Give Way Rules

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Navigation Rules

Vessel Give-Way Rules

Illustrated right-of-way encounters based on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Red vessels give way; green vessels stand on. Dashed arrows show the required course alteration.

ALTER STBDALTER STBD

Head-On (Power-Driven)

COLREG Rule 14

When two power-driven vessels meet on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses, both alter course to starboard so they pass port-to-port.

GIVE WAYSTAND ON

Crossing (Power-Driven)

COLREG Rule 15

When two power-driven vessels cross, the vessel with the other on her starboard side keeps clear and, if needed, alters to starboard to pass astern.

STAND ONGIVE WAY

Overtaking

COLREG Rule 13

Any vessel overtaking another keeps clear of the vessel being overtaken until well past and clear. The overtaking vessel may pass on either side.

0PORT TACKSTBD TACK

Sail — Opposite Tacks

COLREG Rule 12(a)(i)

When two sailing vessels on opposite tacks meet, the vessel on port tack keeps clear of the vessel on starboard tack.

0WINDWARDLEEWARD

Sail — Same Tack

COLREG Rule 12(a)(ii)

When two sailing vessels on the same tack overlap, the windward vessel keeps clear of the leeward vessel.

0POWERSAIL

Power vs. Sail

COLREG Rule 18(a)

A power-driven vessel keeps clear of a sailing vessel — unless the sailing vessel is itself overtaking, or the power vessel is restricted in maneuverability, fishing, or not under command (see hierarchy below).

Priority Hierarchy

Lower-ranked vessels must keep clear of all higher-ranked vessels (COLREG Rule 18).

1

Not Under Command (NUC)

Unable to maneuver — show two red balls

2

Restricted in Maneuverability (RAM)

Ball–diamond–ball; unable to keep clear

3

Constrained by Draft

Cylinder; deep-draft vessel in narrow channel

4

Fishing (engaged in fishing)

Cone–cone; gear restricts maneuvering

5

Sailing Vessel

Under sail alone

6

Power-Driven Vessel

Keeps clear of all above

7

Seaplane

Keeps clear of all vessels

Reminder: These illustrations are general guidelines for reference only. Always assess the actual situation, maintain a proper lookout, and comply with the full COLREGs and local maritime regulations. Verify day/night shapes and lights against the rules before acting.