Section I: Conduct of Vessels in any Condition of Visibility

Narrow channels are often found at the entrance to natural harbours and ports. They are usually buoyed, specifically to help commercial shipping navigate in and out safely.  We are not prohibited from using the channel, but we must do so without impeding vessels larger than 20 meters in length. Rules for using a narrow channel…

Rules in this Section apply in any condition of visibility This rule introduces the section and clarifies that everything in Part B—Section I is concerned with what happens irrespective of visibility (i.e., whether vessels can see one another or not).

Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and hearing as well as by 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. We can only hope to avoid something if we know it’s…

Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.  In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into account: Rule 6 is self-explanatory,…

Well, you know what they say about assumptions? This rule confirms that we cannot make any and assume the worst unless we explicitly know otherwise. It also reaffirms some wording in Rule 5 – Look out, particularly the requirement to use Radar (if fitted), but not rely on it if it produces unverifiable results. It…

This rule outlines how to take action, not what to do. Primarily focussed on the give-way vessel; however, both vessels in a collision situation have responsibilities, so the rule applies whether give-way or stand-on.  It can be summarised by the following: Positive action Any action taken to avoid a collision should be ‘positive’. When referring…

Traffic separation schemes (TSSs) are marked on charts and usually have no physical boundaries, although buoys may mark particular points, often with special marks. While no one is obligated to use them, and vessels under 20m are not explicitly banned, anyone entering or in a TSS must abide by its rules. Many skippers choose to…