version française

back to RRS illustrated index

R13 EXPLAINED

• définitions :
  - Tacking : a boat is tacking when changing tacks by going through a head-to-wind position.
  

explanations :
A boat that is tacking loses all her privileges until she becomes close-hauled on the new tack.
Note that this rule only implies a heading (close-hauled), not a movement. As per call 17, a boat is not constrained by rule 13 when she is on a close-hauled course, regardless of her speed / movement and sails setting.  ie, you do not have to me moving for 13 to cease to apply, only get on a close-hauled heading.
In the illustrations below, Yellow is tacking and positions itself immediately in the path of Blue which needs to change course to avoid contact.  Regardless of Yellow’s original and intended position after the tack (eg, having or gaining starboard privileges), Yellow is violating 13 and must be penalized.

This rule takes precedence over rules 10, 11 and 12.  As will often be the case with RRS, a rule is often ignored if another rule with a “higher number” is activated.
This rule explains why when under rule 11, a leeward board can only luff up to head-to-wind.  If the leeward boat luffs beyond this heading the rules consider she is tacking; 13 then takes precedence over 11.

When two boats are submitted to 13 at the same time (eg, tacking at the same time, or side by side head to wind in a Match Race prestart), the boat on the port side of the other boat must stay clear.

           

tactical aspects of the rule :
- By using this rule one can prevent an opponent from tacking.  In the illustrations above, Blue is in a position to control Yellow’s course, including way beyond laylines: Blue is controlling Yellow.  Blue can maintain this strong position even if slightly behind Yellow.

• implementation in vsk3 :
  R13 is by and large well managed in VSK3.  Remember that to get out of 13, you need to move up to close-hauled (important in Match Racing dial up situations).
  Once out of rule 13 limitations, it is worth remembering that the tacking boat, if on a starboard tack, is immediately under 15 and 16 which further limit its options right out of the tack.

bye rafat - translation bye amic.