Situation

A local youth regatta has three classes competing in the same racing area. The classes are Optimist, Laser 4.7 and Bic Techno 293.

The sailing instructions states:

'The regatta will be governed by the rules as defined in the 2013 - 2016 Racing Rules of Sailing, including Appendix B for boards.'

During a race, two inside overlapped boards on starboard tack and an outside Laser 4.7 on port tack approach a leeward mark to be rounded to port.
 

Question

How does rule 18 apply between these three 'boats'?

Answer

Appendix B contains windsurfing competition rules that apply to windsurfing races. The appendix changes many racing rules, including rule 18. Rule 14 is not changed.

Between the overlapped boards, rule 18, as changed by Appendix B, applies. Many of the changes to rule 18 in Appendix B are to allow for the fact that there is no zone around marks when Appendix B applies. Instead, Appendix B retains a windsurfing definition of ‘about to round or pass'.

Appendix B applies only between windsurfers. When boards meet a boat, the unchanged rule 18 applies between each board and the boat.

Neither Appendix B nor the sailing instruction requires the Laser to comply with any of the rules in Appendix B, but see also definition Room.

The definition Room makes it clear that in the situation described, the outside boat (Laser) must give room for the boards to comply with their obligations under the rules of Part 2 and rule 31, while manoeuvring promptly in a seamanlike way. Appendix B rules B2 Changes to the Rules of Part 2 are all rules of Part 2.

Note that organizing races where boards and boats may meet should be avoided if possible. It may create confusion when (as in this question) they are sailing under different rules. In addition, their different characteristics create a risk of collision, damage and injury.