COLREG Rule 10 – Traffic Separation Schemes (TSS)

Traffic Separation Schemes are designed to organize vessel movements in busy sea lanes and reduce the risk of collisions. COLREG Rule 10 requires vessels to navigate in accordance with the established traffic flow and follow the rules of the scheme.

Proceed in the general direction of traffic flow.

Keep within the appropriate traffic lane whenever practicable.

Enter or leave a traffic lane at a small angle, as close to 90 as practicable.

Avoid crossing traffic lanes unless necessary; when crossing, do so at right angles to minimize time in the lane.

Follow all VTS instructions, navigation warnings, and charted TSS information.

Maintain a proper lookout and continuously monitor radar, AIS, ECDIS, and visual traffic.

️ Golden Rule: Stay in your lane, follow the traffic flow, and take early action to avoid close-quarters situations. Safe navigation in a TSS depends on discipline, awareness, and compliance with COLREG Rule 10.

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