Rules 1–41 & Annexes

The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), summarized rule by rule in plain language.

Rule 1 – Application

Rule 2 – Responsibility

Rule 3 – General Definitions

Rule 4 – Application (Steering & Sailing)

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

Rule 11 – Application (Conduct in Sight)

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

Rule 19 – Conduct in Restricted Visibility

Rule 20 – Application (Lights & Shapes)

Rule 21 – Definitions (Lights)

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 NUC or RAM

Rule 28 – Vessels Constrained by Draught

Rule 29 – Pilot Vessels

Rule 30 – Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground

Rule 31 – Seaplanes

Rule 32 – Definitions (Sound)

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

Rule 38 – Exemptions

Rule 39 – Definitions (Verification of Compliance)

Rule 40 – Application (Verification of Compliance)

Rule 41 – Verification of Compliance

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

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