Collision Regulations and Watchkeeping
This domain tests COLREGS application and bridge watchkeeping judgement. Questions often turn on relative bearing, vessel type, and visibility, so identify the rule before choosing the action.
Steering and sailing rules
Rule 5 requires a proper lookout; Rule 6 safe speed; Rule 7 risk of collision; Rule 8 action to avoid collision. Overtaking is coming from more than 22.5° abaft the beam. Head-on power-driven vessels both alter to starboard. In crossing, the vessel with the other on her starboard side gives way. The stand-on vessel must hold course and speed but may act when the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action. Rule 19 governs restricted visibility.
Worked example
Vessel A steers 000°T at 12 kn. Vessel B bears 090°T at 6 miles and steers 270°T at 10 kn. B is on A's starboard side, so this is a crossing situation and A must give way. A should alter course to starboard and pass astern of B. Altering to port would turn toward B and violate Rule 15.
Traps
Believing the stand-on vessel may never act; altering to port in a crossing; misjudging overtaking as crossing; failing to keep to the starboard edge of a narrow channel; and entering a traffic separation zone without need.