The COLREGS Guide - Seventh Edition

This book uses photographs and computer graphics to define the meaning of navigation lights for different kinds of ships in. It also illustrates how to apply navigation lighting, using a top view and a view from the bridge of the vessel concerned.

The book is a useful tool for study at all levels of marine training. It is also suitable for sailors of pleasure craft, who can use it to learn the meaning and content of navigation lights and apply them to their own vessels.

History of collision regulations

Part A: General

Rule 1: Application

Rule 2: Responsibility

Rule 3: General Definitions

Part B: Steering and Sailing Rules

Section I. Conduct of Vessels in any Condition of Visibility

Rule 4: Application

Rule 5: Look-Out

Rule 6: Safe Speed

Rule 7: Risk of Collision

Rule 8: Action to Avoid Collision

Rule 9: Narrow Channels

Rule 10: Traffic Separation Schemes

Section II. Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rule 11: Application

Rule 12: Sailing Vessels

Rule 13: Overtaking

Rule 14: Head-on Situation

Rule 15: Crossing Situation

Rule 16: Action by Give-way Vessel

Rule 17: Action by Stand-on Vessel

Rule 18: Responsibilities between Vessels

Section III. Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

Rule 19: Conduct of vessels in Restricted Visibility

Part C: Light and Shapes

Rule 20: Application

Rule 21: Definitions

Rule 22: Visibility of Lights

Rule 23: Power-driven Vessels Underway

Rule 24: Towing and Pushing

Rule 25: Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels under Oars

Rule 26: Fishing Vessels

Rule 27: Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in their Ability to Manoeuvre

Rule 28: Vessels Constrained by their Draught

Rule 29: Pilot Vessels

Rule 30: Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground

Rule 31: Seaplanes

Part D + E + F

Part D Sound and light signals

Rule 32: Definitions

Rule 33: Equipment for Sound Signals

Rule 34: Manoeuvring and Warning Signals

Rule 35: Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility

Rule 36: Signals to Attract Attention

Rule 37: Distress Signals

Part E Exemptions

Rule 38: Exemptions

Part F Verification of compliance with the provisions of the convention

Rule 39: Definitions

Rule 40: Application

Rule 41: Verification of compliance

Annexes

Annex I: Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes

Annex II: Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels Fishing in Close Proximity

Annex III: Technical Details of Sound Signal Appliances

Annex IV: Distress Signals

Abilities and limitations of some ship types

1. Dredgers

2. Fishing vessels

3. Large oil or ore carriers

4. Fast vessels

5. Sailing yachts

Bridge instruments as ‘available means’

1. Radar

2. AIS, VHF

Research report MAIB