COLREG 1972

Rule 1 — Application

Rules apply to all vessels on the high seas and connected waters navigable by seagoing vessels.

Rule 2 — Responsibility

Owner, master and crew must comply with these Rules. Due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation.

Rule 3 — General Definitions

Defines: vessel, power-driven vessel, sailing vessel, restricted visibility, underway, way, seaplane.

Rule 5 — Look-out

Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing.

Rule 6 — Safe Speed

Every vessel shall proceed at safe speed considering visibility, traffic density, maneuverability, draught.

Rule 7 — Risk of Collision

Risk assumed if bearing does not appreciably change. Use all available means to determine risk.

Rule 8 — Action to Avoid Collision

Action shall be positive, made in ample time, result in passing at safe distance. Changes shall be readily apparent.

Rule 9 — Narrow Channels

Keep as near to outer limit of starboard side as safe and practicable.

Rule 10 — Traffic Separation Schemes

Proceed in appropriate traffic lane in general direction of traffic flow for that lane.

Rule 13 — Overtaking

Overtaking vessel shall keep clear of vessel being overtaken until finally past and clear.

Rule 14 — Head-on Situation

When two power-driven vessels meet head-on, each shall alter course to starboard.

Rule 15 — Crossing Situation

Vessel which has the other on her starboard side shall keep out of the way.

Rule 16 — Action by Give-way Vessel

Take early and substantial action to keep well clear.

Rule 17 — Action by Stand-on Vessel

Maintain course and speed until clear that give-way vessel not taking sufficient action.

Rule 18 — Responsibilities Between Vessels

Power-driven underway keeps clear of: vessels not under command, restricted in ability to maneuver, fishing, sailing.

Rule 20 — Application of Lights

Rules apply from sunset to sunrise. May also be exhibited in restricted visibility.

Rule 22 — Visibility of Lights

Masthead: 6–12nm. Sidelights: 2–3nm. Stern/towing light: 3nm. All-round: 2–3nm. Depends on vessel length.

Rule 23 — Power-Driven Vessel Underway

Masthead light forward, second masthead light aft and higher (if 50m+), sidelights, sternlight.

Rule 25 — Sailing Vessels Underway

Sidelights and sternlight. Black cone point downwards when also under engine.

Rule 26 — Fishing Vessels

Trawling: green over white all-round. Not trawling: red over white all-round.

Rule 34 — Manoeuvring and Warning Signals

1 short = altering course to starboard. 2 short = altering to port. 3 short = operating astern. 5 short = danger/doubt.

Rule 35 — Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility

Power-driven vessel making way: one prolonged blast every 2 min. Not making way: two prolonged blasts every 2 min.

Rule 37 — Distress Signals

Refers to Annex IV — flares, SOS, MAYDAY, orange smoke, arms raised and lowered, EPIRB.