‍ COLREGS Rules 13, 14 & 15

🕵🏻 International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972

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• Core Principles

Safety of life at sea | Avoid collisions | Know the rules | Good seamanship

🟢 RULE 13 – OVERTAKING

Definition

A vessel is overtaking when approaching another more than 22.5° abaft her beam.

Responsibilities

• Overtaking Vessel (A): Give-way vessel → Must keep out of the way at all times.
• Overtaken Vessel (B): Stand-on vessel → Maintain course & speed.

Memory Tip

The vessel coming from behind always gives way.

🔵 RULE 14 – HEAD-ON SITUATION

Definition

Two power-driven vessels meet on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses.

Responsibilities

• Both vessels: Alter course to starboard → Pass port-to-port.
• No stand-on vessel – both share responsibility.

Memory Tip

Red to Red, Port to Port.

🔴 RULE 15 – CROSSING SITUATION

Definition

Two power-driven vessels cross with risk of collision.

Responsibilities

• Vessel on the other’s starboard side: Give-way vessel → Alter course to starboard, pass astern of the other vessel.
• Vessel on the other’s port side: Stand-on vessel → Maintain course & speed.

Memory Tip

If the vessel is on your starboard side, you give way.

📋 Quick Summary Table

Rule Situation Give-Way Vessel Stand-On Vessel Required Action

13 Overtaking Overtaking vessel Vessel being overtaken Overtaker keeps clear; pass safely

14 Head-on Both vessels None Both turn starboard; pass port-to-port

15 Crossing Vessel on your starboard side Vessel on your port side Give-way vessel turns starboard & passes astern

💡 Important Reminders

• Always maintain a proper lookout
• Take early, substantial action to avoid collision
• Use all available means: VHF, sound signals, lights
• Good seamanship + COLREGS = Safe voyage

🚦 Night Lights Reference

Situation Lights Observed

Head-on Masthead light + both sidelights

Crossing Masthead light + right/left sidelight

Overtaking Stern light only of the vessel ahead