Fundamentals: Avoid collisions whenever possible.

1. Opposite Tacks: Starboard has the right of way.

2. Same Tack: Leeward or clear ahead have the right of way.

3. Changing Tacks Boats tacking or jibing keep clear.

4. Limits: Right-of-way boats changing course or when gaining right of way must at first give others room to keep clear.

5. Giving Room Except at a starting mark surrounded by navigable water, outside boats must give room to those inside at a mark or obstruction.

6. At windward marks, Rule 1 (not Rule 5) applies to boats beating on opposite tacks.