Module 007 COLLISION REGULATION

COLLISION REGULATIONS
The goal of this training Module is to improve and test the knowledge of the
student regarding the “RULES of the ROAD” on purpose of the International
Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea, including situations seen from
sailing vessels and other kind of vessels.
HISTORY
Before modern standardization, quartermasters were advised to follow the rotation of the bottom of the
wheel. Thus, when obeying a "hard a-starboard" command, the QM would turn the bottom of the wheel to
the right, or starboard. This applied the left rudder and the ship turned to its left, or to port. Steering with
the bottom of the wheel was apparently an approved way to learn helming more than a century ago.
The nautical reason for a "hard a-starboard" command to turn left seems related to the tiller and not the
rudder. A tiller is pushed to the right, or starboard, to apply left rudder and turn the vessel to the left.
Right-of-way for other vessel.
Vessels at sea do not actually have any "right of way"—they may be, correctly, in the position of being the
"stand on vessel" or the "give way" vessel. Therefore, at no time should any vessel actually navigate its
way into a collision, and the regulations are clear that no one in command of a vessel may assume a
"right of way" up to a point of collision.
Consider two ships on courses that intersect. The ordinary rule is that the ship on the left must 'give way'.
The stand on vessel (right)sees the green light on the starboard (right) side of the ship on the left i.e.,
'give way vessel' (left). The 'give way vessel' (left) sees the red light on the port side of the 'stand on
vessel' (right). If the courses are intersecting, the helmsman usually gives way to a red light by going
around the stern of the stand on vessel.
There are other rules governing which is a stand on vessel, such as the wind based rules for sailing
vessels, powered ships giving way to sailing ships, and all other ships giving way to powered vessels that
are constrained by their draft or restricted in their ability to maneuver. Therefore the green light does not
mean an unqualified go, but rather it means proceed with caution subject to other rules applying. The
earliest railway signals went red/green/white (as per the stern light) for stop/caution/go following this naval
practice and were only later changed to the more familiar red/yellow/green.
The very simple application of red light and green light is to remember the Ditty "If to starboard red
appear, tis your duty to keep clear" meaning that if the helmsman sees a red light on his starboard side he
is the Give Way vessel.
HISTORY
Starboard (right)
The origin of the term starboard comes from early boating practices. Before ships
had rudders on their centrelines, they were steered by use of a specialized steering oar. This
oar was held by an oarsman located in the stern(back) of the ship. However, similar to now,
there were many more right-handed sailors than left-handed sailors. This meant that the
steering oar (which had been broadened to provide better control) used to be affixed to the
right side of the ship. The word starboard comes from Old English steorbord, literally
meaning the side on which the ship is steered, descendant from the Old
Norse words stýri meaning "rudder" (from the verb stýra, literally "being at the helm", "having
a hand in") and borð meaning etymologically "board", then the "side of a ship".
Port (left)
An early version of "port" is larboard, which itself derives from Middle-English ladebord via
corruption in the 16th century by association with starboard. The term larboard, when
shouted in the wind, was presumably too easy to confuse with starboard and so the
word port came to replace it. Port is derived from the practice of sailors mooring ships on the
left side at ports in order to prevent the steering oar from being crushed.
Larboard continued to be used well into the 1850s by whalers, despite being long
superseded by "port" in the merchant vessel service at the time. "Port" was not officially
adopted by the Royal Navy until 1844 (Ray Parkin, H. M. Bark Endeavour). Robert FitzRoy,
Captain of Darwin's HMS Beagle, is said to have taught his crew to use the term port instead
of larboard, thus propelling the use of the word into the Naval Services vocabulary.
The sailing rule that dictates that a sailing vessel on starboard tack is the stand on vessel is as old as any
other regulation. Likewise, if on the same tack, a sailing vessel that is upwind of another is the give way
vessel.
Mnemonic devices
There are a number of tricks used to remember which side port and starboard each refer to:
• A ship that is out on the ocean has "left port".
•The sailor left port with a red nose.
• Port and left both contain four letters.
• "Port wine is red; so is the port light."
• "Port is not right for children" (Port wine is red and not being "right for children" is therefore "left".)
• The phrase "Any red port left in the can?" can be a useful reminder. It breaks down as follows:
•The drink port is a fortified red wine—which links the word "port" with the color red, used for
navigational lights (see below).
•"Left" comes from the phrase and so port must be on the left.
•The reference to "can" relates to the fact that port-hand buoys are "can"-shaped.
• A variation on the above is "Two drops of red port left in the bottle."
• Another variation: "Port is the red wine that is left in the glass."
• The common abbreviation P.S. (for English postscript, derived from Latin post scriptum) can be viewed
as port ("left") and starboard ("right").
• "Star light, star bright, starboard is to the right."
• "There is no red port wine left".
• Terms referring to the right side are longer words ("starboard", "right", and "green"), while terms referring
to the other side are shorter words ("port", "left", and "red").
• Starboard contains two letter "R"s, compared to only one in port; therefore, starboard refers to the right
side.
• In countries that drive on the left side of the road: If someone is drinking Port, they should be on the
passenger side; the "star" of the boat, or person who is in control of the boat, is on the driver's side.
• Port and starboard are in alphabetical order, which can be associated in European languages with
reading from left to right. So they are in the same order as reading text. Left and right are in the same
order.
Responsibility
Nothing in these rules shall interfere with the

operation of special rules made by an appropriate
authority
Nothing in these rules can release any vessel, owner

, master or crew from the responsibility to comply
and follows these rules.
The only situation when these rules can be deviated

from is from avoiding immediate danger.
Part A - General
Rule 1 - Application
Rule 2 - Responsibility
Rule 3 – General Definition
Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules
SECTION I – Conduct of Vessel 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 Channel

Rule 10 – Traffic Separation Scheme
SECTION II – Conduct of Vessel in Sight of One Another
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 – Responsibility Between Vessels
SECTION III – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility
Rule 19 – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility

Part C – Lights and Shapes
Rule 21 – Definitions
Rule 22 – Visibility of Lights
Rule 23 – Power-Driven Vessels Underway
Rule 24 – Towing and Pushing
Rule 25 – Sailing Vessels Under-way and Vessels under Oars
Rule 26 – Fishing Vessels
Rule 27 – Vessels Not Under Command and Vessels
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 – Sea Planes
Part D – Sounds and Lights 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
Annex I – Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and

Shapes
Annex II – Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels in Close Proximity
Annex III – Technical Details for Sounds Signal Appliances
Annex IV – Distress Signals

RULE 3 VESSEL
(a) The word VESSEL includes every
description of water craft, including
non-displacement crafts WIG craft
and seaplanes, used or capable of
being used as a means of
transportation in the water.
RULE 3 POWER DRIVEN VESSEL
(b) The term Power Driven vessel
means any vessel propelled by
machinery.
RULE 3 SAILING VESSEL
(c) The term Sailing Vessel
means and vessel under sail
provided that propelling
machinery, if fitted, is not
being used.
RULE 3 FISHING VESSELS
(d) Vessel engaged in fishing
means any vessel fishing with nets,
lines, trawls or other fishing
apparatus which restricts
manoeuvrability, but does not
include a vessel fishing with
trolling lines or other fishing
apparatus which does not restrict
manoeuvrability.
RULE 3 SEAPLANES
(e) The word Seaplane includes
any aircraft designed to
manoeuvre on the water
RULE 3 VESSEL NOT UNDER COMMAND
(f) The term vessel not under
command means a vessel,
which through some
exceptional circumstances is
unable to manoeuvre as
required by these Rules and is
therefore unable to keep out of
the way of another vessel.
RULE 3 RESTRICTED IN HER ABILITY TO MANOEUVRE
(g) The term vessel
Restricted in her Ability
to manoeuvre means a
vessel, which from the
nature of her work is
restricted in her ability to
manoeuvre as required
by these Rules and is
therefore unable to keep
out of the way of another
vessel.
RULE 3 VESSEL CONSTRAINED BY HER DRAUGHT
(h) The term vessel constrained by her Draught means a power-driven
vessel, which because of her draught in relation to the available depth
of the water and width of navigable water is severely restricted in her
ability to deviate from the course she is following.
RULE 3 LENGTH AND DREADTH
(j) The word LENGTH
and BREADTH of a
vessel means her
length overall and
greatest breadth.
RULE 3 UNDERWAY
(i) Means that the vessel is not at anchor, or made fast to the shore, or
aground
RULE 3 VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER
(k) Vessel shall be deemed to be
IN SIGHT ON ONE ANOTHER only
when one can be observed
visually from one another.
RULE 3 RESTRICTED VISIBILITY
(l) The term RESTRICTED VISIBILITY
means any condition in which
visibility is restricted by fog, mist,
falling snow, heavy rainstorms,
sandstorms or any other similar
causes.
RULE 3 WING-IN-GROUND (WIG)
The term Wing -In- Ground (WIG) craft
means a multimodal craft which, in its
operational mode, flies in close
proximity to the surface by utilizing
surface-effect action
RULE 5 LOOK OUT
All vessels shall at all times maintain a proper Look Out by sight and
hearing and by means of all available means appropriate in the prevailing
circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the
situation and of the risk of collision.
RULE 6 SAFE SPEED
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at safe speed so that it can take
proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stooped within
distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
RULE 6 SAFE SPEED
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among taken
into account
(a) By all vessels
• STATE OF VISIBILITY
• TRAFFIC DENSITY
• MANOEUVRABILITY OF
THE VESSEL
• BACKGROUND LIGHTS
• STATE OF THE WIND,SEA

AND CURRENT
• DRAUGHT OF THE
VESSEL
RULE 6 SAFE SPEED
(b) By Vessels with operational Radar
• The characteristic of the ARPA

• The limitations due to present radar
range
• Radar interferences due to weather

• The possibilities that small vessel ,
or ice may not be detected
• The amount of vessels and their

movements
• The possibility of a more exact

visibility estimate
RULE 7 RISK OF COLLISION
Every vessel should use every
possible means to determine if there
is a possibility of collision, this also
includes Radar
This must be done in advance and

assumptions should not be made on
insufficient information
A risk of collision should be

considered if the bearing of the other
vessel is not changing.
If the other vessel is closed and a

large size, the risk of collision may still
exist although the bearing is
changing.
RULE 8 ACTIONS TO AVOID COLLISION
All actions for avoiding a collision such as
altering of course, speed or a combination of
both, shall if possible be distinct and formed
in a good time.
If there is a sufficient sea room an alteration

of course may be best the most effective
action.
The result of the action shall be monitored

until the other vessel is finally clear.
If more time is needed to assess the

situation, reduce speed or stop.
A vessel with a “right of way” must also take

action if no measures are taken from the
other vessel and the risk of collision is
imminent.
RULE 8 ACTIONS TO AVOID COLLISION
In a case of a head-on situation
between 2 power-driven vessel, both
shall alter course to starboard, if
there is doubt about the situation, it
shall be assumed that it is a head
on.
RULE 13 OVERTAKING SITUATION
If the vessel is approaching another
vessel from behind, within the theoretical
sector of the forward vessel’s stern light,
it is considered an overtaking vessel, it
must give way in all circumstances until
the other vessel is finally passed and
clear.
135º
RULE 15 CROSSING SITUATION
In a case of a crossing situation between 2
power-driven vessels, the one that has the
other on its starboard side shall give way
and avoid ahead of her.
When a vessel has the obligation to give

way, it shall do it in good time as distinctly
as possible.
RULE 17 ACTION BY STAND-ON VESSELS
The vessel with right of way – or stand-
on vessel – shall maintain its course
and speed.
However, when it is clear that the Give-

way vessel is either not taking any
actions or not doing enough for
preventing a collision, then the “stand-
on” vessel must act.
In such a situation, the “ stand-on”

vessel shall not alter course to port.
RULE 9 NARROW CHANNEL
In a narrow channel, keep as close as
possible to starboard.
The vessel less than 20m and sailing
vessels shall not hamper the passage
larger vessels.
A vessel engage in fishing shall
impede another vessel navigating in a
narrow channel
A vessel crossing a narrow channel
shall not impede another vessel
navigating in the channel.
‘Lights, shapes and sound signals”
from section 2 for proper signal shall
be given in a narrow channel
Navigate with caution when
approaching such a bend of which the
area behind is obscured and AVOID
ANCHORING IN A NARROW
CHANNEL
RULE 10 TRAFFIC SEPARATION SCHEME
When navigating in a traffic separation lane
follow its direction and if practicable, keep clear
from the separation zone or line.
When joining or leaving the entrance from the

sides the “attack angle” should be as close to
the lane as possible.
If crossing the lane is unavoidable, it shall be

done at an angle close to 90º as possible to the
lane.
Vessel of 20m or more are recommended to use
available traffic lanes instead of inshore traffic
zones, but vessels under 20m and sailing vessel
may in all circumstances use the inshore traffic
zones.
Entering the separation zone is only allowed

when crossing, joining or leaving the lane, in
case of emergency or when fishing inside the
zone is intended.
Navigating at the ends of the separation should

be performed with caution.
RULE 10 TRAFFIC SEPARATION SCHEME
Anchoring in a traffic separation
scheme near its termination should be
avoided.
Vessels that are not using the scheme

shall avoid it by as wide margin as
practicable
Vessel engage in fishing shall not

impede other traffic.
Vessel with a length of less than 20m

and sailing vessels shall not impede
other traffic.
Vessels that are engaged in

maintenance or in underwater work,
with restricted manoeuvrability may
carry out the operations at their own
will.
RULE 18 RESPONSIBILITIES BETWEEN VESSELS
Any vessel other than a vessel not under
command or a vessel restricted in her ability
to manoeuvre shall, if the circumstances of
the c se case allows, avoid impeding the
safe passage of a vessel constrained by her
draught.
A seaplane on the water shall, in general,

keep clear of all vessels and avoid impeding
their navigation, in circumstances, however,
where the risk of collision exists, vessels are
also obliged to take actions.
A power driven vessel underway
shall keep clear out of the way of
• A vessel not under command

• A vessel Restricted in her Ability to
manoeuvre
• A vessel engaged in fishing
• A sailing vessel
A Sailing vessel underway shall
keep clear out of the way of

manoeuvre
• A vessel engaged in fishing
A Fishing vessel when underway
shall so far as possible shall keep
clear out of the way of:

manoeuvre
RULE 19 CONDUCT OF VESSEL IN RESTRICTED VISIBILITY
When navigating in or near an area of
restricted visibility:
• adjust speed for prevailing visibility

and have engines ready to manoeuvre
• when detecting another vessel by
radar,
and risk of collision exist, the following
actions should be avoided.
• turn to port for a vessel forward of the
beam, except when overtaking.
• turn towards a vessel abeam or abaft
the
beam.
• In case of uncertainty of another
vessels movement and if a fog signal is
RULE 20 DEFINITIONS OF LIGHTS
Lights and shapes are to be complied with in all weather. It should be
displayed from sun set to sunrise and in restricted visibility.
Shapes must be display during daytime, and sound signal must be sounded
when needed in restricted visibility.
Masthead/Range Light: WHITE Light visible at 225º
at the bow
Port-Side Lights: RED Light visible at 112.5º

on the Left side of the bow
Stbd-Side Lights: GREEN Light visible at 112.5º
on the Right side of the bow
Stern Light: WHITE Light visible at 135º at the stern
Towing Light: YELLOW Light visible at 135º at the stern
Signal Lights: RED, GREEN or WHITE 360º

all-round lights
Flashing Lights: YELLOW, RED or BLUE ;

360º all-round lights with 120 flashes per minute
RULE 21 DEFINITIONS OF LIGHTS
The rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to sunrise and
during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot be
mistaken for the lights specified or do not impair the visibility or distinctive character,
interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out.
MHL – Masthead Light - 225º - WHITE
SL - Side Light - 112.5º - RED / GREEN
AL - Stern Light - 135º - WHITE
TL - Towing Light - 135º - YELLOW
ARL – All Round Light - 360º - W, G, R, Y
FL – 120 flashes /min - 360º - YELLOW
LENGTH of VESSEL MHL SL AL TL ARL
50m or More 6 3 3 3 3
20m - < 50m 5 2 2 2 2
12m - < 20m 5 2 2 2 2
< 20m 2 1 2 2 2
RULE 20 DEFINITIONS OF SHAPES
Shapes shall be black and of the following Sizes & Spacing
DISTANCE BETWEEN
SHAPES
NOT LESS CONE
BALL THAN 0.6m
NOT LESS NOT LESS

THAN 0.6m THAN 0.6m
NOT LESS
THAN 1.5m
NOT LESS
THAN 2X
THE
CYLINDER DIAMETER
DIAMOND
NOT LESS NOT LESS

THAN 0.6m THAN 0.6m
RULE 33 EQUIPMENT FOR SOUND SIGNALS
• a vessel of 12 meters or more in length shall be provided with a
whistle
• A vessel of 20 meters or more shall be provided with a bell in

addition to a whistle
• A vessel of 100 meters, shall in addition be provided with a

gong in which the tone and sound of which cannot be
confused of that of a bell. The bell and gong shall comply
with specification in Annex III, the bell or gong or both may
be replaced by other equipment having the same respective
sounds characteristics, provided that manual sounding of
the required signals shall always be possible.
• a vessel of less that 12 meters in length shall not be obliged

to carry the sound signaling appliances prescribed, but shall
be provided by some other means of making a efficient
sound signal.
RULE 34 MANOEUVRING AND WARNING SIGNALS
• 1 short blast or sound signal means;
I AM ALTERING COURSE TO STBD.

I AM ALTERING COURSE TO PORT

I AM OPERATING ASTERN PROPULSION
• 1 Long blast or sound signal means;

KEEP CLEAR OF ME
NOTE
When the vessel would like to attract the
attention of another vessel, it can give light or
sound signal that cannot be mistaken with
any other signal described in the “RULES OF
THE ROAD”
RULE 34 MANOEUVRING AND WARNING SIGNALS
2 prolonged followed by 1 short “G” from a
vessel from behind each other means;
I AM OVERTAKING ON YOUR STARBOARD
SIDE.
2 prolonged followed by 2 short “Z” from a

vessel from behind each other means;
I AM OVERTAKING ON YOUR PORT SIDE.
The vessel ahead of the signaling vessel

answers with a 1 long; 1 short; 1 long; 1 short
signal for approval. “C”
5 short signals or more for showing doubt to

such actions.
RULE 23 POWER DRIVEN VESSEL OVER 50m
Lights at Night
2 Masthead Light, port and
Starboard Side Lights and
Stern Light
Restricted Visibility
When making Way in the Water
1 Long Signal ( ) at intervals
of not more than 2 minutes.
When not making Way in the Water

2 Long Signal ( ) at
intervals of not more than
2 minutes.
RULE 23 POWER DRIVEN VESSEL BETWEEN 12 & 50m
Lights at Night
Vessel under 50m are not required
to have 2 Masthead Light, but

may show Port and
StarboardSide Lights and Stern
Light
1 Long Signal ( ) at intervals
of not more than 2 minutes.
When not making Way in the Water

2 Long Signal ( ) at
intervals of not more than
2 minutes.
RULE 23 POWER DRIVEN VESSEL BETWEEN 7 &12m
Lights at Night
These may just only have an All-
Round Light but can also show
Side Lights if possible.
if speed is under 7 knots, the

vessel shall exhibit an All-round
white light, but can also show
sidelights if possible
RULE 23 Air-Cushion Vessel
Lights at Night
The All-around yellow
flashing light must only be
exhibited by an air cushion
vessel when operating in a non-
displacement mode. The main
purpose of this light is to warn
Hovercraft less than 50m
other vessels that, as the vessel
is in a non-displacement mode,
her navigation lights may gave a
false indication of the direction of
travel. An air cushion vessel is
considered to be a power driven
vessel.
RULE 23 Submarines on Torpedo Exercise
Night
Green Rocket Flares
Daytime
Black Smoke
NUCLEAR EXERCISE (NIGHT TIME)
NOTE
DO NOT PASS LESS THAN
1000m ON EITHER SIDE
RULE 24 TUG and TOW
Lights at Night
3 Masthead Lights in a vertical line (if
length of tow is more than 200m), Side Lights
and Stern Lights. And 1 Yellow Towing Light
If the towing vessel is more than 50m
additional Masthead Light is required.
The vessel being towed shall exhibit Side

Lights and stern Lights only
Day Time
A Diamond where it can best be seen.
The vessel being towed shall also display a
diamond shape
1 Long Signal followed by 2 short
blast at intervals of not more than
2 minutes.
The vessel being towed shall sound 1 long
followed by 3 short blast in response to the tug
RULE 24 TUG and TOW and OTHER SITUATIONS
Lights at Night
3 Masthead Lights in a
vertical line (if length of tow is
more than 200m), Side Lights
and Stern Lights. And 1 Yellow Towing vessel more than 50m and length of tow more than 200m
Towing Light
If the towing vessel is more than
50m additional Masthead Light
is required.
The vessel being towed shall

exhibit Side Lights and stern
Lights only
Towing vessel less than 50m and length of tow less than 200m
Day Time
A Diamond where it can best
be seen.
also display a diamond shape
Restricted Visibility Vessel being Towed shall exhibit Side

1 Long Signal followed by 2 lights and Stern Lights only
short blast at intervals of not
more than 2 minutes.

sound 1 long followed by 3
short blast in response to the
tug
RULE 24 PARTLY SUBMERGE TOW UNDER 100M
If the breadth is less than 25m
1 All-round WHITE light near the forward end and 1 at the aft end
If the breadth is more than 25m
Plus 2 additional All-round white light at the extremities of its breadth.
Day Time
One Diamond shape near the Aft end of the last barge
RULE 24 PARTLY SUBMERGE TOW MORE THAN 100M
If the breadth is less than 25m
1 All-round WHITE light near the forward end and 1 at the aft end. Plus additional
All-round light fore and aft of the middle barge. So that the distance between the
lights is maximum 100 meters.
If the breadth is more than 25m

Plus additional All-round light fore and aft of the middle barge. 2 additional All-
round white light at the extremities of its breadth.
If it is impossible to put any lights on the object, the towing vessel must
illuminate the tow with a search light.
Day Time
One Diamond shape near the Aft end of the last barge. If the towing vessel is
longer than 200 meters, an additional diamond shape near the fore end.
RULE 24 PUSHING AND TOWING ALONGSIDE
Lights at Night
2 Masthead Lights in a
vertical line, If the towing vessel Power driven vessel towing alongside excluding
is more than 50m additional
Masthead Light is required. composite unit less than 200m in length
Lights only
Vessel being Towed shall exhibit Side lights and Stern Lights
only
1 Long Signal followed by
2 short blast at intervals of
not more than 2 minutes.
RULE 24 TOWING OVER 200m & RESTRICTED TO MANUEVER
Lights at Night
3 Masthead Lights (if vessel
towing is more than 50m) 1 aft
masthead light.
1 Yellow Towing Light
High intensity Light Flashing Morse Signal “U”
RED-WHITE-RED signal lights

Lights only. Seismic vessel Towing
streamer, length of tow
Day Time exceeds 200m could extend
A Diamond where it can best 8 kms.
be seen.
BALL-DIAMOND-BALL shapes
Towing vessel more than
The vessel being towed shall 50m, tow exceeds 200m and
also display a 1 diamond shape unavailable to alter course
1 Long Signal followed by 2

sound 1 long followed by 3
short blast in response to the
tug
RULE 24 COMPOSITE UNIT TOW
Power driven vessel

pushing in composite unit
shall give signal as an
ordinary power driven vessel.
If more than 50m add
additional Masthead Light.
RULE 25 SAILING VESSEL UNDER 7m and UNDER OARS
Lights at Night
These boats must be equipped
with an electric torch or any
source of light ready to be used in
case of collision.
Lights at Night
Side Lights and Stern Light
Sailing vessel underway can exhibit
additional signal lights Red over
Green at or near the mast.
If motoring, it must exhibit a

masthead light.
Day Time
If the sail is hoisted and using motor,
it must exhibit a cone with apex down
2 minutes.
Lights at Night
If under 20m can combine the side
lights in 1 lantern placed at or
near the mast.
If motoring, it must exhibit a

masthead light.
Day Time
2 minutes.
Lights at Night
If using motor must exhibit 1
masthead Light.
Day Time
2 minutes.
RULE 26 FISHING VESSEL OTHER THAN TRAULING
Lights at Night
RED Signal Light over a WHITE light.
If making way through the water:
Side Lights and Stern Lights.
If the vessel is more than 50m, a additional
masthead Light above and astern of the Red
Signal Light.
If the vessel is an out layer gear extending more

than 150m from the vessel:
1 White light showing the direction of the gear.
Day Time
A shape consisting of 2 cones with there
apexes together.
Or a Basket if the vessel is less than 20m
If the vessel is an out layer gear extending

more than 150m from the vessel:
A cone with the apex upward in the direction of
the gear.
2 minutes.
RULE 26 FISHING VESSEL ENGAGED IN TRAULING
Lights at Night
GREEN Signal Light over a WHITE light.
If the vessel is more than 50m, a additional
masthead Light above and astern of the Red
Signal Light.
If the vessel is an out layer gear extending more

than 150m from the vessel:
1 White light showing the direction of the gear.
Day Time
A shape consisting of 2 cones with there
apexes together.
Or a Basket if the vessel is less than 20m
If the vessel is an out layer gear extending

more than 150m from the vessel:
A cone with the apex upward in the direction of
the gear.
2 minutes.
RULE 27 VESSEL NOT UNDER COMMAND
Lights at Night
The vessel shall have 2 RED
signal in a vertical Line, when
making way through the water Side
Lights and Stern Lights
Day Time
The vessel shall have 2 black balls in a
vertical line where it can best be seen.
2 minutes.
RULE 27 VESSEL RESTRICTED IN HER ABILITY TO MANUEVER
Lights at Night
The vessel shall have RED,
WHITE, RED Signal Lights in a
Vertical Line, when making way
through the water, masthead, Side
Day Time
Ball, Diamond, Ball in a vertical line
where it can best be seen.
2 minutes.
RULE 28 VESSEL CONSTRAINED BY HER DRAUGHT
Lights at Night
The vessel shall have 3 RED,
Signal Light in a Vertical Line, when
making way through the water,
masthead, Side Lights and Stern
Lights
Day Time
A cylinder where it can best be seen.
short blast at intervals of not more
than 2 minutes.
RULE 27 UNDERWATER & DREDGING OPERATIONS
Lights at Night
2 RED All Round Lights where the
obstruction lies
2 GREEN All Round Lights where
safe passage is available
If the vessel is Restricted in Her Ability

to manoeuvre
RED-WHITE-RED in a vertical line
where it can be best seen. If making way
through the water. Masthead light, Side
DANGER SAFE
Lights and Stern Lights.
Day Time
2 BLACK BALLS where the obstruction
lies
2 DIAMONDS where safe passage
available
FLAG ALPHA if there is a diver down

RULE 27i VESSEL ENGAGE IN MINECLEARING OPERATIONS
Lights at Night
In addition to Masthead light,
Side Lights and Stern Lights. 3
GREEN All Round Lights
forming a triangle. If more than
50m in length additional
masthead light is required
Day Time
3 BLACK BALLS forming a
Triangle
NOTE
DO NOT PASS LESS THAN
1000m ON EITHER SIDE
RULE 27h VESSEL ENGAGED IN DIVING OPERATIONS
Lights at Night
If the vessel is not big enough
to show lights and shapes
according to vessel which are
engaged in underwater
operations:
RED-WHITE-RED All-round
lights signal light should be
used in a vertical line where it
can be seen best.
Day Time
A rigid replica of the International Flag
ALPHA not less than 1 meter in height.
Measures previously carried out should
ensure it all round visibility.
RULE 29 VESSEL ENGAGE IN PILOTAGE DUTY
Lights at Night
WHITE Signal Light over a RED
Light.
Day Time
The International Pennant “HOTEL” or
the Pilot Flag.
2 minutes.
NOTE
If the Pilot vessel is not on duty
it must act and signal as
ordinary motor-driven vessel.
RULE 30 VESSEL AT ANCHOR/AGROUND LESS THAN 12m
Lights at Night
1 All-Round White Light
Day Time
1 Black Ball
NOTE
Vessel shorter than 7m are not
obliged to show any light if
they have anchored free away
from fairway, narrow channel or
anchorage.
Grounded vessel with a length

less than 12m are not allowed
to show any lights, shape or to
give any sound signals.
RULE 30 VESSEL AT ANCHOR/AGROUND LESS THAN 50m
Lights at Night
A grounded vessel shall exhibit in
addition “NOT UNDER COMMAND“
2 Red Signal Lights
Day Time
1 Black Ball
A grounded vessel shall exhibit 3 BLACK
BALLS in a vertical line
every minute for a period of 5 sec. The
bell must be rung rapid from the forward
part of the vessel
Grounded vessel shall give 3 separate

and distinct stroke on the bell immediate
before and after the rapid ringing of the
bell
RULE 30 VESSEL AGROUND MORE THAN 50m
Lights at Night
at the stern and at a lower level than the
above: 1 All Round Light
A grounded vessel shall exhibit in addition

“NOT UNDER COMMAND“
2 Red Signal Lights in a vertical line
Day Time
1 Black Ball
part of the vessel

bell
RULE 30 VESSEL AT ANCHOR / AGROUND MORE THAN 100m
Lights at Night
At the stern and at a lower level than the
above: 1 All Round Light and all available
Deck lights
A grounded vessel shall exhibit in addition

“NOT UNDER COMMAND“
2 Red Signal Lights in a vertical line
Day Time
1 Black Ball
part of the vessel
WARNING FOR VESSEL AT ANCHOR
NOTE
Vessel at anchor shall may in
addition to signal to give
warning of her position and of
the possibility of collision to an
approaching vessel
1 short blast;1 prolonged; 1

short
The same signal can also be

done with the signal light.
RULE 23 WING-ON-GROUND (WIG)
Lights at Night
(c) A WIG craft only when
taking off and landing and in
flight near the surface shall, in
addition to the lights
prescribed in paragraph (a) of
this rule exhibit a high
intensity all-round flashing
red light.
RULE 31 Seaplanes exhibits lights of power driven vessel
Lights at Night
A seaplane on the water will exhibit
the light of a power driven vessel of her
length. Seaplanes by very nature of her
construction, will normally have a
“Masthead light” on the Forepart and side
lights on the wingtips when underway on On the Water
the water. A large seaplane at anchor may
have White lights on the wing tips in
addition to white lights forward and Aft.
Air Borne
RULE 27 VESSEL RESTRICTED IN HER ABILITY TO MANUEVER
ENGAGE IN REFUELING OPERATIONS
Lights at Night
The vessel shall have RED,
WHITE, RED Signal Lights in a
Vertical Line, when making way
through the water, masthead, Side
Day Time
Ball, Diamond, Ball in a vertical line
where it can best be seen.
2 minutes.
RULE 23 Submarines
Lights at Night
Submarines may also exhibit an
amber flashing light as an aid to
identification in coastal waters, in
addition to navigational Lights, of a
power driven vessel. This light is
PERISCOPE DEPTH
carried above the Masthead Light,
and forward masthead Light of a
submarine may be at a lower level
than the sidelights
SURFACE
RULE 37 DISTRESS SIGNALS
These signals, used or exhibited together or
separately, indicates distress and need of
assistance.
• a signal made by radiotelegraphy or by

any signalling method consisting of the
group SOS in the Morse code. Or
consisting of the spoken word MAYDAY
or a 2 tone radio telephone alarm signal.
Not mandatory anymore
• approved signals transmitted by radio

communication system
• the International code Signal of distress
by the flag “N” and “C”

• A Gun or explosive signal fired at an

interval of one minute
• A continuous sounding of any fog

signalling apparatus
• A signal consisting of a square flag

having above or below it with a ball or
anything resembling a ball
• Flames on the vessel as from a burning

barrel or drum
• Rocket or shell, throwing red stars fired

one at a time at short intervals
• A rocket parachute flare or a hand flare

showing a red light
• An orange smoke signal
• The radiotelephone alarm signal not

mandatory to watch anymore
• Slowly and repeatedly raising and

lowering outstretched arm to each side
• signals transmitted by EPIRBS

Attention is drawn to the relevant sections

of the International code of Signals, the
merchant Ship Search and Rescue
Manual and the following signals:
• A piece of orange-coloured canvass with

either a black square and circle or
another appropriate symbol. (for
identification from the air)
• A dye marker
• A non official but old method of declaring
distress is to tie a knot in the national
flag
WARNING
The use or exhibition of any of the foregoing signals except for the purpose of
indicating and need of assistance and the use of other signals, which maybe
confused with any of the above signals IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
Glossary
• ABAFT – towards the stern
• ABREAST – opposite or at right angle
• AGROUND – on the bottom
• ASTERN - backwards; behind the vessel.
• ATHWART – at right angle to the fore and aft line of a vessel. Also Athwartship.
• BLINKER – a set of electric lamp at a masthead or spreader connected with a telegraph key.
• BROADSIDE – the side of a vessel above the water.
• BURDEN VESSELS – are vessel oblige to keep clear of those having the right of way.
• COLLISION – vessel coming into destructive contact.
• DEAD AHEAD – a direction straight ahead.
• FAIRWAY – a thoroughfare of shipping mid channel.
• FOG SIGNAL – sounds distinct by vessel or light stations to aid navigators.
• GUT – a small channel
• HYDROFOIL – a boat with underwater wings.
• INSHORE – towards the land.
• LEEWARD – toward the lee ;the part of the ship facing away from the wind.
• LEEWAY – the amount a vessel is carried to leeward by force of the wind.
Glossary
• LOOK OUT – a seaman assigned to the forecastle or at the bridge or aloft to search the sea
ahead and report any vessel or obstruction sighted.
• PRIVILEDGE VESSEL – the one with the right of way and privilege to hold her course and
speed.
• SEA ROOM – offshore with a good safe distance from shoals or a lee shore.
• SHORE – to set a stanchion or place blocking beneath the overloaded deck.
• STAND ON – to hold the course.
• TOW – to haul another ship through the water by a hawser or tied alongside.
• TOWING LINES – are heavy wire rope used for towing.
• TUG – a small vessel used in towing or assisting in docking of a larger ship.
• UNDERWAY – a term applied when a vessel is not fast on the pier and making way through
the water.
• WAKE – the track of the vessel left astern
• WIDE BERTH – comfortable distance from a ship a shoal or the shore.

Module 007 COLLISION REGULATION

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Module 007 COLLISION REGULATION

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COLLISION REGULATIONS

Nothing in these rules shall interfere with the

Nothing in these rules can release any vessel, owner

The only situation when these rules can be deviated

SECTION I – Conduct of Vessel in any Condition of

Rule 6 – Safe Speed

Rule 9 – Narrow Channel

SECTION II – Conduct of Vessel in Sight of One Another

Rule 16 – Action by Give-Way Vessel

SECTION III – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility

Rule 19 – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility

Rule 35 – Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility

Rule 36 – Signals to Attract Attention

Annex I – Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and

Annex III – Technical Details for Sounds Signal Appliances

Annex IV – Distress Signals

• STATE OF THE WIND,SEA

• The characteristic of the ARPA

• Radar interferences due to weather

• The amount of vessels and their

• The possibility of a more exact

This must be done in advance and

A risk of collision should be

If the other vessel is closed and a

If there is a sufficient sea room an alteration

The result of the action shall be monitored

If more time is needed to assess the

A vessel with a “right of way” must also take

When a vessel has the obligation to give

However, when it is clear that the Give-

In such a situation, the “ stand-on”

When joining or leaving the entrance from the

If crossing the lane is unavoidable, it shall be

Entering the separation zone is only allowed

Navigating at the ends of the separation should

Vessels that are not using the scheme

Vessel engage in fishing shall not

Vessel with a length of less than 20m

Vessels that are engaged in

A seaplane on the water shall, in general,

• A vessel not under command

• A vessel not under command

• A vessel not under command

• adjust speed for prevailing visibility

Port-Side Lights: RED Light visible at 112.5º

Stern Light: WHITE Light visible at 135º at the stern

Towing Light: YELLOW Light visible at 135º at the stern

Signal Lights: RED, GREEN or WHITE 360º

Flashing Lights: YELLOW, RED or BLUE ;

LENGTH of VESSEL MHL SL AL TL ARL

NOT LESS NOT LESS

NOT LESS NOT LESS

• A vessel of 20 meters or more shall be provided with a bell in

• A vessel of 100 meters, shall in addition be provided with a

• a vessel of less that 12 meters in length shall not be obliged

• 2 short blast or sound signal means;

• 3 short blast or sound signal means;

• 1 Long blast or sound signal means;

2 prolonged followed by 2 short “Z” from a

The vessel ahead of the signaling vessel

5 short signals or more for showing doubt to

When not making Way in the Water

to have 2 Masthead Light, but

When not making Way in the Water