I.R.P.C.SThe International Regulations for

the Prevention of Collisions at Sea - Collision Regs(Rules of the Road)

LOOK-OUT• It is the duty of everybody on board to maintain a proper

look-out at all times to avoid the risk of collision.

• By Sight, Sound and all available means (VHF, Radar, AIS etc).

RISK OF COLLISSION• Use all means to determine if a risk of collision exists. If you’re

in any doubt, a risk is deemed to exist.

When is there a risk of collision?

- If the direction (compass bearing) of the approaching vessel does not change significantly.

AVOIDING A COLLISSION• Any action to avoid a collision should be made in ample time

and with regard to good seamanship.

• Any change of course and / or speed to avoid a collision should be large enough to be apparent to another vessel.

• Actions should be positive, obvious and made in good time.

NARROW CHANNELS• A vessel proceeding or traveling along a narrow channel must

keep to starboard (to the right).

• Small vessels or Sailing vessels must not impede larger vessels.

• A vessel must not cross the channel if doing so will impede another vessel traveling in the channel.

•Overtaking should only take place if the two vessels are in agreement of the overtaking.

• Strictly no anchoring in a narrow channel.

SAILING VESSELS

OVERTAKING• The overtaking vessel must keep clear of the stand-on vessel.

• The overtaking vessel must not impede the stand-on vessel.

• A vessel is deemed to be overtaking if abaft her beam or if, at night, only the stern light or steaming light of that vessel can be seen and not the side lights (nav lights).

HEAD-ON SITUATION• If two vessels are in a head-on situation which has any risk of

collision both vessels must make a clear turn to starboard so that each passes port to port.

• If in any doubt assume that there is a risk of collision and turn to starboard. Remember to make your intentions clear.

• Remember go right and you can’t go wrong.

CROSSING•When two vessels are crossing and there is a risk of collision

the vessel which has the other on her starboard side should give way and avoid crossing ahead of the other vessel.

GIVE WAY VESSEL• Every vessel which is directed to keep clear of another vessel

will take early action to keep well clear.

STAND-ON VESSEL• The stand-on vessel must keep a constant course and speed.

• The stand-on vessel may take action to avoid a collision if the other vessel is not taking the necessary actions.

RESPONSIBILITY• A power-driven vessel shall keep out of the way of :

- A vessel not under command.

- A vessel restricted in ability to manoeuvre.

- A vessel engaged in fishing.

- A sailing vessel.

• Remember N.U.C - R.A.M - FISH - SAIL.

SUMMARY• Narrow Channel : Do not impede any vessel which requires

the depth of water available in the narrow channel.

• Sailing Vessels : Be aware of the Rules for Sailing vessels.

• Overtaking : Do not impede any vessel you are overtaking.

• Head-On Situation : Both vessels turn to starboard.

• Crossing Situation : Give way to traffic on the right.

• Give Way Vessel : Take early action. Stand-On : Keep your course and speed constant.