What Are the COLREGs?
The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs, also known as IRPCS) are the 'rules of the road' at sea. They apply to all vessels on the high seas and connected navigable waters. As a Day Skipper, you need full knowledge of the steering and sailing rules.
The regulations are divided into parts: Part A (General), Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules), Part C (Lights and Shapes), Part D (Sound and Light Signals), and Part E (Exemptions).
Key Points
- COLREGs apply to ALL vessels on navigable waters
- Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules) requires full knowledge
- Rules exist to prevent collisions — both vessels share responsibility