The Collision Regulations exist so that two skippers who have never met can predict each other's next move.
You don't need to memorise the entire rule book. You do need to know the everyday situations cold.
Right of way is not a right. It's an obligation on the other vessel — and it can evaporate if collision becomes likely.
The Everyday Situations
Head-on, both alter to starboard. Crossing, the vessel on the other's starboard side is the stand-on. Overtaking, the overtaking boat keeps clear. Sail generally has right of way over power — with important exceptions for vessels restricted in their ability to manoeuvre.
The Rule Behind the Rules
Every COLREG rule sits under one master principle: do whatever it takes to avoid a collision. If the "correct" action would cause an accident, take the safer action.
Making Your Intentions Obvious
Turn early. Turn clearly. A small, late alteration confuses the other skipper. A big, early one removes all doubt.
- If you're the stand-on vessel, hold course predictably.
- If you're give-way, act early and unmistakably.
- If in doubt, slow down — speed removes options.
- Can you describe the crossing rule without hesitating?
- When did you last make an early, obvious course change to help another skipper?
- Do you know the sound signals for altering course?
- COLREGs make skippers predictable to each other.
- Right of way disappears the moment collision is likely.
- Early and obvious beats correct and late.