Basic Seamanship

Learning Objectives

By the end of the module, Sea Cadets will be able to:

(a) understand the importance of Rules of the Road to seafarers

(b) describe the ground rules for vessels to operate in a safe environment

Basic Seamanship: Rules of the Road

International Regulations for Prevention of Collision at Sea (COLREGS)

In the same way that cars on the road follow traffic rules to avoid accidents and to arrive at their destination safely, vessels also follow a set of 'traffic rules'. The following are 17 rules that vessels will need to follow. 

As instructed, view the videos and understand more on these rules.

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 Schemes 

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 19: Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility 

Rule 21: Definitions
(Lights & Shapes) 

Rule  22: Visibility of Lights 

Rule 34: Manoeuvring & Warning Signals
(Sounds Signals )

Rule 35: Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
(Sound Signals)