Petey,

While most rules do apply universaly during starts, there are some exceptions with regard to how the pin and the committee boat are considered. Most everything else applies (overtaking boat, windward, leeward, port starboard, overlap, etc.). I really can't recommend enough to join US Sailing and get a rule book (it's included with the minimal membership cost). There's only like 12 pages of boat to boat racing rules and while some of it does take some consideration, it's not all that complicated. When something comes into question we circle the chairs in the evening around a few bears and read and discuss the rule in question.