A GUIDE TO THE STEERING AND SAILING RULES

Are you keeping a proper This chart applies only to vessels in

sight of one another. Rule 5
lookout by sight and sound? Rule 19, restricted visibility: If you
hear a vessel ahead, sound your
signal, slow down but keep
No Do it steerage way, stop if necessary,
navigate with extreme caution till
Yes danger is past.

Is your speed safe for the conditions? Rule 6

No Adjust speed
Yes
Are you in a narrow channel?

Yes Keep to starboard Rule 9

No Do not impede

In a Traffic Separation Scheme?

Yes Heading at right angles Rule 10

Do not impede
No
Is there a risk of collision?
Rule 7
(Constant compass bearing)

Take positive action

No Yes in ample time Rule 8

Is it an overtaking situation?

Overtaking vessel keeps clear.

Yes Rule 13
Other holds course & speed
No
Are the vessels of different types
(Check day shapes and lights)

Yes Most manuvrable gives way Rule 18

No

Both under power?

Yes Nearly head on?

No
Both under sail? (Rule 12) Turn to
Yes Rule 14
No starboard

(Must be crossing) Rule 15

Both have wind on same side?

Yes Give way, avoid

Other vessel to starboard?
crossing ahead
Windward vessel
Yes
No/not sure gives way

Wind on your port side? Rule 12

Yes Give way
No

Stand on, hold course and speed, Rule 17

No
but take action to avoid collision if
the give-way vessel fails to comply
By kind permission of Piotaskipper on ybw.com

3rd March 2011 Page 3