Navigation Rules of The Road

U.S.
Department
Of Homeland Security
RECORD OF CHANGES
CHANGE DATE OF DATE BY WHOM
NUMBER CHANGE ENTERED ENTERED
i
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................... iv
LEGAL CITATIONS ..................................................................................... vi
CONVERSION TABLE................................................................................ vii
NAVIGATION RULES ................................................................................... 1
PART A—GENERAL................................................................................ 2
RULE 1 Application........................................................................... 2
RULE 2 Responsibility ...................................................................... 6
RULE 3 General Definitions.............................................................. 6
PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES........................................ 12

Section I—Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility ................. 12
RULE 4 Application......................................................................... 12
RULE 5 Look-out ............................................................................ 12
RULE 6 Safe Speed ....................................................................... 14
RULE 7 Risk of Collision................................................................. 16
RULE 8 Action to Avoid Collision ................................................... 18
RULE 9 Narrow Channels .............................................................. 20
RULE 10 Traffic Separation Schemes............................................ 22
Section II—Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another ....................... 26
RULE 11 Application....................................................................... 26
RULE 12 Sailing Vessels................................................................ 26
RULE 13 Overtaking....................................................................... 28
RULE 14 Head-on Situation ........................................................... 30
RULE 15 Crossing Situation ........................................................... 30
RULE 16 Action by Give-way Vessel ............................................. 32
RULE 17 Action by Stand-on Vessel.............................................. 32
RULE 18 Responsibilities Between Vessels .................................. 34
Section III—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility......................... 36
RULE 19 Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility...................... 36
PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES ......................................................... 38

RULE 20 Application....................................................................... 38
RULE 21 Definitions ....................................................................... 40
RULE 22 Visibility of Lights............................................................. 42
RULE 23 Power-driven Vessels Underway .................................... 44
RULE 24 Towing and Pushing ....................................................... 52
RULE 25 Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels
Under Oars ........................................................................ 72
RULE 26 Fishing Vessels ............................................................... 80
RULE 27 Vessels Not Under Command or
Restricted in Their Ability to Maneuver.............................. 88
ii
RULE 28 Vessels Constrained by Their Draft .............................. 102
RULE 29 Pilot Vessels.................................................................. 104
RULE 30 Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground...................... 106
RULE 31 Seaplanes ..................................................................... 112
PART D—SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS........................................... 114

RULE 32 Definitions ..................................................................... 114
RULE 33 Equipment for Sound Signals ....................................... 114
RULE 34 Maneuvering and Warning Signals ............................... 116
RULE 35 Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility............................ 120
RULE 36 Signals to Attract Attention............................................ 124
RULE 37 Distress Signals ............................................................ 126
PART E—EXEMPTIONS ..................................................................... 128

RULE 38 Exemptions ................................................................... 128
ANNEX I - Positioning and Technical Details of Lights

and Shapes ............................................................................. 132
ANNEX II - Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels
Fishing in Close Proximity ....................................................... 150
ANNEX III - Technical Details of Sound Signal
Appliances ............................................................................... 152
ANNEX IV - Distress Signals................................................................ 162
ANNEX V (33 CFR 88) - Pilot Rules .................................................... 167
INTERPRETATIVE RULES....................................................................... 174
COLREGS DEMARCATION LINES ......................................................... 176
PENALTY PROVISIONS........................................................................... 199
Violations of International Navigation Rules and
Regulations.............................................................................. 199
Violations of Inland Navigation Rules and Regulations........................ 199
Penalties for Negligent Operations....................................................... 200
Duties Related to Marine Casualty Assistance and
Information............................................................................... 200
Duty to Provide Assistance at Sea ....................................................... 200
Injunctions............................................................................................. 200
ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCE ................................................................ 204
WATERS SPECIFIED BY THE SECRETARY.......................................... 207
VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE REGULATIONS .. 208
iii
INTRODUCTION
International Rules
The International Rules in this book were formalized in the Convention on
the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, and
became effective on July 15, 1977. The Rules (commonly called 72
COLREGS) are part of the Convention, and vessels flying the flags of states
ratifying the treaty are bound to the Rules. The United States has ratified
this treaty and all United States flag vessels must adhere to these Rules
where applicable. President Gerald R. Ford proclaimed 72 COLREGS and
the Congress adopted them as the International Navigational Rules Act of
1977.
The 72 COLREGS were developed by the Inter-Governmental Maritime

Consultative Organization (IMCO) which in May 1982 was renamed the
International Maritime Organization (IMO). In November 1981, IMO’s
Assembly adopted 55 amendments to the 72 COLREGS which became
effective on June 1, 1983. The IMO also adopted 9 more amendments
which became effective on November 19, 1989. The International Rules in
this book contain these amendments.
These Rules are applicable on waters outside of established navigational

lines of demarcation. The lines are called COLREGS Demarcation Lines
and delineate those waters upon which mariners shall comply with the
Inland and International Rules. COLREGS Demarcation Lines are contained
in this book.
iv
INTRODUCTION—CONTINUED
Inland Rules
The Inland Rules in this book replace the old Inland Rules, Western Rivers
Rules, Great Lakes Rules, their respective pilot rules and interpretive rules,
and parts of the Motorboat Act of 1940. Many of the old navigation rules
were originally enacted in the last century. Occasionally, provisions were
added to cope with the increasing complexities of water transportation.
Eventually, the navigation rules for United States inland waterways became
such a confusing patchwork of requirements that in the 1960’s several
attempts were made to revise and simplify them. These attempts were not
successful.
Following the signing of the Convention on the International Regulations for

Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, a new effort was made to unify and
update the various inland navigation rules. This effort culminated in the
enactment of the Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980. This legislation sets
out Rules 1 through 38— the main body of the Rules. The five Annexes
were published as regulations. It is important to note that with the exception
of Annex V to the Inland Rules, the International and Inland Rules and
Annexes are very similar in both content and format.
The effective date for the Inland Navigation Rules was December 24, 1981,
except for the Great Lakes where the effective date was March 1, 1983.
v
LEGAL CITATIONS
72 COLREGS
International Navigational Rules .......................... Public Law 95 - 75;
Act of 1977........................................................... 91 Stat. 308;
........................................................... 33 U.S.C. 1601 - 1608
COLREGS Demarcation Lines ............................ 33 CFR 80
72 COLREGS: Implementing Rules .................... 33 CFR 81
72 COLREGS: Interpretative Rules ..................... 33 CFR 82
Amendments to 72 COLREGS effective ............. 48 FR 28634
June 1, 1983
INLAND RULES
Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980................ Public Law 96 - 591;
................. 94 Stat. 3415;
................. 33 U.S.C. 2001 - 2038
Annex l: Positioning and Technical
Details of Lights and Shapes ........................ 33 CFR 84
Annex Il: Additional Signals for Fishing ............... 33 CFR 85
in Close Proximity
Annex lIl: Technical Details of Sound .................. 33 CFR 86
Signal Appliances
Annex IV: Distress Signals .................................. 33 CFR 87
Annex V: Pilot Rules ............................................ 33 CFR 88
Inland Navigation Rules: Implementing Rules..... 33 CFR 89
Inland Navigation Rules: Interpretative Rules .... 33 CFR 90
VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE

Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act .......... Public Law 92-63;
........... 85 Stat.164;
........... 33 U.S.C. 1201 - 1208
Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone ................ 33 CFR 26
Regulations (Coast Guard regulations)
Radiotelephone Stations Provided for
Compliance With the Vessel Bridge-to
Bridge Radiotelephone Act (Federal
Communications Commission regulations)
Other FCC regulations pertaining to vessel
bridge-to-bridge radiotelephone
communications are contained in various
sections of 47 CFR 80. .................................... 47 CFR 80.1001 - 80.1023
Boundary Lines........................................................ 46 CFR 7
vi
CONVERSION TABLE
Conversion of Metric to U.S. Customary/Imperial Units
U.S. Customary/
Imperial Measure
Metric Measure (approx.)
1000 Meters (M) ..............................................3280.8 ft.
500 M...............................................................1640.4 ft.
200 M.................................................................656.2 ft.
150 M.................................................................492.1 ft.
100 M.................................................................328.1 ft.
75 M...................................................................246.1 ft.
60 M...................................................................196.8 ft.
50 M...................................................................164.0 ft.
25 M.....................................................................82.0 ft.
20 M.....................................................................65.6 ft.
12 M.....................................................................39.4 ft.
10 M.....................................................................32.8 ft.
8 M.........................................................................6.2 ft.
7 M.......................................................................23.0 ft.
6 M.......................................................................19.7 ft.
5 M.........................................................................6.4 ft.
4.5 M....................................................................14.8 ft.
4.0 M....................................................................13.1 ft.
3.5 M....................................................................11.5 ft.
2.5 M......................................................................8.2 ft.
2.0 M......................................................................6.6 ft.
1.5 M......................................................................4.9 ft.
1 M.........................................................................3.3 ft.
.9 M......................................................................35.4 in.
.6 M......................................................................23.6 in.
.5 M......................................................................19.7 in.
300 Millimeters (mm)...........................................11.8 in.
200 mm..................................................................7.9 in.
vii
NAVIGATION RULES
INTERNATIONAL—INLAND
1
—INTERNATIONAL—
General
PART A—GENERAL
RULE 1
Application
(a) These Rules shall apply to all vessels upon the high seas and in all
waters connected therewith navigable by seagoing vessels.
(b) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of special
rules made by an appropriate authority for roadsteads, harbors, rivers, lakes
or inland waterways connected with the high seas and navigable by
seagoing vessels. Such special rules shall conform as closely as possible to
these Rules.
(c) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of any special
rules made by the Government of any State with respect to additional
station or signal lights, shapes or whistle signals for ships of war and
vessels proceeding under convoy, with respect to additional station or signal
lights or shapes for fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet. These
additional station or signal lights, shapes or whistle signals shall, so far as
possible, be such that they cannot be mistaken for any light, shape or signal
authorized elsewhere under these Rules1.
1
Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an
intermittent flashing amber (yellow) beacon with a sequence of one flash per
second for three (3) seconds followed by a three (3) second off-period.
Other special rules made by the Secretary of the Navy with respect to
additional station and signal lights are found in Part 706 of Title 32, Code of
Federal Regulations (32 CFR 706).
2
—INLAND—
General
PART A—GENERAL
RULE 1
Application
(a) These Rules apply to all vessels upon the inland waters of the United
States, and to vessels of the United States on the Canadian waters of the
Great Lakes to the extent that there is no conflict with Canadian law.
(b)
(i) These Rules constitute special rules made by an appropriate
authority within the meaning of Rule 1(b) of the International
Regulations.
(ii) All vessels complying with the construction and equipment
requirements of the International Regulations are considered to be in
compliance with these Rules.
(c) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of any special
rules made by the Secretary of the Navy with respect to additional station or
signal lights and shapes or whistle signals for ships of war and vessels
proceeding under convoy, or by the Secretary with respect to additional
station or signal lights and shapes for fishing vessels engaged in fishing as
a fleet. These additional station or signal lights and shapes or whistle
signals shall, so far as possible, be such that they cannot be mistaken for
any light, shape, or signal authorized elsewhere under these Rules. Notice
of such special rules shall be published in the Federal Register and, after
the effective date specified in such notice, they shall have effect as if they
were a part of these Rules1.
1
Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an
intermittent flashing amber (yellow) beacon with a sequence of one flash per
second for three (3) seconds followed by a three (3) second off-period.
Other special rules made by the Secretary of the Navy with respect to
additional station and signal lights are found in Part 706 of Title 32, Code of
Federal Regulations (32 CFR 706).
3
—INTERNATIONAL—
General
RULE 1—CONTINUED
(d) Traffic separation schemes may be adopted by the Organization for the
purpose of these Rules.
(e) Whenever the Government concerned shall have determined that a
vessel of special construction or purpose cannot comply fully with the
provisions of any of these Rules with respect to the number, position, range
or arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and
characteristics of sound-signaling appliances, such vessel shall comply with
such other provisions in regard to the number, position, range or arc of
visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics
of sound-signaling appliances, as her Government shall have determined to
be the closest possible compliance with these Rules in respect to that
vessel.
4
—INLAND—
General
RULE 1 — CONTINUED
(d) Traffic separation schemes may be established for the purposes of
these Rules. Vessel traffic service regulations may be in effect in certain
areas.
(e) Whenever the Secretary determines that a vessel or class of vessels of
special construction or purpose cannot comply fully with the provisions of
any of these Rules with respect to the number, position, range, or arc of
visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics
of sound-signaling appliances, the vessel shall comply with such other
provisions in regard to the number, position, range, or arc of visibility of
lights or shapes, as well as to the disposition and characteristics of sound-
signaling appliances, as the Secretary shall have determined to be the
closest possible compliance with these Rules. The Secretary may issue a
certificate of alternative compliance for a vessel or class of vessels
specifying the closest possible compliance with these Rules. The Secretary
of the Navy shall make these determinations and issue certificates of
alternative compliance for vessels of the Navy.
(f) The Secretary may accept a certificate of alternative compliance issued
by a contracting party to the International Regulations if he determines that
the alternative compliance standards of the contracting party are
substantially the same as those of the United States.
5
—INTERNATIONAL—
General
RULE 2
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner,
master or crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to comply
with these Rules or of the neglect of any precaution which may be required
by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the
case.
(b) In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be had
to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances,
including the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a
departure from these Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.
RULE 3
General Definitions
For the purpose of these Rules, except where the context otherwise
requires:
(a) The word “vessel” includes every description of water craft, including
nondisplacement craft, WIG craft and seaplanes, used or capable of being
used as a means of transportation on water.
(b) The term “power-driven vessel” means any vessel propelled by
machinery.
(c) The term “sailing vessel” means any vessel under sail provided that
propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used.
(d) The term “vessel engaged in fishing” means any vessel fishing with
nets, lines, trawls or other fishing apparatus which restrict maneuverability,
but does not include a vessel fishing with trolling lines or other fishing
apparatus which do not restrict maneuverability.
(e) The word “seaplane” includes any aircraft designed to maneuver on the
water.
(f) The term “vessel not under command” means a vessel which through
some exceptional circumstance is unable to maneuver as required by these
Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of another vessel.
(g) The term “vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver” means a vessel
which from the nature of her work is restricted in her ability to maneuver as
required by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of
another vessel.
6
—INLAND—
General
RULE 2
Responsibility
(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner,
master, or crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to comply
with these Rules or of the neglect of any precaution which may be required
by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the
case.
(b) In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be had
to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances,
including the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a
departure from these Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.
RULE 3
General Definitions
For the purpose of these Rules and this Chapter, except where the context
otherwise requires:
(a) The word “vessel” includes every description of water craft, including
nondisplacement craft and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a
means of transportation on water;
(b) The term “power-driven vessel” means any vessel propelled by
machinery;
(c) The term “sailing vessel” means any vessel under sail provided that
propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being used;
(d) The term “vessel engaged in fishing” means any vessel fishing with
nets, lines, trawls, or other fishing apparatus which restricts maneuverability,
but does not include a vessel fishing with trolling lines or other fishing
apparatus which do not restrict maneuverability;
(e) The word “seaplane” includes any aircraft designed to maneuver on the
water;
(f) The term “vessel not under command” means a vessel which through
some exceptional circumstance is unable to maneuver as required by these
Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of another vessel;
(g) The term “vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver” means a vessel
which from the nature of her work is restricted in her ability to maneuver as
required by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of
another vessel; vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver include, but
are not limited to:
7
—INTERNATIONAL—
General
RULE 3—CONTINUED
(g) (continued) The term “vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver”
shall include but not be limited to:
(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a navigation
mark, submarine cable or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or underwater operations;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons,
provisions or cargo while underway;
(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching or recovery of aircraft;
(v) a vessel engaged in mineclearance operations;
(vi) a vessel engaged in a towing operation such as severely restricts
the towing vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their
course.
(h) The term “vessel constrained by her draft” means a power-driven
vessel which, because of her draft in relation to the available depth and
width of navigable water is severely restricted in her ability to deviate from
the course she is following.
(i) The word “underway” means that a vessel is not at anchor, or made fast
to the shore, or aground.
(j) The words “length” and “breadth” of a vessel means her length overall
and greatest breadth.
(k) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only when one
can be observed visually from the other.
(l) The term “restricted visibility” means any condition in which visibility is
restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms or any
other similar causes.
(m) The term “Wing-In-Ground (WIG) craft” means a multimodal craft
which, in its main operational mode, flies in close proximity to the surface by
utilizing surface-effect action.
8
—INLAND—
General
RULE 3—CONTINUED
(g) (continued)
(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing, or picking up a navigation
mark, submarine cable, or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying, or underwater operations;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons,
provisions, or cargo while underway;
(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching or recovery of aircraft;
(v) a vessel engaged in mineclearance operations; and (vi) a vessel
engaged in a towing operation such as severely restricts the towing
vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their course.
(h) The word “underway” means that a vessel is not at anchor, or made
fast to the shore, or aground;
(i) The words “length” and “breadth” of a vessel means her length overall
and greatest breadth;
(j) Vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another only when one
can be observed visually from the other;
(k) The term “restricted visibility” means any condition in which visibility is
restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any
other similar causes;
9
—INTERNATIONAL—
General
[BLANK]
10
—INLAND—
General
RULE 3—CONTINUED
(l) “Western Rivers” means the Mississippi River, its tributaries, South
Pass, and Southwest Pass, to the navigational demarcation lines dividing
the high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United
States, and the Port Allen-Morgan City Alternate Route, and that part of the
Atchafalaya River above its junction with the Port Allen-Morgan City
Alternate Route including the Old River and the Red River;
(m) “Great Lakes” means the Great Lakes and their connecting and
tributary waters including the Calumet River as far as the Thomas J.
O’Brien Lock and Controlling Works (between mile 326 and 327), the
Chicago River as far as the east side of the Ashland Avenue Bridge
(between mile 321 and 322), and the Saint Lawrence River as far east as
the lower exit of Saint Lambert Lock;
(n) “Secretary” means the Secretary of the department in which the Coast
Guard is operating;
(o) “Inland Waters” means the navigable waters of the United States
shoreward of the navigational demarcation lines dividing the high seas from
harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States and the waters
of the Great Lakes on the United States side of the International Boundary;
(p) “Inland Rules” or “Rules” mean the Inland Navigational Rules and the
annexes thereto, which govern the conduct of vessels and specify the lights,
shapes, and sound signals that apply on inland waters; and
(q) “International Regulations” means the International Regulations for
Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, including annexes currently in force for
the United States.
11
—INTERNATIONAL—
Steering and Sailing Rules
PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES
Section I—Conduct of Vessels in Any

Condition of Visibility
RULE 4
Application
Rules in this Section apply to any condition of visibility.
RULE 5
Look-out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and
hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing
circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation
and of the risk of collision.
12
—INLAND—
PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES
Subpart I—Conduct of Vessels in Any

Condition of Visibility
RULE 4
Application
Rules in this subpart apply in any condition of visibility.
RULE 5
Look-out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and
hearing as well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing
circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation
and of the risk of collision.
13
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 6
Safe Speed
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can
take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a
distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those
taken into account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) the state of visibility;
(ii) the traffic density including concentrations of fishing vessels or any
other vessels;
(iii) the maneuverability of the vessel with special reference to stopping
distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions;
(iv) at night, the presence of background light such as from shore lights
or from back scatter of her own lights;
(v) the state of wind, sea and current, and the proximity of navigational
hazards;
(vi) the draft in relation to the available depth of water.
(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:
(i) the characteristics, efficiency and limitations of the radar equipment;
(ii) any constraints imposed by the radar range scale in use;
(iii) the effect on radar detection of the sea state, weather and other
sources of interference;
(iv) the possibility that small vessels, ice and other floating objects may
not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(v) the number, location and movement of vessels detected by radar;
(vi) the more exact assessment of the visibility that may be possible
when radar is used to determine the range of vessels or other objects
in the vicinity.
14
—INLAND—
RULE 6
Safe Speed
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can
take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a
distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those
taken into account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) the state of visibility;
(ii) the traffic density including concentration of fishing vessels or any
other vessels;
(iii) the maneuverability of the vessel with special reference to stopping
distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions;
(iv) at night, the presence of background light such as from shore lights
or from back scatter of her own lights;
(v) the state of wind, sea, and current, and the proximity of navigational
hazards;
(vi) the draft in relation to the available depth of water.
(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:
(i) the characteristics, efficiency and limitations of the radar equipment;
(ii) any constraints imposed by the radar range scale in use;
(iii) the effect on radar detection of the sea state, weather, and other
sources of interference;
(iv) the possibility that small vessels, ice and other floating objects may
not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(v) the number, location, and movement of vessels detected by radar;
and
(vi) the more exact assessment of the visibility that may be possible
when radar is used to determine the range of vessels or other objects
in the vicinity.
15
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 7
Risk of Collision
(a) Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there
is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist.
(b) Proper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational,
including long-range scanning to obtain early warning of risk of collision and
radar plotting or equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.
(c) Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information,
especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision exists the following considerations
shall be among those taken into account:
(i) such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an
approaching vessel does not appreciably change;
(ii) such risk may sometimes exist even when an appreciable bearing
change is evident, particularly when approaching a very large vessel or
a tow or when approaching a vessel at close range.
16
—INLAND—
RULE 7
Risk of Collision
(a) Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there
is any doubt such risk shall be deemed to exist. (b) Proper use shall be
made of radar equipment if fitted and operational, including long-range
scanning to obtain early warning of risk of collision and radar plotting or
equivalent systematic observation of detected objects.
(b) Assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information,
especially scanty radar information.
(c) In determining if risk of collision exists the following considerations shall
be among those taken into account:
(d) such risk shall be deemed to exist if the compass bearing of an
approaching vessel does not appreciably change; and (ii) such risk may
sometimes exist even when an appreciable bearing change is evident,
particularly when approaching a very large vessel or a tow or when
approaching a vessel at close range.
17
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 8
Action to Avoid Collision
(a) Any action taken to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance with
the Rules of this Part and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be
positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the observance of good
seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to
another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small
alterations of course and/or speed should be avoided.
(c) If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the
most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that it is
made in good time, is substantial and does not result in another close-
quarters situation.
(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be such as to
result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of the action shall be
carefully checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.
(e) If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess the
situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way off by stopping or
reversing her means of propulsion.
(f)
(i) A vessel which, by any of these rules, is required not to impede the
passage or safe passage of another vessel shall, when required by the
circumstances of the case, take early action to allow sufficient sea
room for the safe passage of the other vessel.
(ii) A vessel required not to impede the passage or safe passage of
another vessel is not relieved of this obligation if approaching the other
vessel so as to involve risk of collision and shall, when taking action,
have full regard to the action which may be required by the rules of this
part.
(iii) A vessel, the passage of which is not to be impeded remains fully
obliged to comply with the rules of this part when the two vessels are
approaching one another so as to involve risk of collision.
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RULE 8
Action to Avoid Collision
(a) Any action taken to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the
case admit, be positive, made in ample time and with due regard to the
observance of good seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course or speed to avoid collision shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, be large enough to be readily apparent to
another vessel observing visually or by radar; a succession of small
alterations of course or speed should be avoided.
(c) If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the
most effective action to avoid a close-quarters situation provided that it is
made in good time, is substantial and does not result in another close-
quarters situation.
(d) Action taken to avoid collision with another vessel shall be such as to
result in passing at a safe distance. The effectiveness of the action shall be
carefully checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.
(e) If necessary to avoid collision or allow more time to assess the
situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or take all way off by stopping or
reversing her means of propulsion.
(f)
(i) A vessel which, by any of these rules, is required not to impede the
passage or safe passage of another vessel shall, when required by the
circumstances of the case, take early action to allow sufficient sea
room for the safe passage of the other vessel.
(ii) A vessel required not to impede the passage or safe passage of
another vessel is not relieved of this obligation if approaching the other
vessel so as to involve risk of collision and shall, when taking action,
have full regard to the action which may be required by the rules of this
part.
(iii) A vessel, the passage of which is not to be impeded remains fully
obliged to comply with the rules of this part when the two vessels are
approaching one another so as to involve risk of collision.
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—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 9
Narrow Channels
(a) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway
shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which Iies on
her starboard side as is safe and practicable.
(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not
impede the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within a
narrow channel or fairway.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other
vessel navigating within a narrow channel or fairway.
(d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing
impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within such
channel or fairway. The latter vessel may use the sound signal prescribed in
Rule 34(d) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel.
(e)
(i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking can take place only
if the vessel to be overtaken has to take action to permit safe passing,
the vessel intending to overtake shall indicate her intention by sounding
the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(c)(i). The vessel to be
overtaken shall, if in agreement, sound the appropriate signal
prescribed in Rule 34(c)(ii) and take steps to permit safe passing. If in
doubt she may sound the signals prescribed in Rule 34(d).
(ii) This Rule does not relieve the overtaking vessel of her obligation
under Rule 13.
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway
where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall
navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the
appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).
(g) Any vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid
anchoring in a narrow channel.
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RULE 9
Narrow Channels
(a)
(i) A vessel proceeding along the course of a narrow channel or fairway
shall keep as near to the outer limit of the channel or fairway which lies
on her starboard side as is safe and practicable.
(ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(i) and Rule 14(a), a power-driven
vessel operating in narrow channels or fairways on the Great Lakes,
Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary, and proceeding
downbound with a following current shall have the right-of-way over an
upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and
shall initiate the maneuvering signals prescribed by Rule 34(a)(i), as
appropriate. The vessel proceeding upbound against the current shall
hold as necessary to permit safe passing.
(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not
impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a
narrow channel or fairway.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any other
vessel navigating within a narrow channel or fairway.
(d) A vessel shall not cross a narrow channel or fairway if such crossing
impedes the passage of a vessel which can safely navigate only within that
channel or fairway. The latter vessel shall use the danger signal prescribed
in Rule 34(d) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel.
(e)
(i) In a narrow channel or fairway when overtaking, the power-driven
vessel intending to overtake another power-driven vessel shall indicate
her intention by sounding the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule
34(c) and take steps to permit safe passing. The power-driven vessel
being overtaken, if in agreement, shall sound the same signal and may,
if specifically agreed to take steps to permit safe passing. If in doubt
she shall sound the danger signal prescribed in Rule 34(d).
(ii) This Rule does not relieve the overtaking vessel of her obligation
under Rule 13.
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway
where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall
navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the
appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).
(g) Every vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid
anchoring in a narrow channel.
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RULE 10
Traffic Separation Schemes
(a) This Rule applies to traffic separation schemes adopted by the
Organization and does not relieve any vessel of her obligation under any other
rule.
(b) A vessel using a traffic separation scheme shall:
(i) proceed in the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic
flow for that lane;
(ii) so far as practicable keep clear of a traffic separation line or separation
zone;
(iii) normally join or leave a traffic lane at the termination of the lane, but
when joining or leaving from either side shall do so at as small an angle to
the general direction of traffic flow as practicable.
(c) A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes but if
obliged to do so shall cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles
to the general direction of traffic flow.
(d)
(i) A vessel shall not use an inshore traffic zone when she can safely use
the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separation scheme.
However, vessels of less than 20 meters in length, sailing vessels and
vessels engaged in fishing may use the inshore traffic zone.
(ii) Notwithstanding subparagraph (d)(i), a vessel may use an inshore
traffic zone when en route to or from a port, offshore installation or
structure, pilot station or any other place situated within the inshore traffic
zone, or to avoid immediate danger.
(e) A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or leaving a lane
shall not normally enter a separation zone or cross a separation line except:
(i) in cases of emergency to avoid immediate danger;
(ii) to engage in fishing within a separation zone.
(f) A vessel navigating in areas near the terminations of traffic separation
schemes shall do so with particular caution.
(g) A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid anchoring in a traffic separation
scheme or in areas near its terminations.
(h) A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme shall avoid it by as wide a
margin as is practicable.
(i) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any vessel
following a traffic lane.
(j) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not
impede the safe passage of a power-driven vessel following a traffic lane.
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RULE 10
Traffic Separation Schemes
(a) This Rule applies to traffic separation schemes and does not relieve any
vessel of her obligation under any other Rule.
(b) A vessel using a traffic separation scheme shall:
(i) proceed in the appropriate traffic lane in the general direction of traffic
flow for that lane;
(ii) so far as practicable keep clear of a traffic separation line or separation
zone;
(iii) normally join or leave a traffic lane at the termination of the lane, but
when joining or leaving from either side shall do so at as small an angle to
the general direction of traffic flow as practicable.
(c) A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes but if
obliged to do so shall cross on a heading as nearly as practicable at right angles
to the general direction of traffic flow.
(d)
(i) A vessel shall not use an inshore traffic zone when she can safely use
the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separation scheme.
However, vessels of less than 20 meters in length, sailing vessels, and
vessels engaged in fishing may use the inshore traffic zone.
(ii) Notwithstanding subparagraph (d) (i), a vessel may use an inshore
traffic zone when en route to or from a port, offshore installation or
structure, pilot station, or any other place situated within the inshore traffic
zone, or to avoid immediate danger.
(e) A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or leaving a lane
shall not normally enter a separation zone or cross a separation line except:
(i) in cases of emergency to avoid immediate danger; or
(ii) to engage in fishing within a separation zone.
(f) A vessel navigating in areas near the terminations of traffic separation
schemes shall do so with particular caution.
(g) (g)A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid anchoring in a traffic
separation scheme or in areas near its terminations.
(h) A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme shall avoid it by as wide a
margin as is practicable.
(i) A vessel engaged in fishing shall not impede the passage of any vessel
following a traffic lane.
(j) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall not
impede the safe passage of a power-driven vessel following a traffic lane.
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RULE 10—CONTINUED
(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in an
operation for the maintenance of safety of navigation in a traffic separation
scheme is exempted from complying with this Rule to the extent necessary
to carry out the operation.
(l) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in an
operation for the laying, servicing or picking up of a submarine cable, within
a traffic separation scheme, is exempted from complying with this Rule to
the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
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RULE 10—CONTINUED
(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in an
operation for the maintenance of safety of navigation in a traffic separation
scheme is exempted from complying with this Rule to the extent necessary
to carry out the operation.
(l) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in an
operation for the laying, servicing, or picking up of a submarine cable, within
a traffic separation scheme, is exempted from complying with this Rule to
the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
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—INTERNATIONAL—
Section II—Conduct of Vessels in Sight of

One Another
RULE 11
Application
Rules in this section apply to vessels in sight of one another.
RULE 12
Sailing Vessels
(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as to
involve risk of collision, one of them shall keep out of the way of the other as
follows:
(i) when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the
wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other;
(ii) when both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to
windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward;
(iii) if a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to windward
and cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel has the
wind on the port or on the starboard side, she shall keep out of the way
of the other.
(b) For the purposes of this Rule the windward side shall be deemed to be
the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is carried or, in the case of a
square-rigged vessel, the side opposite to that on which the largest fore-
and-aft sail is carried.
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Subpart II—Conduct of Vessels in Sight of

One Another
RULE 11
Application
Rules in this subpart apply to vessels in sight of one another.
RULE 12
Sailing Vessels
(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as to
involve risk of collision, one of them shall keep out of the way of the other as
follows:
(i) when each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the
wind on the port side shall keep out of the way of the other;
(ii) when both have the wind on the same side, the vessel which is to
windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which is to leeward;
and (iii) if a vessel with the wind on the port side sees a vessel to
windward and cannot determine with certainty whether the other vessel
has the wind on the port or on the starboard side, she shall keep out of
the way of the other.
(b) For the purpose of this Rule the windward side shall be deemed to be
the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is carried or, in the case of a
square-rigged vessel, the side opposite to that on which the largest fore-
and-aft sail is carried.
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RULE 13
Overtaking
(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in the Rules of Part B, Sections I
and II, any vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the
vessel being overtaken.
(b) A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with
another vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft her beam, that
is, in such a position with reference to the vessel she is overtaking, that at
night she would be able to see only the sternlight of that vessel but neither
of her sidelights.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether she if overtaking another,
she shall assume that this is the case and act accordingly. (d) Any
subsequent alteration of the bearing between the two vessels shall not
make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel within the meaning of these
Rules or relieve her of the duty of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until
she is finally past and clear.
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RULE 13
Overtaking
(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in Rules 4 through 18, any vessel
overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being
overtaken.
(b) A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with
another vessel from a direction more than 22.5 degrees abaft her beam; that
is, in such a position with reference to the vessel she is overtaking, that at
night she would be able to see only the sternlight of that vessel but neither
of her sidelights.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether she is overtaking another,
she shall assume that this is the case and act accordingly. (d) Any
subsequent alteration of the bearing between the two vessels shall not
make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel within the meaning of these
Rules or relieve her of the duty of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until
she is finally past and clear.
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RULE 14
Head-on Situation
(a) When two power-driven vessels are meeting on reciprocal or nearly
reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall alter her
course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port side of the other.
(b) Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other
ahead or nearly ahead and by night she could see the masthead lights of
the other in a line or nearly in a line and/or both sidelights and by day she
observes the corresponding aspect of the other vessel.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists she
shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.
RULE 15
Crossing Situation
When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of
collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side shall
keep out of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid
crossing ahead of the other vessel.
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RULE 14
Head-on Situation
(a) Unless otherwise agreed, when two power-driven vessels are meeting
on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses so as to involve risk of collision
each shall alter her course to starboard so that each shall pass on the port
side of the other.
(b) Such a situation shall be deemed to exist when a vessel sees the other
ahead or nearly ahead and by night she could see the masthead lights of
the other in a line or nearly in a line or both sidelights and by day she
observes the corresponding aspect of the other vessel.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether such a situation exists she
shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly.
(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this Rule, a power-driven vessel
operating on the Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the
Secretary, and proceeding downbound with a following current shall have
the right-of-way over an upbound vessel, shall propose the manner of
passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals prescribed by Rule
34(a)(i), as appropriate.
RULE 15
Crossing Situation
(a) When two power-driven vessels are crossing so as to involve risk of
collision, the vessel which has the other on her starboard side shall keep out
of the way and shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid crossing
ahead of the other vessel.
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), on the Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or
water specified by the Secretary, a power-driven vessel crossing a river
shall keep out of the way of a power-driven vessel ascending or descending
the river.
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RULE 16
Action by Give-way Vessel
Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel
shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
RULE 17
Action by Stand-on Vessel
(a)
(i) Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way the other shall
keep her course and speed.
(ii) The latter vessel may however take action to avoid collision by her
maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel
required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in
(b) When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course and
speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of
the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to
avoid collision.
(c) A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing situation in
accordance with subparagraph (a)(ii) of this Rule to avoid collision with
another power-driven vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit,
not alter course to port for a vessel on her own port side.
(d) This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of her obligation to keep
out of the way.
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RULE 16
Action by Give-way Vessel
Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel
shall, so far as possible, take early and substantial action to keep well clear.
RULE 17
Action by Stand-on Vessel
(a)
(i) Where one of two vessels is to keep out of the way, the other shall
keep her course and speed.
(ii) The latter vessel may, however, take action to avoid collision by her
maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes apparent to her that the vessel
required to keep out of the way is not taking appropriate action in
(b) When, from any cause, the vessel required to keep her course and
speed finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of
the give-way vessel alone, she shall take such action as will best aid to
avoid collision.
(c) A power-driven vessel which takes action in a crossing situation in
accordance with subparagraph (a)(ii) of this Rule to avoid collision with
another power-driven vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit,
not alter course to port for a vessel on her own port side.
(d) This Rule does not relieve the give-way vessel of her obligation to keep
out of the way.
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RULE 18
Responsibilities Between Vessels
Except where Rules 9, 10 and 13 otherwise require:
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:
(i) a vessel not under command;
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver;
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing;
(iv) a sailing vessel.
(b) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, so far as possible,
keep out of the way of:
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.
(d)
(i) Any vessel other than a vessel not under command or a vessel
restricted in her ability to maneuver shall, if the circumstances of the
case admit, avoid impeding the safe passage of a vessel constrained
by her draft, exhibiting the signals in Rule 28.
(ii) A vessel constrained by her draft shall navigate with particular
caution having full regard to her special condition.
(e) A seaplane on the water shall, in general, keep well clear of all vessels
and avoid impeding their navigation. In circumstances, however, where risk
of collision exists, she shall comply with the Rules of this Part.
(f)
(i) A WIG craft shall, when taking off, landing and in flight near the
surface, keep well clear of all other vessels and avoid impeding their
navigation;
(ii) A WIG craft operating on the water surface shall comply with the
Rules of this Part as a power-driven vessel.
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RULE 18
Responsibilities Between Vessels
Except where Rules 9, 10, and 13 otherwise require:
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing; and
(iv) a sailing vessel.
(b) A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver; and
(iii) a vessel engaged in fishing.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing when underway shall, so far as possible,
keep out of the way of:
(i) a vessel not under command; and
(ii) a vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.
(d) A seaplane on the water shall, in general, keep well clear of all vessels
and avoid impeding their navigation. In circumstances, however, where risk
of collision exists, she shall comply with the Rules of this Part.
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—INTERNATIONAL—
Section III—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted

Visibility
RULE 19
Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility
(a) This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when
navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility.
(b) Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven vessel
shall have her engines ready for immediate maneuver.
(c) Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing circumstances and
conditions of restricted visibility when complying with the Rules of Section I
of this Part.
(d) A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel
shall determine if a close-quarters situation is developing and/or risk of
collision exists. If so, she shall take avoiding action in ample time, provided
that when such action consists of an alteration of course, so far as possible
the following shall be avoided:
(i) an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other
than for a vessel being overtaken;
(ii) an alteration of course towards a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.
(e) Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not
exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog
signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a close-quarters situation
with another vessel forward of her beam, shall reduce her speed to the
minimum at which she can be kept on her course. She shall if necessary
take all her way off and in any event navigate with extreme caution until
danger of collision is over.
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Subpart III—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted

Visibility
RULE 19
Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility
(a) This Rule applies to vessels not in sight of one another when
navigating in or near an area of restricted visibility.
(b) Every vessel shall proceed at a safe speed adapted to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven vessel
shall have her engines ready for immediate maneuver.
(c) Every vessel shall have due regard to the prevailing circumstances and
conditions of restricted visibility when complying with Rules 4 through 10.
(d) A vessel which detects by radar alone the presence of another vessel
shall determine if a close-quarters situation is developing or risk of collision
exists. If so, she shall take avoiding action in ample time, provided that
when such action consists of an alteration of course, so far as possible the
following shall be avoided:
(i) an alteration of course to port for a vessel forward of the beam, other
than for a vessel being overtaken; and
(ii) an alteration of course toward a vessel abeam or abaft the beam.
(e) Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not
exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog
signal of another vessel, or which cannot avoid a closequarters situation
with another vessel forward of her beam, shall reduce her speed to the
minimum at which she can be kept on course. She shall if necessary take all
her way off and, in any event, navigate with extreme caution until danger of
collision is over.
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Lights and Shapes
PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES
RULE 20
Application
(a) Rules in this Part shall be complied with in all weathers.
(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to
sunrise, and during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except
such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules or
do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the
keeping of a proper look-out.
(c) The lights prescribed by these Rules shall, if carried, also be exhibited
from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all other
circumstances when it is deemed necessary.
(d) The Rules concerning shapes shall be complied with by day.
(e) The lights and shapes specified in these Rules shall comply with the
provisions of Annex I to these Regulations.
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Lights and Shapes
PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES
RULE 20
Application
(a) Rules in this Part shall be complied with in all weathers.
(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to
sunrise, and during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except
such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules or
do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the
keeping of a proper look-out.
(c) The lights prescribed by these Rules shall, if carried, also be exhibited
from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all other
circumstances when it is deemed necessary.
(d) The Rules concerning shapes shall be complied with by day.
(e) The lights and shapes specified in these Rules shall comply with the
provisions of Annex I of these Rules.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 21
Definitions
(a) “Masthead light” means a white light placed over the fore and aft
centerline of the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon
of 225 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5
degrees abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
(b) “Sidelights” means a green light on the starboard side and a red light
on the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon
of 112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5
degrees abaft the beam on its respective side. In a vessel of less than 20
meters in length the sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on
the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
(c) “Sternlight” means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the
stern showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees
and so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of
the vessel.
(d) “Towing light” means a yellow light having the same characteristics as
the “sternlight” defined in paragraph (c) of this Rule.
(e) “All-round light” means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 360 degrees.
(f) “Flashing light” means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency
of 120 flashes or more per minute.
40
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 21
Definitions
(a) “Masthead light” means a white light placed over the fore and aft
centerline of the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon
of 225 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5
degrees abaft the beam on either side of the vessel, except that on a vessel
of less than 12 meters in length the masthead light shall be placed as nearly
as practicable to the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
(b) “Sidelights” mean a green light on the starboard side and a red light on
the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of
112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5
degrees abaft the beam on its respective side. On a vessel of less than 20
meters in length the sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on
the fore and aft centerline of the vessel, except that on a vessel of less than
12 meters in length the sidelights when combined in one lantern shall be
placed as nearly as practicable to the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
(c) “Sternlight” means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the
stern showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees
and so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of
the vessel.
(d) “Towing light” means a yellow light having the same characteristics as
the “sternlight” defined in paragraph (c) of this Rule.
(e) “All-round light” means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 360 degrees.
(f) “Flashing light” means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency
of 120 flashes or more per minute.
(g) “Special flashing light” means a yellow light flashing at regular intervals
at a frequency of 50 to 70 flashes per minute, placed as far forward and as
nearly as practicable on the fore and aft centerline of the tow and showing
an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of not less than 180 degrees
nor more than 225 degrees and so fixed as to show the light from right
ahead to abeam and no more than 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on either
side of the vessel.
41
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 22
Visibility of Lights
The lights prescribed in these Rules shall have an intensity as specified in
Section 8 of Annex I to these Regulations so as to be visible at the following
minimum ranges:
(a) In vessels of 50 meters or more in length:
− a masthead light, 6 miles;
− a sidelight, 3 miles;
− a sternlight, 3 miles;
− a towing light, 3 miles;
− a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 3 miles.
(b) In vessels of 12 meters or more in length but less than 50 meters in
length:
− a masthead light, 5 miles; except that where the length of the vessel is
less than 20 meters, 3 miles;
− a sidelight, 2 miles;
(c) In vessels of less than 12 meters in length:
− a masthead light, 2 miles;
− a sidelight, 1 mile;
(d) In inconspicuous, partly submerged vessels or objects being towed:
(a) a white all-round light, 3 miles.
42
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 22
Visibility of Lights
The lights prescribed in these Rules shall have an intensity as specified in
Annex I to these Rules, so as to be visible at the following minimum ranges:
(a) In a vessel of 50 meters or more in length:
—a masthead light, 6 miles;
—a sidelight, 3 miles;
—a sternlight, 3 miles;
—a towing light, 3 miles;
—a white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 3 miles; and
—a special flashing light, 2 miles.
(b) In a vessel of 12 meters or more in length but less than 50 meters in
length:
—a masthead light, 5 miles; except that where the length of the vessel is
less than 20 meters, 3 miles;
—a sidelight, 2 miles;
(c) In a vessel of less than 12 meters in length:
—a masthead light, 2 miles;
—a sidelight, 1 mile;
(d) In an inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object being towed:
—a white all-round light, 3 miles.
43
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23
Power-driven Vessels Underway
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall exhibit:
(i) a masthead light forward;
(ii) a second masthead light abaft of and higher than the forward one;
except that a vessel of less than 50 meters in length shall not be
obliged to exhibit such light but may do so;
(iii) sidelights; and
(iv) a sternlight.
Power-driven vessel underway. Same for Inland.
44
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23
Power-driven Vessels Underway
(a) A power-driven vessel underway shall exhibit:
(i) a masthead light forward;
(ii) a second masthead light abaft of and higher than the forward one;
except that a vessel of less than 50 meters in length shall not be
obliged to exhibit such light but may do so;
(iii) sidelights; and
(iv) a sternlight.
Power-driven vessel underway - less than 50 meters in length.

Same for International.
45
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23—CONTINUED
(b) An air-cushion vessel when operating in the nondisplacement mode
shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit
an all-round flashing yellow light.
Air-cushion vessel when operating in the nondisplacement mode -

vessel less than 50 meters in length.
46
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23—CONTINUED
(b) An air-cushion vessel when operating in the nondisplacement mode
an all-round flashing yellow light where it can best be seen.
Air-cushion vessel when operating in the displacement mode -

47
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23—CONTINUED
(c) A WIG craft only when taking off, landing and in flight near the surface
a high intensity all-round flashing red light.
(d)
(i) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length may in lieu of
the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule exhibit an all-round
white light and sidelights;
(ii) a power-driven vessel of less than 7 meters in length whose
maximum speed does not exceed 7 knots may in lieu of the lights
prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule exhibit an all-round white light
and shall, if practicable, also exhibit sidelights;
(iii) the masthead light or all-round white light on a power-driven vessel
of less than 12 meters in length may be displaced from the fore and aft
centerline of the vessel if centerline fitting is not practicable, provided
that the sidelights are combined in one lantern which shall be carried
on the fore and aft centerline of the vessel or located as nearly as
practicable in the same fore and aft line as the masthead light or the
all-round white light.
Power-driven vessel of less than 7 meters in length whose maximum speed

does not exceed 7 knots.
48
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23—CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length may, in lieu of
the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit an all-round white
light and sidelights.
Power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length. Same for

International.
49
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
[BLANK]
50
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 23—CONTINUED
(d) A power-driven vessel when operating on the Great Lakes may carry
an all-round white light in lieu of the second masthead light and sternlight
prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule. The light shall be carried in the
position of the second masthead light and be visible at the same minimum
range.
Power-driven vessel on Great Lakes.
51
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24
Towing and Pushing
(a) A power-driven vessel when towing shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or (a)(ii), two masthead
lights in a vertical line. When the length of the tow, measuring from the
stern of the towing vessel to the after end of the tow exceeds 200
meters, three such lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights;
(iii) a sternlight;
(iv) a towing light in a vertical line above the sternlight; and (v) when
the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape where it
can best be seen.
Power-driven vessel towing astern - towing vessel less than 50 meters in

length; length of tow exceeds 200 meters. Same for Inland
52
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24
Towing and Pushing
(a) A power-driven vessel when towing astern shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed either in Rule 23(a)(i) or 23(a)(ii), two
masthead lights in a vertical line. When the length of the tow,
measuring from the stern of the towing vessel to the after end of the
tow exceeds 200 meters, three such lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights;
(iii) a sternlight;
(iv) a towing light in a vertical line above the sternlight; and (v) when
the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape where it
can best be seen.
Power-driven vessel towing astern - towing vessel less than 50 meters in

length; length of tow 200 meters or less. Same for International.
53
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(b) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly
connected in a composite unit they shall be regarded as a power-driven
vessel and exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 23.
Composite unit underway. Same for Inland.
54
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(b) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly
vessel and exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 23.
Composite unit underway - less than 50 meters in length.

55
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing alongside,
except in the case of a composite unit, shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or 23(a)(ii), two
masthead lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights; and
(iii) a sternlight.
Power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside—towing vessel

less than 50 meters in length.
56
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing alongside,
except as required by paragraphs (b) and (i) of this Rule, shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed either in Rule 23(a)(i) or 23(a)(ii), two
masthead lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights; and
(iii) two towing lights in a vertical line.
Power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside—towing

57
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(d) A power-driven vessel to which paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule apply
shall also comply with Rule 23(a)(ii).
Power-driven vessel towing astern—length of tow 200 meters or less. The after
masthead light is optional for vessel less than 50 meters in length. Same for Inland.
(e) A vessel or object being towed, other than those mentioned in

paragraph (g) of this Rule, shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights;
(ii) a sternlight;
(iii) when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape
where it can best be seen.
Vessel or object being towed-length of tow exceeds 200 meters. Same for Inland.
58
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
A power-driven vessel to which paragraphs (a) or (c) of this Rule apply shall
also comply with Rule 23(a)(i) and 23(a)(ii).
Power-driven vessel towing astern—length of tow 200 meters or less. When

masthead lights for towing or pushing are exhibited aft, a forward masthead light
is required. Same for International.
(d) A vessel or object other than those referred to in paragraph (g) of this Rule
being towed shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights;
(ii) a sternlight; and
(iii) when the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape
where it can best be seen.
Vessel being towed—length of tow 200 meters or less. Same for International.
59
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(f) Provided that any number of vessels being towed alongside or pushed
in a group shall be lighted as one vessel:
(i) a vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit,
shall exhibit at the forward end, sidelights;
(ii) a vessel being towed alongside shall exhibit a sternlight and at the
forward end, sidelights.
60
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(e) Provided that any number of vessels being towed alongside or pushed
in a group shall be lighted as one vessel, except as provided in paragraph
(iii):
(i) a vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit,
shall exhibit at the forward end sidelights, and a special flashing light;
(ii) a vessel being towed alongside shall exhibit a sternlight and at the
forward end, sidelights and a special flashing light; and
(iii) when vessels are towed alongside on both sides of the towing
vessels a sternlight shall be exhibited on the stern of the outboard
vessel on each side of the towing vessel, and a single set of sidelights
as far forward and as far outboard as is practicable, and a single
special flashing light.
61
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.
Vessel being towed alongside.
62
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.
Vessel being towed alongside.
63
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(g) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object, or combination of
such vessels or objects being towed, shall exhibit:
(h) if it is less than 25 meters in breadth, one all-round white light at or
near the forward end and one at or near the after end except that dracones
need not exhibit a light at or near the forward end;
(i) if it is 25 meters or more in breadth, two additional all-round white
lights at or near the extremities of its breadth;
(ii) if it exceeds 100 meters in length, additional all-round white lights
between the lights prescribed in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) so that the
distance between the lights shall not exceed 100 meters;
(iii) a diamond shape at or near the aftermost extremity of the last
vessel or object being towed and if the length of the tow exceeds 200
meters an additional diamond shape where it can best be seen and
located as far forward as is practicable.
Dracone being towed.
64
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(f) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object being towed shall
exhibit:
(g) if it is less than 25 meters in breadth, one all-round white light at or
near each end;
(i) if it is 25 meters or more in breadth, four all-round white lights to
mark its length and breadth;
(ii) if it exceeds 100 meters in length, additional all-round white lights
between the lights prescribed in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) so that the
distance between the lights shall not exceed 100 meters: Provided,
That any vessels or objects being towed alongside each other shall be
lighted as one vessel or object;
(iii) a diamond shape at or near the aftermost extremity of the last
vessel or object being towed; and (v) the towing vessel may direct a
searchlight in the direction of the tow to indicate its presence to an
approaching vessel.
65
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(h) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel or
object being towed to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in paragraph
(e) or (g) of this Rule, all possible measures shall be taken to light the vessel
or object towed or at least to indicate the presence of such vessel or object.
66
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(h) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel or
object being towed to exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (e) or (g) of
this Rule, all possible measures shall be taken to light the vessel or object
towed or at least to indicate the presence of the unlighted vessel or object.
67
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
[BLANK]
68
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (c), on the Western Rivers (except below
the Huey P. Long Bridge on the Mississippi River) and on waters specified
by the Secretary, a power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing
alongside, except as paragraph (b) applies, shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights; and
(ii) two towing lights in a vertical line.
Power-driven vessel pushing ahead on Western Rivers. (above the

Huey P. Long Bridge on the Mississippi River)
69
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(i) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel not
normally engaged in towing operations to display the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule, such vessel shall not be required to exhibit
those lights when engaged in towing another vessel in distress or otherwise
in need of assistance. All possible measures shall be taken to indicate the
nature of the relationship between the towing vessel and the vessel being
towed as authorized by Rule 36, in particular by illuminating the towline.
70
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 24—CONTINUED
(j) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel not
normally engaged in towing operations to display the lights prescribed by
paragraph (a), (c) or (i) of this Rule, such vessel shall not be required to
exhibit those lights when engaged in towing another vessel in distress or
otherwise in need of assistance. All possible measures shall be taken to
indicate the nature of the relationship between the towing vessel and the
vessel being assisted. The searchlight authorized by Rule 36 may be used
to illuminate the tow.
71
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25
Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
(a) A sailing vessel underway shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights;
(ii) a stern light.
(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 20 meters in length the lights prescribed
in paragraph (a) of this Rule may be combined in one lantern carried at or
near the top of the mast where it can best be seen.
Sailing vessel underway. Same for Inland.
72
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25
Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
(a) A sailing vessel underway shall exhibit:
(i) sidelights; and
(ii) a stern light.
(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 20 meters in length the lights prescribed
in paragraph (a) of this Rule may be combined in one lantern carried at or
near the top of the mast where it can best be seen.
Sailing vessel underway—less than 20 meters in length.

73
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in addition to the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit at or near the top of the mast, where they
can best be seen, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red
and the lower green, but these lights shall not be exhibited in conjunction
with the combined lantern permitted by paragraph (b) of this Rule.
Sailing vessel underway. Same for Inland.
74
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in addition to the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit at or near the top of the mast, where they
can best be seen, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red
and the lower green, but these lights shall not be exhibited in conjunction
with the combined lantern permitted by paragraph (b) of this Rule.
75
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(d)
(i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 meters in length shall, if practicable,
exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Rule, but if
she does not, she shall have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted
lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time
to prevent collision.
(ii) A vessel under oars may exhibit the lights prescribed in this Rule for
sailing vessels, but if she does not, she shall have ready at hand an
electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be
exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
Sailing vessel underway—less than 7 meters in length.

Same for Inland.
76
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(d)
(i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 meters in length shall, if practicable,
exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Rule, but if
she does not, she shall have ready at hand an electric torch or lighted
lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time
to prevent collision.
(ii) A vessel under oars may exhibit the lights prescribed in this Rule for
sailing vessels, but if she does not, she shall have ready at hand an
electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be
exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
Vessel under oars. Same for International.
77
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(e) A vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by
machinery shall exhibit forward where it can best be seen a conical shape,
apex downwards.
Vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by

machinery. Same for Inland except that a vessel of less than
12 meters in length is not required to exhibit the dayshape.
78
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 25—CONTINUED
(e) A vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by
machinery shall exhibit forward where it can best be seen a conical shape,
apex downward. A vessel of less than 12 meters in length is not required to
exhibit this shape, but may do so.
79
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26
Fishing Vessels
(a) A vessel engaged in fishing, whether underway or at anchor, shall
exhibit only the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(b) A vessel when engaged in trawling, by which is meant the dragging
through the water of a dredge net or other apparatus used as a fishing
appliance, shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being green and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with their apexes
together in a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) a masthead light abaft of and higher than the all-round green light; a
vessel of less than 50 meters in length shall not be obliged to exhibit
such a light but may do so;
(iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the lights
prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a sternlight.
Vessel engaged in trawling—not making way. Same for Inland.
80
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26
Fishing Vessels
(a) A vessel engaged in fishing, whether underway or at anchor, shall
exhibit only the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(b) A vessel when engaged in trawling, by which is meant the dragging
through the water of a dredge net or other apparatus used as a fishing
appliance, shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being green and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with their apexes
together in a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) a masthead light abaft of and higher than the all-round green light; a
vessel of less than 50 meters in length shall not be obliged to exhibit
such a light but may do so; and
Vessel engaged in trawling—not making way; vessel less than 50

meters in length. Same for International.
81
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
Vessel engaged in trawling—making way; vessel less than 50

meters in length. Same for Inland.
82
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
Vessel engaged in trawling—making way. Same for International.
83
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing, other than trawling, shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with apexes together in
a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) when there is outlying gear extending more than 150 meters
horizontally from the vessel, an all-round white light or a cone apex
upwards in the direction of the gear;
Vessel engaged in fishing other than trawling—making way.

Same for Inland.
84
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing, other than trawling, shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper being red and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of two cones with apexes together in
a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) when there is outlying gear extending more than 150 meters
horizontally from the vessel, an all-round white light or a cone apex
upward in the direction of the gear; and
Vessel engaged in fishing other than trawling—not making way.

85
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
(d) The additional signals described in Annex II to these Rules apply to a
vessel engaged in fishing in close proximity to other vessels engaged in
fishing.
(e) A vessel when not engaged in fishing shall not exhibit the lights or
shapes prescribed in this Rule, but only those prescribed for a vessel of her
length.
86
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26—CONTINUED
(d) The additional signals described in Annex II to these Rules apply to a
vessel engaged in fishing in close proximity to other vessels engaged in
fishing.
(e) A vessel when not engaged in fishing shall not exhibit the lights or
shapes prescribed in this Rule, but only those prescribed for a vessel of her
length.
87
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27
Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their
Ability to Maneuver
(a) A vessel not under command shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line where they can best be
seen;
(ii) two balls or similar shapes in a vertical line where they can best be
seen;
Vessel not under command—not making way. Same for Inland.
88
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27
Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their
Ability to Maneuver
(a) A vessel not under command shall exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line where they can best be
seen;
(ii) two balls or similar shapes in a vertical line where they can best be
seen; and (iii) when making way through the water, in addition to the
lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights and a sternlight.
Vessel not under command—making way. Same for International.
89
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, except a vessel engaged
in mineclearance operations, shall exhibit:
(i) three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen.
The highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and the middle light
shall be white;
(ii) three shapes in a vertical line where they can best be seen. The
highest and lowest of these shapes shall be balls and the middle one a
diamond;
(iii) when making way through the water, a masthead light or lights,
sidelights and a sternlight, in addition to the lights prescribed in
subparagraph (i);
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in
subparagraphs (i) and (ii), the light, lights or shape prescribed in Rule
30.
Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver—making way; vessel

less than 50 meters in length. Same for Inland.
90
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—Continued
(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, except a vessel engaged

in mineclearance operations, shall exhibit:
shall be white;
(ii) three shapes in a vertical line where they can best be seen. The
highest and lowest of these shapes shall be balls and the middle one a
diamond;
(iii) when making way through the water, masthead lights, sidelights
and a sternlight, in addition to the lights prescribed in subparagraph
(b)(i); and
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in
subparagraphs (b)(i) and (ii), the light, lights or shapes prescribed in
Rule 30.
Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver—at anchor; vessel less

than 50 meters in length. Same for International.
91
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel engaged in a towing operation such as severely
restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their
course shall, in addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 24(a),
exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in subparagraphs (b)(i) and (ii) of this
Rule.
92
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(c) A vessel engaged in a towing operation which severely restricts the
towing vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their course shall, in
addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in subparagraphs (b)(i) and (ii) of
this Rule, exhibit the lights or shape prescribed in Rule 24.
Vessel engaged in towing operation which severely restricts towing

vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their course—length
of tow does not exceed 200 meters; towing vessel less than 50
meters in length. Same for International.
93
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations, when
restricted in her ability to maneuver, shall exhibit the lights and shapes
prescribed in subparagraphs (b)(i), (ii) and (iii) of this Rule and shall in
addition, when an obstruction exists, exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights or two balls in a vertical line to indicate the
side on which the obstruction exists;
(ii) two all-round green lights or two diamonds in a vertical line to
indicate the side on which another vessel may pass;
(iii) when at anchor, the lights or shapes prescribed in this paragraph
instead of the lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30.
Vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations when

restricted in ability to maneuver—making way with an obstruction on
the starboard side. Same for Inland.
94
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations, when
restricted in her ability to maneuver, shall exhibit the lights and shapes
prescribed in subparagraphs (b)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this Rule and shall in
addition, when an obstruction exists, exhibit:
(i) two all-round red lights or two balls in a vertical line to indicate the
side on which the obstruction exists;
(ii) two all-round green lights or two diamonds in a vertical line to
indicate the side on which another vessel may pass; and
(iii) when at anchor, the lights or shape prescribed by this paragraph,
instead of the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 30 for anchored
vessels.
Vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations when restricted in

ability to maneuver—not making way with an obstruction on the starboard
side. Same for International.
95
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged in diving operations makes it
impracticable to exhibit all lights and shapes prescribed in paragraph (d) of
this Rule, the following shall be exhibited:
shall be white;
(ii) a rigid replica of the International Code flag “A” not less than 1
meter in height. Measures shall be taken to ensure its all-round
visibility.
Small vessel engaged in diving operations. Same for Inland.
96
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged in diving operations makes it
impracticable to exhibit all lights and shapes prescribed in paragraph (d) of
this Rule, the following shall instead be exhibited:
(i) Three all-round lights in a vertical line where they can best be seen.
shall be white;
(ii) A rigid replica of the international Code flag “A” not less than 1
meter in height. Measures shall be taken to insure its all-round visibility.
Small vessel engaged in diving operations. Same for International.
97
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(f) A vessel engaged in mineclearance operations shall, in addition to the
lights prescribed for a power-driven vessel in Rule 23 or to the lights or
shape prescribed for a vessel at anchor in Rule 30 as appropriate, exhibit
three all-round green lights or three balls. One of these lights or shapes
shall be exhibited near the foremast head and one at each end of the fore
yard. These lights or shapes indicate that it is dangerous for another vessel
to approach within 1000 meters of the mineclearance vessel.
Vessel engaged in mineclearance operations—vessel less than 50

meters in length. Same for Inland.
98
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(f) A vessel engaged in mineclearance operations shall, in addition to the
lights prescribed for a power-driven vessel in Rule 23 or to the lights or
shape prescribed for a vessel at anchor in Rule 30, as appropriate, exhibit
three all-round green lights or three balls. One of these lights or shapes
shall be exhibited near the foremast head and one at each end of the fore
yard. These lights or shapes indicate that it is dangerous for another vessel
to approach within 1000 meters of the mineclearance vessel.
Vessel engaged in mineclearance operations.

99
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(g) Vessels of less than 12 meters in length, except those engaged in
diving operations, shall not be required to exhibit the lights and shapes
prescribed in this Rule.
(h) The signals prescribed in this Rule are not signals of vessels in distress
and requiring assistance. Such signals are contained in Annex IV to these
Regulations.
100
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27—CONTINUED
(g) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length, except when engaged in
diving operations, is not required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in
this Rule.
(h) The signals prescribed in this Rule are not signals of vessels in distress
and requiring assistance. Such signals are contained in Annex IV to these
Rules.
101
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 28
Vessels Constrained by Their Draft
A vessel constrained by her draft may, in addition to the lights prescribed for
power-driven vessels in Rule 23, exhibit where they can best be seen three
all-round red lights in a vertical line, or a cylinder. Vessel constrained by her
draft.
Vessel constrained by her draft.
102
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 28
[Reserved]
103
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 29
Pilot Vessels
(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit:
(i) at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the
upper being white and the lower red;
(ii) when underway, in addition, sidelights and a sternlight;
(iii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in subparagraph
(i), the light, lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30 for vessels at anchor.
(b) A pilot vessel when not engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit the lights
or shapes prescribed for a similar vessel of her length.
Vessel engaged on pilotage duty—underway. Same for Inland.
104
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 29
Pilot Vessels
(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit:
(b) at or near the masthead, two all-round lights in a vertical line, the upper
being white and the lower red;
(i) when underway, in addition, sidelights and a sternlight; and
(ii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in subparagraph
(c) (i), the anchor light, lights, or shape prescribed in Rule 30 for anchored
vessels.
(d) A pilot vessel when not engaged on pilotage duty shall exhibit the lights
or shapes prescribed for a vessel of her length.
Vessel engaged on pilotage duty—at anchor; vessel of less than

50 meters in length. Same for International.
105
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30
Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
(a) A vessel at anchor shall exhibit where it can best be seen:
(i) in the fore part, an all-round white light or one ball;
(ii) at or near the stern and at a lower level than the light prescribed in
subparagraph (i), an all-round white light.
(b) A vessel of less than 50 meters in length may exhibit an all-round white
light where it can best be seen instead of the lights prescribed in paragraph
(a) of this Rule.
(c) A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 meters and more in length
shall, also use the available working or equivalent lights to illuminate her
decks.
Vessel at anchor—less than 50 meters in length. Same for Inland.
106
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30
Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
(a) A vessel at anchor shall exhibit where it can best be seen:
(i) in the fore part, an all-round white light or one ball; and
(ii) at or near the stern and at a lower level than the light prescribed in
subparagraph (i), an all-round white light.
(b) A vessel of less than 50 meters in length may exhibit an all-round white
light where it can best be seen instead of the lights prescribed in paragraph
(a) of this Rule.
(c) A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 meters or more in length
shall, also use the available working or equivalent lights to illuminate her
decks.
Vessel at anchor with deck illumination. Same for International.
107
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30—CONTINUED
(d) A vessel aground shall exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or
(b) of this Rule and in addition, where they can best be seen:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line;
(ii) three balls in a vertical line.
Vessel aground. Same for Inland.
108
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30—CONTINUED
(d) A vessel aground shall exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or
(b) of this Rule and in addition, if practicable, where they can best be seen:
(i) two all-round red lights in a vertical line; and
(ii) three balls in a vertical line.
Vessel aground—less than 50 meters in length.

109
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30—CONTINUED
(e) A vessel of less than 7 meters in length, when at anchor, not in or near
a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage, or where other vessels normally
navigate, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shape prescribed in
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule. (f) A vessel of less than 12 meters in
length, when aground, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes
prescribed in subparagraphs (d)(i) and (ii) of this Rule.
110
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30—CONTINUED
(e) A vessel of less than 7 meters in length, when at anchor, not in or near
a narrow channel, fairway, anchorage, or where other vessels normally
navigate, shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shape prescribed in
paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule.
(f) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length when aground shall not be
required to exhibit the lights or shapes prescribed in subparagraphs (d)(i)
and (ii) of this Rule.
(g) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length, when at anchor in a special
anchorage area designated by the Secretary, shall not be required to exhibit
the anchor lights and shapes required by this Rule.
111
—INTERNATIONAL—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 31
Seaplanes
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane or a WIG craft to exhibit lights and
shapes of the characteristics or in the positions prescribed in the Rules of
this Part she shall exhibit lights and shapes as closely similar in
characteristics and position as is possible.
112
—INLAND—
Lights and Shapes
RULE 31
Seaplanes
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane to exhibit lights and shapes of the
characteristics or in the positions prescribed in the Rules of this Part she
shall exhibit lights and shapes as closely similar in characteristics and
position as is possible.
113
—INTERNATIONAL—
Sound and Light Signals
PART D—SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS
RULE 32
Definitions
(a) The word “whistle” means any sound signaling appliance capable of
producing the prescribed blasts and which complies with the specifications
in Annex Ill to these Regulations.
(b) The term “short blast” means a blast of about one second’s duration.
(c) The term “prolonged blast” means a blast of from four to six seconds’
duration.
RULE 33
Equipment for Sound Signals
(a) A vessel of 12 meters or more in length shall be provided with a
whistle, a vessel of 20 meters or more in length shall be provided with a bell
in addition to a whistle, and a vessel of 100 meters or more in length shall,
in addition, be provided with a gong, the tone and sound of which cannot be
confused with that of the bell. The whistle, bell and gong shall comply with
the specifications in Annex lIl to these Regulations. The bell or gong or both
may be replaced by other equipment having the same respective sound
characteristics, provided that manual sounding of the prescribed signals
shall always be possible.
(b) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall not be obliged to carry
the sound signaling appliances prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule but if
she does not, she shall be provided with some other means of making an
efficient sound signal.
114
—INLAND—
PART D—SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS
RULE 32
Definitions
(a) The word “whistle” means any sound signaling appliance capable of
producing the prescribed blasts and which complies with specifications in
Annex lIl to these Rules.
(b) The term “short blast” means a blast of about 1 second’s duration.
(c) The term “prolonged blast” means a blast of from 4 to 6 seconds’
duration.
RULE 33
Equipment for Sound Signals
(a) A vessel of 12 meters or more in length shall be provided with a whistle
and a bell and a vessel of 100 meters or more in length shall, in addition, be
provided with a gong, the tone and sound of which cannot be confused with
that of the bell. The whistle, bell and gong shall comply with the
specifications in Annex lII to these Rules. The bell or gong or both may be
replaced by other equipment having the same respective sound
characteristics, provided that manual sounding of the prescribed signals
shall always be possible.
(b) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall not be obliged to carry
the sound signaling appliances prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule but
if she does not, she shall be provided with some other means of making an
efficient sound signal.
115
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 34
Maneuvering and Warning Signals
(a) When vessels are in sight of one another, a power-driven vessel
underway, when maneuvering as authorized or required by these Rules,
shall indicate that maneuver by the following signals on her whistle:
− one short blast to mean “I am altering my course to starboard”;
− two short blasts to mean “I am altering my course to port”;
− three short blasts to mean “I am operating astern propulsion”.
(b) Any vessel may supplement the whistle signals prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule by light signals, repeated as appropriate, while
the maneuver is being carried out:
(i) these light signals shall have the following significance:
− one flash to mean “I am altering my course to starboard”;
− two flashes to mean “I am altering my course to port”;
− three flashes to mean “I am operating astern propulsion”;
(ii) the duration of each flash shall be about one second, the interval
between flashes shall be about one second, and the interval between
successive signals shall be not less than ten seconds;
(iii) the light used for this signal shall, if fitted, be an all-round white
light, visible at a minimum range of 5 miles, and shall comply with the
provisions of Annex I to these Regulations.
116
—INLAND—
RULE 34
Maneuvering and Warning Signals
(a) When power-driven vessels are in sight of one another and meeting or
crossing at a distance within half a mile of each other, each vessel
underway, when maneuvering as authorized or required by these Rules:
(i) shall indicate that maneuver by the following signals on her whistle:
one short blast to mean “I intend to leave you on my port side”; two
short blasts to mean “I intend to leave you on my starboard side”; and
three short blasts to mean “I am operating astern propulsion”.
(ii) upon hearing the one or two blast signal of the other shall, if in
agreement, sound the same whistle signal and take the steps
necessary to effect a safe passing. If, however, from any cause, the
vessel doubts the safety of the proposed maneuver, she shall sound
the danger signal specified in paragraph (d) of this Rule and each
vessel shall take appropriate precautionary action until a safe passing
agreement is made.
(b) A vessel may supplement the whistle signals prescribed in paragraph
(a) of this Rule by light signals:
(i) These signals shall have the following significance: one flash to
mean “I intend to leave you on my port side”; two flashes to mean “I
intend to leave you on my starboard side”; three flashes to mean “I am
operating astern propulsion”;
(ii) The duration of each flash shall be about 1 second; and
(iii) The light used for this signal shall, if fitted, be one all-round white or
yellow light, visible at a minimum range of 2 miles, synchronized with
the whistle, and shall comply with the provisions of Annex I to these
Rules.
117
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 34—CONTINUED
(c) When in sight of one another in a narrow channel or fairway:
(i) a vessel intending to overtake another shall in compliance with Rule
9(e)(i) indicate her intention by the following signals on her whistle:
− two prolonged blasts followed by one short blast to mean “I intend
to overtake you on your starboard side”;
− two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts to mean “I
intend to overtake you on your port side”.
(ii) the vessel about to be overtaken when acting in accordance with
Rule 9(e)(i) shall indicate her agreement by the following signal on her
whistle:
− one prolonged, one short, one prolonged and one short blast, in
that order.
(d) When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and
from any cause either vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of
the other, or is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other
to avoid collision, the vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt
by giving at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle. Such signal may
be supplemented by a light signal of at least five short and rapid flashes.
(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other
vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound one
prolonged blast. Such signal shall be answered with a prolonged blast by
any approaching vessel that may be within hearing around the bend or
behind the intervening obstruction.
(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at a distance apart of more than 100
meters, one whistle only shall be used for giving maneuvering and warning
signals.
118
—INLAND—
RULE 34—CONTINUED
(c) When in sight of one another:
(i) a power-driven vessel intending to overtake another power-driven
vessel shall indicate her intention by the following signals on her
whistle: one short blast to mean “I intend to overtake you on your
starboard side”; two short blasts to mean “I intend to overtake you on
your port side”; and
(ii) the power-driven vessel about to be overtaken shall, if in
agreement, sound a similar sound signal. If in doubt she shall sound
the danger signal prescribed in paragraph (d).
(d) When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and
from any cause either vessel fails to understand the intentions or actions of
the other, or is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the other
to avoid collision, the vessel in doubt shall immediately indicate such doubt
by giving at least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle. This signal may
be supplemented by a light signal of at least five short and rapid flashes.
(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other
vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound one
prolonged blast. This signal shall be answered with a prolonged blast by any
approaching vessel that may be within hearing around the bend or behind
the intervening obstruction.
(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at a distance apart of more than 100
meters, one whistle only shall be used for giving maneuvering and warning
signals.
(g) When a power-driven vessel is leaving a dock or berth, she shall sound
one prolonged blast.
(h) A vessel that reaches agreement with another vessel in a headon,
crossing, or overtaking situation, as for example, by using the
radiotelephone as prescribed by the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge
Radiotelephone Act (85 Stat. 164; 33 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.), is not obliged to
sound the whistle signals prescribed by this Rule, but may do so. If
agreement is not reached, then whistle signals shall be exchanged in a
timely manner and shall prevail.
119
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 35
Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
In or near an area of restricted visibility, whether by day or night, the signals
prescribed in this Rule shall be used as follows:
(a) A power-driven vessel making way through the water shall sound at
intervals of not more than 2 minutes one prolonged blast.
(b) A power-driven vessel underway but stopped and making no way
through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes two
prolonged blasts in succession with an interval of about 2 seconds between
them.
(c) A vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to
maneuver, a vessel constrained by her draft, a sailing vessel, a vessel
engaged in fishing and a vessel engaged in towing or pushing another
vessel shall, instead of the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this
Rule, sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes three blasts in
succession, namely one prolonged followed by two short blasts.
(d) A vessel engaged in fishing, when at anchor, and a vessel restricted in
her ability to maneuver when carrying out her work at anchor, shall instead
of the signals prescribed in paragraph (g) of this Rule sound the signal
prescribed in paragraph (c) of this Rule.
(e) A vessel towed or if more than one vessel is towed the last vessel of
the tow, if manned, shall at intervals of not more than 2 minutes sound four
blasts in succession, namely one prolonged followed by three short blasts.
When practicable, this signal shall be made immediately after the signal
made by the towing vessel.
(f) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly
vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this
Rule.
120
—INLAND—
RULE 35
Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
In or near an area of restricted visibility, whether by day or night, the signals
prescribed in this Rule shall be used as follows:
(a) A power-driven vessel making way through the water shall sound at
intervals of not more than 2 minutes one prolonged blast.
(b) A power-driven vessel underway but stopped and making no way
through the water shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes two
prolonged blasts in succession with an interval of about 2 seconds between
them.
(c) A vessel not under command; a vessel restricted in her ability to
maneuver, whether underway or at anchor; a sailing vessel; a vessel
engaged in fishing, whether underway or at anchor; and a vessel engaged
in towing or pushing another vessel shall, instead of the signals prescribed
in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule, sound at intervals of not more than 2
minutes, three blasts in succession; namely, one prolonged followed by two
short blasts.
(d) A vessel towed or if more than one vessel is towed the last vessel of
the tow, if manned, shall at intervals of not more than 2 minutes sound four
blasts in succession; namely, one prolonged followed by three short blasts.
When practicable, this signal shall be made immediately after the signal
made by the towing vessel.
(e) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly
vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this
Rule.
121
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 35—CONTINUED
(g) A vessel at anchor shall at intervals of not more than one minute ring
the bell rapidly for about 5 seconds. In a vessel of 100 meters or more in
length the bell shall be sounded in the forepart of the vessel and
immediately after the ringing of the bell the gong shall be sounded rapidly
for about 5 seconds in the after part of the vessel. A vessel at anchor may in
addition sound three blasts in succession, namely one short, one prolonged
and one short blast, to give warning of her position and of the possibility of
collision to an approaching vessel.
(h) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and if required the gong
signal prescribed in paragraph (g) of this Rule and shall, in addition, give
three separate and distinct strokes on the bell immediately before and after
the rapid ringing of the bell. A vessel aground may in addition sound an
appropriate whistle signal.
(i) A vessel of 12 meters or more but less than 20 meters in length shall
not be obliged to give the bell signals prescribed in paragraphs (g) and (h) of
this Rule. However, if she does not, she shall make some other efficient
sound signal at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.
(j) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall not be obliged to give the
above-mentioned signals but, if she does not, shall make some other
efficient sound signal at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.
(k) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may in addition to the
signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (g) of this Rule sound an identity
signal consisting of four short blasts.
122
—INLAND—
RULE 35—CONTINUED
(f) A vessel at anchor shall at intervals of not more than 1 minute ring the
bell rapidly for about 5 seconds. In a vessel of 100 meters or more in length
the bell shall be sounded in the forepart of the vessel and immediately after
the ringing of the bell the gong shall be sounded rapidly for about 5 seconds
in the after part of the vessel. A vessel at anchor may in addition sound
three blasts in succession; namely, one short, one prolonged and one short
blast, to give warning of her position and of the possibility of collision to an
approaching vessel.
(g) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and if required the gong
signal prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule and shall, in addition, give
three separate and distinct strokes on the bell immediately before and after
the rapid ringing of the bell. A vessel aground may in addition sound an
appropriate whistle signal.
(h) A vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall not be obliged to give
the above-mentioned signals but, if she does not, shall make some other
efficient sound signal at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.
(i) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may in addition to the
signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or (f) of this Rule sound an identity
signal consisting of four short blasts.
(j) The following vessels shall not be required to sound signals as
prescribed in paragraph (f) of this Rule when anchored in a special
anchorage area designated by the Secretary:
(i) a vessel of less than 20 meters in length; and
(ii) a barge, canal boat, scow, or other nondescript craft.
123
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 36
Signals to Attract Attention
If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel, any vessel may make
light or sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized
elsewhere in these Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the
direction of the danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel. Any
light to attract the attention of another vessel shall be such that it cannot be
mistaken for any aid to navigation. For the purpose of this Rule the use of
high intensity intermittent or revolving lights, such as strobe lights, shall be
avoided.
124
—INLAND—
RULE 36
Signals to Attract Attention
If necessary to attract the attention of another vessel, any vessel may make
light or sound signals that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorized
elsewhere in these Rules, or may direct the beam of her searchlight in the
direction of the danger, in such a way as not to embarrass any vessel.
125
—INTERNATIONAL—
RULE 37
Distress Signals
When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit
the signals described in Annex IV to these Regulations.
DISTRESS SIGNALS
72 COLREGS
126
—INLAND—
RULE 37
Distress Signals
When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit
the signals described in Annex IV to these Rules.
The distress signals for inland waters are the same as those displayed on the facing page for
international waters with the following additional signal described:
A high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals

from 50 to 70 times per minute.
127
—INTERNATIONAL—
Exemptions
PART E—EXEMPTIONS
RULE 38
Exemptions
Any vessel (or class of vessels) provided that she complies with the
requirements of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at
Sea, 1960, the keel of which is laid or which is at a corresponding stage of
construction before the entry into force of these Regulations may be
exempted from compliance therewith as follows:
(a) The installation of lights with ranges prescribed in Rule 22, until four
years after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.
(b) The installation of lights with color specifications as prescribed in
Section 7 of Annex I to these Regulations, until four years after the date of
entry into force of these Regulations.
(c) The repositioning of lights as a result of conversion from Imperial to
metric units and rounding off measurement figures, permanent exemption.
128
—INLAND—
Exemptions
PART E—EXEMPTIONS
RULE 38
Exemptions
Any vessel or class of vessels, the keel of which is laid or which is at a
corresponding stage of construction before December 24, 1980, provided
that she complies with the requirements of—
(a) The Act of June 7, 1897 (30 Stat. 96), as amended (33 U.S.C. 154-
232) for vessels navigating the waters subject to that statute;
(b) Section 4233 of the Revised Statutes (33 U.S.C. 301-356) for vessels
navigating the waters subject to that statute;
(c) The Act of February 8, 1895 (28 Stat. 645), as amended (33 U.S.C.
241-295) for vessels navigating the waters subject to that statute; or
(d) Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Act of April 25, 1940 (54 Stat. 163), as
amended (46 U.S.C. 526 b, c, and d) for motorboats navigating the waters
subject to that statute; shall be exempted from compliance with the technical
Annexes to these Rules as follows:
(i) the installation of lights with ranges prescribed in Rule 22, until 4
years after the effective date of these Rules, except that vessels of less
than 20 meters in length are permanently exempt;
(ii) the installation of lights with color specifications as prescribed in
Annex I to these Rules, until 4 years after the effective date of these
Rules, except that vessels of less than 20 meters in length are
permanently exempt;
(iii) the repositioning of lights as a result of conversion to metric units
and rounding off measurement figures, are permanently exempt; and
129
—INTERNATIONAL—
Exemptions
RULE 38—CONTINUED
(d)
(i) The repositioning of masthead lights on vessels of less than 150
meters in length, resulting from the prescriptions of Section 3(a) of
Annex I to these Regulations, permanent exemption.
(ii) The repositioning of masthead lights on vessels of 150 meters or
more in length, resulting from the prescriptions of Section 3(a) of Annex
I to these Regulations, until 9 years after the date of entry into force of
these Regulations.
(e) The repositioning of masthead lights resulting from the prescriptions of
Section 2(b) of Annex I to these Regulations, until 9 years after the date of
entry into force of these Regulations.
(f) The repositioning of sidelights resulting from the prescriptions of
(g) Sections 2(g) and 3(b) of Annex I to these Regulations, until 9 years
after the date of entry into force of these Regulations.
(h) The requirements for sound signal appliances prescribed in Annex lIl to
these Regulations, until 9 years after the date of entry into force of these
Regulations.
(i) The repositioning of all-round lights resulting from the prescription of
Section 9(b) of Annex I to these Regulations, permanent exemption.
130
—INLAND—
Exemptions
RULE 38—CONTINUED
(d) (continued)
(iv) the horizontal repositioning of masthead lights prescribed by Annex
I to these Rules:
(1) on vessels of less than 150 meters in length, permanent
exemption.
(2) on vessels of 150 meters or more in length, until 9 years after
the effective date of these Rules.
(v) the restructuring or repositioning of all lights to meet the
prescriptions of Annex I to these Rules, until 9 years after the effective
date of these Rules;
(vi) power-driven vessels of 12 meters or more but less than 20 meters
in length are permanently exempt from the provisions of Rule 23(a)(i)
and 23(a)(iv) provided that, in place of these lights, the vessel exhibits
a white light aft visible all round the horizon; and
(vii) the requirements for sound signal appliances prescribed in Annex
lIl to these Rules, until 9 years after the effective date of these Rules.
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ANNEX I -
Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes
1. Definition
The term “height above the hull” means height above the uppermost
continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the position vertically
beneath the location of the light.
2. Vertical positioning and spacing of lights

(a) On a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more in length the masthead
lights shall be placed as follows:
(i) the forward masthead light, or if only one masthead light is carried,
then that light, at a height above the hull of not less than 6 meters,
and, if the breadth of the vessel exceeds 6 meters, then at a height
above the hull not less than such breadth, so however that the light
need not be placed at a greater height above the hull than 12
meters;
(ii) when two masthead lights are carried the after one shall be at least
4.5 meters vertically higher than the forward one.
(b) The vertical separation of masthead lights of power-driven vessels shall
be such that in all normal conditions of trim the after light will be seen
over and separate from the forward light at a distance of 1000 meters
from the stem when viewed from sea level.
(c) The masthead light of a power-driven vessel of 12 meters but less than
20 meters in length shall be placed at a height above the gunwale of not
less than 2.5 meters.
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ANNEX I
33 CFR 84
Positioning and Technical Details of Lights and Shapes
§ 84.01 Definitions
(a) The term “height above the hull” means height above the uppermost
continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the position
vertically beneath the location of the light.
(b) High-speed craft means a craft capable of maximum speed in meters
per second (m/s) equal to or exceeding: 3.7∇0.1667; where ∇ =
displacement corresponding to the design waterline (meters3).
(c) The term “practical cut-off” means, for vessels 20 meters or more in
length, 12.5 percent of the minimum luminous intensity (Table 84.15(b))
corresponding to the greatest range of visibility for which the
requirements of Annex I are met.
(d) The term “Rule” or “Rules” means the Inland Navigation Rules
contained in Sec. 2 of the Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980 (Pub. L.
96-591, 94 Stat. 3415, 33 U.S.C. 2001, December 24, 1980) as
amended.
NOTE to paragraph (b): The same formula expressed in pounds and knots is
maximum speed in knots (kts) equal to or exceeding 1.98 (lbs) 3.7∇0.1667; where ∇ =
displacement corresponding to design waterline in pounds.
§ 84.03 Vertical positioning and spacing of lights

(a) On a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more in length the masthead
lights shall be placed as follows:
(1) The forward masthead light, or if only one masthead light is carried,
then that light, at a height above the hull of not less than 5 meters,
and, if the breadth of the vessel exceeds 5 meters, then at a height
above the hull not less than such breadth, so however that the light
need not be placed at a greater height above the hull than 8 meters;
(2) When two masthead lights are carried the after one shall be at least
2 meters vertically higher than the forward one.
(b) The vertical separation of the masthead lights of power-driven vessels
shall be such that in all normal conditions of trim the after light will be
seen over and separate from the forward light at a distance of 1000
meters from the stem when viewed from water level.
(c) The masthead light of a power-driven vessel of 12 meters but less than
20 meters in length shall be placed at a height above the gunwale of not
less than 2.5 meters.
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ANNEX I—Continued
(d) A power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length may carry the
uppermost light at a height of less than 2.5 meters above the gunwale.
When, however, a masthead light is carried in addition to sidelights and
a sternlight or the all-round light prescribed in rule 23(c)(i) is carried in
addition to sidelights, then such masthead light or allround light shall be
carried at least 1 meter higher than the sidelights.
(e) One of the two or three masthead lights prescribed for a power-driven
vessel when engaged in towing or pushing another vessel shall be
placed in the same position as either the forward masthead light or the
after masthead light; provided that, if carried on the aftermast, the
lowest after masthead light shall be at least 4.5 meters vertically higher
than the forward masthead light.
(f)
(i) The masthead light or lights prescribed in Rule 23(a) shall be so
placed as to be above and clear of all other lights and obstructions
except as described in subparagraph (ii).
(ii) When it is impracticable to carry the all-round lights prescribed by
Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 below the masthead lights, they may be
carried above the after masthead light(s) or vertically in between
the forward masthead light(s) and after masthead light(s), provided
that in the latter case the requirement of Section 3(c) of this Annex
shall be complied with.
(g) The sidelights of a power-driven vessel shall be placed at a height
above the hull not greater than three quarters of that of the forward
masthead light. They shall not be so low as to be interfered with by deck
lights.
(h) The sidelights, if in a combined lantern and carried on a power-driven
vessel of less than 20 meters in length, shall be placed not less than 1
meter below the masthead light.
(i) When the Rules prescribe two or three lights to be carried in a vertical
line, they shall be spaced as follows:
(i) on a vessel of 20 meters in length or more such lights shall be
spaced not less than 2 meters apart, and the lowest of these lights
shall, except where a towing light is required, be placed at a height
of not less than 4 meters above the hull;
(ii) on a vessel of less than 20 meters in length such lights shall be
spaced not less than 1 meter apart and the lowest of these lights
of not less than 2 meters above the gunwale;
(iii) when three lights are carried they shall be equally spaced.
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ANNEX I—Continued
(d) The masthead light, or the all-round light described in Rule 23(c), of a
power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length shall be carried at
least one meter higher than the sidelights.
(e) One of the two or three masthead lights prescribed for a power-driven
vessel when engaged in towing or pushing another vessel shall be
placed in the same position as either the forward masthead light or the
after masthead light, provided that the lowest after masthead light shall
be at least 2 meters vertically higher than the highest forward masthead
light.
(f) (f)
(1) The masthead light or lights prescribed in Rule 23(a) shall be so
placed as to be above and clear of all other lights and obstructions
except as described in paragraph (f)(2) of this section.
(2) When it is impracticable to carry the all-round lights prescribed in
Rule 27(b)(i) below the masthead lights, they may be carried above
the after masthead light(s) or vertically in between the forward
masthead light(s) and after masthead light(s), provided that in the
latter case the requirement of § 84.05(d) shall be complied with.
(g) The sidelights of a power-driven vessel shall be placed at least one
meter lower than the forward masthead light. They shall not be so low
as to be interfered with by deck lights.
(h) [Reserved]
(i) When the Rules prescribe two or three lights to be carried in a vertical
line, they shall be spaced as follows:
(1) On a vessel of 20 meters in length or more such lights shall be
spaced not less than 1 meter apart, and the lowest of these lights
of not less than 4 meters above the hull;
(2) On a vessel of less than 20 meters in length such lights shall be
spaced not less than 1 meter apart and the lowest of these lights
of not less than 2 meters above the gunwale;
(3) When three lights are carried they shall be equally spaced.
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ANNEX I—Continued
(j) The lower of the two all-round lights prescribed for a vessel when
engaged in fishing shall be at a height above the sidelights not less than
twice the distance between the two vertical lights.
(k) The forward anchor light prescribed in Rule 30(a)(i), when two are
carried, shall not be less than 4.5 meters above the after one. On a
vessel of 50 meters or more in length this forward anchor light shall be
placed at a height of not less than 6 meters above the hull.
3. Horizontal positioning and spacing of lights

(a) When two masthead lights are prescribed for a power-driven vessel, the
horizontal distance between them shall not be less than one half of the
length of the vessel but need not be more than 100 meters. The forward
light shall be placed not more than one quarter of the length of the
vessel from the stem.
(b) On a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more in length the sidelights
shall not be placed in front of the forward masthead lights. They shall
be placed at or near the side of the vessel (c) When the lights
prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 are placed vertically between the
forward masthead light(s) and the after masthead light(s) these all-round
lights shall be placed at a horizontal distance of not less than 2 meters
from the fore and aft centerline of the vessel in the athwartship direction.
(c) When only one masthead light is prescribed for a power-driven vessel,
this light shall be exhibited forward of amidships; except that a vessel of
less then 20 meters in length need not exhibit this light forward of
amidships but shall exhibit it as far forward as is practicable.
136
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ANNEX I—Continued
(j) The lower of the two all-round lights prescribed for a vessel when
engaged in fishing shall be at a height above the sidelights not less than
twice the distance between the two vertical lights.
(k) The forward anchor light prescribed in Rule 30(a)(i), when two are
carried, shall not be less than 4.5 meters above the after one. On a
vessel of 50 meters or more in length this forward anchor light shall be
placed at a height of not less than 6 meters above the hull.
§ 84.05 Horizontal positioning and spacing of lights

(a) Except as specified in paragraph (e) of this section, when two masthead
lights are prescribed for a power-driven vessel, the horizontal distance
between them must not be less than one quarter of the length of the
vessel but need not be more than 50 meters. The forward light shall be
placed not more than one half of the length of the vessel from the stem.
(b) On a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more in length the sidelights
shall not be placed in front of the forward masthead lights. They shall
be placed at or near the side of the vessel.
(c) When the lights prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) are placed vertically between
the forward masthead light(s) and the after masthead light(s) these all-
round lights shall be placed at a horizontal distance of not less than 2
meters from the fore and aft centerline of the vessel in the athwartship
direction.
(d) When only one masthead light is prescribed for a power-driven vessel,
this light must be exhibited forward of amidships. For a vessel of less
than 20 meters in length, the vessel shall exhibit one masthead light as
far forward as is practicable.
(e) On power-driven vessels 50 meters but less than 60 meters in length
operated on the Western Rivers, and those waters specified in §89.25,
the horizontal distance between masthead lights shall not be less than
10 meters.
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ANNEX I—Continued
4. Details of location of direction-indicating lights for fishing

vessels, dredgers and vessels engaged in underwater operations
(a) The light indicating the direction of the outlying gear from a vessel
engaged in fishing as prescribed in Rule 26(c)(ii) shall be placed at a
horizontal distance of not less than 2 meters and not more than 6
meters away from the two all-round red and white lights. This light shall
be placed not higher than the all-round white light prescribed in Rule
26(c)(i) and not lower than the sidelights.
(b) The lights and shapes on a vessel engaged in dredging or underwater
operations to indicate the obstructed side and/or the side on which it is
safe to pass, as prescribed in Rule 27(d)(i) and (ii), shall be placed at
the maximum practical horizontal distance, but in no case less than 2
meters, from the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) and (ii). In
no case shall the upper of these lights or shapes be at a greater height
than the lower of the three lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i)
and (ii).
138
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ANNEX I— Continued
§ 84.07 Details of location of direction-indicating lights for

fishing vessels, dredgers and vessels engaged in underwater
operations
(a) The light indicating the direction of the outlying gear from a vessel
engaged in fishing as prescribed in Rule 26(c)(ii) shall be placed at a
horizontal distance of not less than 2 meters and not more than 6
meters away from the two all-round red and white lights. This light shall
be placed not higher than the all-round white light prescribed in Rule
26(c)(i) and not lower than the sidelights.
(b) The lights and shapes on a vessel engaged in dredging or underwater
operations to indicate the obstructed side and/or the side on which it is
safe to pass, as prescribed in Rule 27(d)(i) and (ii), shall be placed at
the maximum practical horizontal distance, but in no case less than 2
meters, from the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i) and (ii). In
no case shall the upper of these lights or shapes be at a greater height
than the lower of the three lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 27(b)(i)
and (ii).
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ANNEX I—Continued
5. Screens for sidelights

The sidelights of vessels of 20 meters or more in length shall be fitted with
inboard screens painted matt black, and meeting the requirements of
Section 9 of this Annex. On vessels of less than 20 meters in length the
sidelights, if necessary to meet the requirements of Section 9 of this Annex,
shall be fitted with inboard matt black screens. With a combined lantern,
using a single vertical filament and a very narrow division between the green
and red sections, external screens need not be fitted.
6. Shapes
(a) Shapes shall be black and of the following sizes:
(i) a ball shall have a diameter of not less than 0.6 meter;
(ii) a cone shall have a base diameter of not less than 0.6 meter and a
height equal to its diameter;
(iii) a cylinder shall have a diameter of at least 0.6 meter and a height
of twice its diameter;
(iv) a diamond shape shall consist of two cones as defined in (ii) above
having a common base.
(b) The vertical distance between shapes shall be at least 1.5 meter.
(c) In a vessel of less than 20 meters in length shapes of lesser dimensions
but commensurate with the size of the vessel may be used and the
distance apart may be correspondingly reduced.
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ANNEX I— Continued
§ 84.09 Screens
(a) The sidelights of vessels of 20 meters or more in length shall be fitted
with mat black inboard screens and meet the requirements of § 84.17.
On vessels of less than 20 meters in length, the sidelights, if necessary
to meet the requirements of § 84.17, shall be fitted with mat black
inboard screens. With a combined lantern, using a single vertical
filament and a very narrow division between the green and red sections,
external screens need not be fitted.
(b) On power-driven vessels less than 12 meters in length constructed after
July 31, 1983, the masthead light, or the all-round light described in
Rule 23(c) shall be screened to prevent direct illumination of the vessel
forward of the operator’s position.
§ 84.11 Shapes
(a) Shapes shall be black and of the following sizes:
(1) A ball shall have a diameter of not less than 0.6 meter;
(2) A cone shall have a base diameter of not less than 0.6 meter and a
height equal to its diameter;
(3) A diamond shape shall consist of two cones (as defined in
Paragraph (a)(2) of this section) having a common base.
(b) The vertical distance between shapes shall be at least 1.5 meter.
(c) In a vessel of less than 20 meters in length shapes of lesser dimensions
but commensurate with the size of the vessel may be used and the
distance apart may be correspondingly reduced.
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ANNEX I—Continued
7. Color specification of lights

(a) The chromaticity of all navigation lights shall conform to the following
standards, which lie within the boundaries of the area of the diagram
specified for each color by the International Commission on Illumination
(CIE).
The boundaries of the area for each color are given by indicating the
corner coordinates, which are as follows:
(i) White:
x 0.525 0.525 0.452 0.310 0.310 0.443
y 0.382 0.440 0.440 0.348 0.283 0.382
(ii) Green:
x 0.028 0.009 0.300 0.203
y 0.385 0.723 0.511 0.356
(iii) Red:
x 0.680 0.660 0.735 0.721
y 0.320 0.320 0.265 0.259
(iv) Yellow:
x 0.612 0.618 0.575 0.575
y 0.382 0.382 0.425 0.406
8. Intensity of lights
(a) The minimum luminous intensity of lights shall be calculated by using
the formula:
I = 3.43 x 106 x T x D2 x K-D
where:
I is luminous intensity in candelas under service conditions.
T is threshold factor 2 x 10-7 lux.
D is range of visibility (luminous range) of the light in nautical miles,
K is atmospheric transmissivity. For prescribed lights the value of K
shall be 0.8, corresponding to a meteorological visibility of
approximately 13 nautical miles.
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ANNEX I—Continued
§ 84.13 Color specification of lights

(a) The chromaticity of all navigation lights shall conform to the following
standards, which lie within the boundaries of the area of the diagram
specified for each color by the International Commission on Illumination
(CIE), in the “Colors of Light Signals”, which is incorporated by
reference. It is Publication CIE No. 2.2. (TC-1.6), 1975, and is available
from the Illumination Engineering Society, 345 East 47th Street, New
York, NY 10017. It is also available for inspection at the Office of the
Federal Register, Room 8401, 1100 L Street N.W., Washington, D.C.
20408. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of
the Federal Register.
(b) The boundaries of the area for each color are given by indicating the
corner coordinates, which are as follows:
(1) White:
x 0.525 0.525 0.452 0.310 0.310 0.443
y 0.382 0.440 0.440 0.348 0.283 0.382
(2) Green:
x 0.028 0.009 0.300 0.203
y 0.385 0.723 0.511 0.356
(3) Red:
x 0.680 0.660 0.735 0.721
y 0.320 0.320 0.265 0.259
(4) Yellow:
x 0.612 0.618 0.575 0.575
y 0.382 0.382 0.425 0.406
§ 84.15 Intensity of lights

(a) The minimum luminous intensity of lights shall be calculated by using
the formula:
l = 3.43 x 106 x T x D2 x K-D
where:
I is luminous intensity in candelas under service conditions,
T is threshold factor 2 x 10-7 lux,
D is range of visibility (luminous range) of the light in nautical miles,
K is atmospheric transmissivity. For prescribed lights the value of K
shall be 0.8, corresponding to a meteorological visibility of
approximately 13 nautical miles.
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ANNEX I—Continued
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in the following
table:
Range of visibility Minimum luminous
(luminous range) of light intensity of light in
in nautical miles candelas for K = 0.8
D I
1 0.9
2 4.3
3 12
4 27
5 52
6 94
Note: The maximum luminous intensity of navigation lights should be limited to avoid
undue glare. This shall not be achieved by a variable control of the luminous
intensity.
9. Horizontal sectors
(a)
(i) In the forward direction, sidelights as fitted on the vessel shall show
the minimum required intensities. The intensities shall decrease to
reach practical cut-off between 1 degree and 3 degrees outside the
prescribed sectors.
(ii) For sternlights and masthead lights and at 22.5 degrees abaft the
beam for sidelights, the minimum required intensities shall be
maintained over the arc of the horizon up to 5 degrees within the
limits of the sectors prescribed in Rule 21. From 5 degrees within
the prescribed sectors the intensity may decrease by 50 percent up
to the prescribed limits; it shall decrease steadily to reach practical
cut-off at not more than 5 degrees outside the prescribed sectors.
(b)
(i) All-round lights shall be so located as not to be obscured by masts,
topmasts or structures within angular sectors of more than 6
degrees, except anchor lights prescribed in Rule 30, which need
not be placed at an impracticable height above the hull.
(ii) If it is impracticable to comply with paragraph (b)(i) of this section
by exhibiting only one all-round light, two all-round lights shall be
used suitably positioned or screened so that they appear, as far as
practicable, as one light at a distance of one mile.”
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ANNEX I—Continued
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in Table 84.15(b).
Table 84.15(b)
Range of visibility Minimum luminous
(luminous range) of light intensity of light in
in nautical miles candelas for K = 0.8
D I
1 0.9
2 4.3
3 12
4 27
5 52
6 94
§ 84.17 Horizontal sectors

(a)
(1) In the forward direction, sidelights as fitted on the vessel shall show
the minimum required intensities. The intensities shall decrease to
reach practical cut-off between 1 and 3 degrees outside the
prescribed sectors.
(2) For sternlights and masthead lights and at 22.5 degrees abaft the
beam for sidelights, the minimum required intensities shall be
maintained over the arc of the horizon up to 5 degrees within the
limits of the sectors prescribed in Rule 21. From 5 degrees within
the prescribed sectors the intensity may decrease by 50 percent up
to the prescribed limits; it shall decrease steadily to reach practical
cutoff at not more than 5 degrees outside the prescribed sectors.
(b) All-round lights shall be so located as not to be obscured by masts,
topmasts or structures within angular sectors of more than 6 degrees,
except anchor lights prescribed in Rule 30, which need not be placed at
an impracticable height above the hull, and the all-round white light
described in Rule 23(d), which may not be obscured at all.
(c) If it is impracticable to comply with paragraph (b) of this section by
exhibiting only one all-round light, two all-round lights shall be used
suitably positioned or screened to appear, as far as practicable, as one
light at a minimum distance of one nautical mile.
NOTE to paragraph (c): Two unscreened all-round lights that are 1.28 meters apart
or less will appear as one light to the naked eye at a distance of one nautical mile.
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ANNEX I—Continued
10. Vertical sectors

(a) The vertical sectors of electric lights as fitted, with the exception of lights
on sailing vessels underway shall ensure that:
(i) at least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all angles
from 5 degrees above to 5 degrees below the horizontal;
(ii) at least 60 percent of the required minimum intensity is maintained
from 7.5 degrees above to 7.5 degrees below the horizontal.
(b) In the case of sailing vessels underway the vertical sectors of electric
lights as fitted shall ensure that:
(i) at least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all angles
(ii) at least 50 percent of the required minimum intensity is maintained
from 25 degrees above to 25 degrees below the horizontal.
(c) In the case of lights other than electric these specifications shall be met
as closely as possible.
11. Intensity of non-electric lights

Non-electric lights shall so far as practicable comply with the minimum
intensities, as specified in the Table given in Section 8 of this Annex.
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ANNEX I—Continued
§ 84.19 Vertical sectors

(a) The vertical sectors of electric lights as fitted, with the exception of lights
on sailing vessels underway and on unmanned barges, shall ensure
that:
(1) At least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all angles
(2) At least 60 percent of the required minimum intensity is maintained
from 7.5 degrees above to 7.5 degrees below the horizontal.
(b) In the case of sailing vessels underway the vertical sectors of electric
lights as fitted shall ensure that:
(1) At least the required minimum intensity is maintained at all angles
(2) At least 50 percent of the required minimum intensity is maintained
from 25 degrees above to 25 degrees below the horizontal.
(c) In the case of unmanned barges the minimum required intensity of
electric lights as fitted shall be maintained on the horizontal.
(d) In the case of lights other than electric lights these specifications shall
be met as closely as possible.
§ 84.21 Intensity of non-electric lights

Non-electric lights shall so far as practicable comply with the minimum
intensities, as specified in the Table given in § 84.15.
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ANNEX I—Continued
12. Maneuvering light

Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 2(f) of this Annex the
maneuvering light described in Rule 34(b) shall be placed in the same fore
and aft vertical plane as the masthead light or lights and, where practicable,
at a minimum height of 2 meters vertically above the forward masthead light,
provided that it shall be carried not less than 2 meters vertically above or
below the after masthead light. On a vessel where only one masthead light
is carried the maneuvering light, if fitted, shall be carried where it can best
be seen, not less than 2 meters vertically apart from the masthead light.
13. High Speed Craft*

(a) The masthead light of high speed craft may be placed at a height
related to the breadth of the craft lower than that prescribed in paragraph
2(a)(i) of this annex, provided that the base angle of the isosceles triangles
formed by the sidelights and masthead light, when seen in end elevation, is
not less than 27°.
(b) On high-speed craft of 50 meters or more in length, the vertical
separation between foremast and mainmast light of 4.5 meters is required
by paragraph 29(a)(ii) of this annex and may be modified provided that such
distance shall not be less than the value determined by the following
formula:
(a + 17Ψ )C
y= +2
1000
where: y is the height of the mainmast light above the foremast light in
meters;
a is the height of the foremast light above the water surface in
service condition in meters;
Ψ is the trim in service conditions in degrees;
C is the horizontal separation of masthead lights in meters.
14. Approval
The construction of lights and shapes and the installation of lights on board
the vessel shall be to the satisfaction of the appropriate authority of the
State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly.
• Refers to the International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft, 1994 and the
International Code of Safety for High-Speed Craft, 2000.
148
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ANNEX I—Continued
§ 84.23 Maneuvering light

Notwithstanding the provisions of § 84.03(f), the maneuvering light
described in Rule 34(b) shall be placed approximately in the same fore and
aft vertical plane as the masthead light or lights and, where practicable, at a
minimum height of one-half meter vertically above the forward masthead
light, provided that it shall be carried not less than one-half meter vertically
above or below the after masthead light. On a vessel where only one
masthead light is carried the maneuvering light, if fitted, shall be carried
where it can best be seen, not less than one-half meter vertically apart from
the masthead light.
§ 84.24 High Speed Craft

(a) The masthead light of high speed craft with a length to breadth ratio of
less than 3.0 may be placed at a height related to the breadth lower
than that precribed in Sec. 84.03(a)(1), provided that the base angle of
the isosceles triangle formed by the sidelights and masthead light when
seen in end elevation is not less than 27 degrees as determined by the
formula in paragraph (b) of this section.
(b) The minimum height of masthead light above sidelights is to be
determined by the following formula: Tan 27°=x/y; where Y is the
horizontal distance between the sidelights and X is the height of the
forward masthead light.
§ 84.25 Approval [Reserved]
149
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ANNEX II -
Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels
Fishing in Close Proximity
1. General
The lights mentioned herein shall, if exhibited in pursuance of Rule 26(d), be
placed where they can best be seen. They shall be at least 0.9 meter apart
but at a lower level than lights prescribed in Rule 26(b)(i) and (c)(i). The
lights shall be visible all around the horizon at a distance of at least 1 mile
but at a lesser distance than the lights prescribed by these Rules for fishing
vessels.
2. Signals for trawlers

(a) Vessels of 20 meters or more in length when engaged in trawling,
whether using demersal or pelagic gear, shall exhibit:
(i) when shooting their nets: two white lights in a vertical line;
(ii) when hauling their nets: one white light over one red light in a
vertical line;
(iii) when the net has come fast upon an obstruction: two red lights in a
vertical line.
(b) Each vessel of 20 meters or more in length engaged in pair trawling
shall exhibit:
(i) by night, a searchlight directed forward and in the direction of the
other vessel of the pair;
(ii) when shooting or hauling their nets or when their nets have come
fast upon an obstruction, the lights prescribed in 2(a) above.
(c) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length engaged in trawling, whether
using demersal or pelagic gear, or engaged in pair trawling, may exhibit
the lights prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this section, as
appropriate.
3. Signals for purse seiners

Vessels engaged in fishing with purse seine gear may exhibit two yellow
lights in a vertical line. These lights shall flash alternately every second and
with equal light and occultation duration. These lights may be exhibited only
when the vessel is hampered by its fishing gear.
150
—INLAND—
ANNEX II
33 CFR 85
Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels
Fishing in Close Proximity
§85.1. General
The lights mentioned herein shall, if exhibited in pursuance of Rule 26(d), be
placed where they can best be seen. They shall be at least 0.9 meter apart
but at a lower level than lights prescribed in Rule 26(b)(i) and (c)(i)
contained in the Inland Navigational Rules Act of 1980. The lights shall be
visible all around the horizon at a distance of at least 1 mile but at a lesser
distance from the lights prescribed by these Rules for fishing vessels.
§ 85.3 Signals for trawlers

(a) Vessels when engaged in trawling, whether using demersal or pelagic
gear, may exhibit:
(1) When shooting their nets: two white lights in a vertical line;
(2) When hauling their nets: one white light over one red light in a
vertical line;
(3) When the net has come fast upon an obstruction: two red lights in a
vertical line.
(b) Each vessel engaged in pair trawling may exhibit:
(1) By night, a searchlight directed forward and in the direction of the
other vessel of the pair;
(2) When shooting or hauling their nets or when their nets have come
fast upon an obstruction, the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of
this section.
§ 85.5 Signals for purse seiners

Vessels engaged in fishing with purse seine gear may exhibit two yellow
lights in a vertical line. These lights shall flash alternately every second and
with equal light and occultation duration. These lights may be exhibited only
when the vessel is hampered by its fishing gear.
151
—INTERNATIONAL—
ANNEX III -
Technical Details of Sound Signal Appliances
1. Whistles
(a) Frequencies and range of audibility
The fundamental frequency of the signal shall lie within the range 70-700
Hz. The range of audibility of the signal from a whistle shall be determined
by those frequencies, which may include the fundamental and/or one or
more higher frequencies, which lie within the range 180-700 Hz (+/- 1%) for
a vessel of 20 meters or more in length, or 180-2100Hz (+/- 1%) for a vessel
of less than 20 meters in length and which provide the sound pressure
levels specified in paragraph 1(c) below.
(b) Limits of fundamental frequencies

To ensure a wide variety of whistle characteristics, the fundamental
frequency of a whistle shall be between the following limits:
(i) 70-200 Hz, for a vessel 200 meters or more in length;
(ii) 130-350 Hz, for a vessel 75 meters but less than 200 meters in
length;
(iii) 250-700 Hz, for a vessel less than 75 meters in length.
152
—INLAND—
ANNEX III
33 CFR 86
Technical Details of Sound Signal Appliances
SUBPART A—WHISTLES
§ 86.01 Frequencies and range of audibility
The fundamental frequency of the signal shall lie within the range 70-525
Hz. The range of audibility of the signal from a whistle shall be determined
by those frequencies, which may include the fundamental and/or one or
more higher frequencies, which lie within the frequency ranges and provide
the sound pressure levels specified in § 86.05.
§ 86.03 Limits of fundamental frequencies

To ensure a wide variety of whistle characteristics, the fundamental
frequency of a whistle shall be between the following limits:
(a) 70-200 Hz, for a vessel 200 meters or more in length;
(b) 130-350 Hz, for a vessel 75 meters but less than 200 meters in length;
(c) 250-525 Hz, for a vessel less than 75 meters in length.
153
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ANNEX III—Continued
(c) Sound signal intensity and range of audibility

A whistle fitted in a vessel shall provide, in the direction of
maximum intensity of the whistle and at a distance of 1 meter from it, a
sound pressure level in at least one 1/3-octave band within the range of
frequencies 180-700 Hz (+/- 1%) for a vessel of 20 meters or more in length,
or 180-2100Hz (+/- 1%) for a vessel of less than 20 meters in length, of not
less than the appropriate figure given in the table below.
1/3-octave band level

Length of vessel in at 1 meter in dB Audibility range in nautical
meters referred to 2x10-5 miles
N/m2
200 or more 143 2
75 but less than 200 138 1.5
20 but less than 75 130 1
Less than 20 120*1
115*2 0.5
111*3
NOTE: The range of audibility in the table above is for information and is
approximately the range at which a whistle may be heard on its forward axis with 90
percent probability in conditions of still air on board a vessel having average
background noise level at the listening posts (taken to be 68 dB in the octave band
centered on 250 Hz and 63 dB in the octave band centered on 500 Hz). In practice
the range at which a whistle may be heard is extremely variable and depends
critically on weather conditions; the values given can be regarded as typical but
under conditions of strong wind or high ambient noise level at the listening post the
range may be much reduced.
*1 When the measured frequencies lie within the range 180-450Hz

154
—INLAND—
§ 86.05 Sound signal intensity and range of audibility

A whistle on a vessel shall provide, in the direction of the forward axis of the
whistle and at a distance of 1 meter from it, a sound pressure level in at
least one 1/3-octave band of not less than the appropriate figure given in
Table 86.05 within the following frequency ranges ( ± 1 percent):
(a) 130-1200 Hz, for a vessel 75 meters or more in length;
(b) 250-1600 Hz, for a vessel 20 meters but less than 75 meters in length;
(c) 250-2100 Hz, for a vessel 12 meters but less than 20 meters in length.
Table 86.05
For 1/3 octave band Audibility

Fundamental
Length of vessel in measured level at 1 meter in range in
frequency
meters frequencies dB referred to 2x10- nautical
range (Hz) 5
(Hz) N/m2 miles
130-180 145
200 or more 70-200 180-250 143 2
250-1200 140
130-180 140
75 but less than 200 130-350 180-250 138 1.5
250-1200 134
250-450 130
20 but less than 75 250-525 450-800 125 1.0
800-1600 121
250-450 120
12 but less than 20 250-525 450-800 115 0.5
800-2100 111
NOTE: The range of audibility in the table above is for information and is
approximately the range at which a whistle may usually be heard on its forward axis
in conditions of still air on board a vessel having average background noise level at
the listening posts (taken to be 68 dB in the octave band centered on 250 Hz and 63
dB in the octave band centered on 500 Hz). In practice the range at which a whistle
may be heard is extremely variable and depends critically on weather conditions; the
values given can be regarded as typical but under conditions of strong wind or high
ambient noise level at the listening post the range may be much reduced.
155
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(d) Directional properties

The sound pressure level of a directional whistle shall be not more than 4
dB below the prescribed sound pressure level on the axis at any direction in
the horizontal plane within ± 45 degrees of the axis. The sound pressure
level at any other direction in the horizontal plane shall be not more than 10
dB below the prescribed sound pressure level on the axis, so that the range
in any direction will be at least half the range on the forward axis. The sound
pressure level shall be measured in that one-third octave band which
determines the audibility range.
(e) Positioning of whistles

When a directional whistle is to be used as the only whistle on a vessel,
it shall be installed with its maximum intensity directed straight ahead.
A whistle shall be placed as high as practicable on a vessel, in order to
reduce interception of the emitted sound by obstructions and also to
minimize hearing damage risk to personnel. The sound pressure level of the
vessel’s own signal at listening posts shall not exceed 110 dB(A) and so far
as practicable should not exceed 100 dB(A).
156
—INLAND—
§ 86.07 Directional properties

The sound pressure level of a directional whistle shall be not more than 4
dB below the sound pressure level specified in § 86.05 in any direction in
the horizontal plane within + 45 degrees of the forward axis. The sound
pressure level of the whistle in any other direction in the horizontal plane
shall not be more than 10 dB less than the sound pressure level specified
for the forward axis, so that the range of audibility in any direction will be at
least half the range required on the forward axis. The sound pressure level
shall be measured in that one-third octave band which determines the
audibility range.
§ 86.09 Positioning of whistles

(a) When a directional whistle is to be used as the only whistle on the
vessel and is permanently installed, it shall be installed with its forward
axis directed forward.
(b) A whistle shall be placed as high as practicable on a vessel, in order to
reduce interception of the emitted sound by obstructions and also to
minimize hearing damage risk to personnel. The sound pressure level of
the vessel’s own signal at listening posts shall not exceed 110 dB(A)
and so far as practicable should not exceed 100 dB(A).
157
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(f) Fitting of more than one whistle

If whistles are fitted at a distance apart of more than 100 meters, it shall
be so arranged that they are not sounded simultaneously.
(g) Combined whistle systems

If due to the presence of obstructions the sound field of a single whistle
or of one of the whistles referred to in paragraph 1(f) above is likely to have
a zone of greatly reduced signal level, it is recommended that a combined
whistle system be fitted so as to overcome this reduction. For the purposes
of the Rules a combined whistle system is to be regarded as a single
whistle. The whistles of a combined system shall be located at a distance
apart of not more than 100 meters and arranged to be sounded
simultaneously. The frequency of any one whistle shall differ from those of
the others by at least 10 Hz.
158
—INLAND—
§ 86.11 Fitting of more than one whistle

If whistles are fitted at a distance apart of more than 100 meters, they shall
not be sounded simultaneously.
§ 86.13 Combined whistle systems

(a) A combined whistle system is a number of whistles (sound emitting
sources) operated together. For the purposes of the Rules a combined
whistle system is to be regarded as a single whistle. (b) The whistles of
a combined system shall:
(1) Be located at a distance apart of not more than 100 meters,
(2) Be sounded simultaneously,
(3) Each have a fundamental frequency different from those of the
others by at least 10 Hz, and
(4) Have a tonal characteristic appropriate for the length of vessel
which shall be evidenced by at least two-thirds of the whistles in the
combined system having fundamental frequencies falling within the
limits prescribed in § 86.03, or if there are only two whistles in the
combined system, by the higher fundamental frequency falling
within the limits prescribed § 86.03.
NOTE: If due to the presence of obstructions the sound field of a single whistle or of
one of the whistles referred to in §86.11 is likely to have a zone of greatly reduced
signal level a combined whistle system should be fitted so as to overcome this
reduction.
159
—INTERNATIONAL—
2. Bell or gong
(a) Intensity of signal
A bell or gong, or other device having similar sound characteristics shall
produce a sound pressure level of not less than 110 dB at a distance of 1
meter from it.
(b) Construction
Bells and gongs shall be made of corrosion-resistant material and
designed to give a clear tone. The diameter of the mouth of the bell shall be
not less than 300 mm for vessels of 20 meters or more in length. Where
practicable, a power-driven bell striker is recommended to ensure constant
force but manual operation shall be possible. The mass of the striker shall
be not less than 3 percent of the mass of the bell.
3. Approval
The construction of sound signal appliances, their performance and their
installation on board the vessel shall be to the satisfaction of the appropriate
authority of the State whose flag the vessel is entitled to fly.
160
—INLAND—
§ 86.15 Towing vessel whistles

A power-driven vessel normally engaged in pushing ahead or towing
alongside may, at all times, use a whistle whose characteristic falls within
the limits prescribed by § 86.03 for the longest customary composite length
of the vessel and its tow.
Subpart B—Bell or gong

§ 86.21 Intensity of signal
A bell or gong, or other device having similar sound characteristics shall
produce a sound pressure level of not less than 110 dB at 1 meter.
§ 86.23 Construction
Bells and gongs shall be made of corrosion-resistant material and designed
to give a clear tone. The diameter of the mouth of the bell shall be not less
than 300 mm for vessels of more than 20 meters in length, and shall be not
less than 200 mm for vessels of 12 to 20 meters in length. The mass of the
striker shall be not less than 3 percent of the mass of the bell. The striker
shall be capable of manual operation.
NOTE: When practicable, a power-driven bell striker is recommended to ensure

constant force.
Subpart C—Approval
§ 86.31 Approval [Reserved]
161
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ANNEX IV -
Distress Signals
1. The following signals, used or exhibited either together or separately,

indicate distress and need of assistance:
(a) a gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about a minute;
(b) a continuous sounding with any fog-signaling apparatus;
(c) rockets or shells, throwing red stars fired one at a time at short
intervals;
(d) a signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other signaling method
consisting of the group . . .– – –. . . (SOS) in the Morse Code;
(e) a signal sent by radiotelephony consisting of the spoken word
“Mayday”;
(f) the International Code Signal of distress indicated by N.C.;
(g) a signal consisting of a square flag having above or below it a ball
or anything resembling a ball;
(h) flames on the vessel (as from a burning tar barrel, oil barrel, etc.);
(i) a rocket parachute flare or a hand flare showing a red light;
(j) a smoke signal giving off orange-colored smoke;
(k) slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms outstretched to
each side;
(l) the radiotelegraph alarm signal;
(m) the radiotelephone alarm signal;
(n) signals transmitted by emergency position-indicating radio beacons;
(o) approved signals transmitted by radiocommunication systems,
including survival craft radar transponders.
162
—INLAND—
ANNEX IV
33 CFR 87
Distress Signals
§ 87.1 Need of assistance

The following signals, used or exhibited either together or separately,
indicate distress and need of assistance:
(a) A gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about a minute;
(b) A continuous sounding with any fog-signaling apparatus;
(c) Rockets or shells, throwing red stars fired one at a time at short
intervals;
(d) A signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other signaling method
consisting of the group . . .– – –. . . (SOS) in the Morse Code;
(e) A signal sent by radiotelephony consisting of the spoken word
“Mayday”;
(f) The International Code Signal of distress indicated by N.C.;
(g) A signal consisting of a square flag having above or below it a ball or
anything resembling a ball;
(h) Flames on the vessel (as from a burning tar barrel, oil barrel, etc.);
(i) A rocket parachute flare or a hand flare showing a red light;
(j) A smoke signal giving off orange-colored smoke;
(k) Slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms outstretched to each
side;
(l) The radiotelegraph alarm signal;
(m) The radiotelephone alarm signal;
(n) Signals transmitted by emergency position-indicating radio beacons;
(o) Signals transmitted by radiocommunication systems, including survival
craft radar transponders meeting the requirements of 47 CFR 80.1095.
(p) A high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals from 50 to 70
times per minute.
163
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ANNEX IV—Continued
2. The use or exhibition of any of the foregoing signals except for the
purpose of indicating distress and need of assistance and the use of
other signals which may be confused with any of the above signals is
prohibited.
3. Attention is drawn to the relevant sections of the International Code of
Signals, the Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual and the
following signals:
(a) a piece of orange-colored canvas with either a black square and
circle or other appropriate symbol (for identification from the air);
(b) a dye marker.
164
—INLAND—
ANNEX IV—Continued
§ 87.3 Exclusive use

The use or exhibition of any of the foregoing signals except for the purpose
of indicating distress and need of assistance and the use of other signals
which may be confused with any of the above signals is prohibited.
§ 87.5 Supplemental signals

Attention is drawn to the relevant sections of the International Code of
Signals, the Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual, the International
Telecommunication Union Radio Regulations, and the following signals:
(a) A piece of orange-colored canvas with either a black square and circle
or other appropriate symbol (for identification from the air);
(b) A dye marker.
165
—INTERNATIONAL—
[BLANK]
166
—INLAND—
ANNEX V
(33 CFR 88) - Pilot Rules
§ 88.01 Purpose and applicability

This Part applies to all vessels operating on United States inland waters and
to United States vessels operating on the Canadian waters of the Great
Lakes to the extent there is no conflict with Canadian law.
§ 88.03 Definitions
The terms used in this part have the same meaning as defined in the Inland
Navigational Rules Act of 1980.
§ 88.05 Copy of Rules

After January 1, 1983, the operator of each self-propelled vessel 12
meters or more in length shall carry on board and maintain for ready
reference a copy of the Inland Navigation Rules.
§ 88.09 Temporary exemption from light and shape requirements

when operating under bridges
A vessel’s navigation lights and shapes may be lowered if necessary to
pass under a bridge.
§ 88.11 Law enforcement vessels

(a) Law enforcement vessels may display a flashing blue light when
engaged in direct law enforcement or public safety activities. This light must
be located so that it does not interfere with the visibility of the vessel’s
navigation lights.
(b) The blue light described in this section may be displayed by law
enforcement vessels of the United States and the States and their political
subdivisions.
§ 88.12 Public Safety Activities

(a) Vessels engaged in government sanctioned public safety activities, and
commercial vessels performing similar functions, may display an alternately
flashing red and yellow light signal. This identification light signal must be
located so that it does not interfere with the visibility of the vessel’s
navigation lights. The identification light signal may be used only as an
identification signal and conveys no special privilege. Vessels using the
identification light signal during public safety activities must abide by the
Inland Navigation Rules, and must not presume that the light or the
exigency gives them precedence or right of way.
167
—INTERNATIONAL—
[BLANK]
168
—INLAND—
ANNEX V—Continued
(b) Public safety activities include but are not limited to patrolling marine
parades, regattas, or special water celebrations; traffic control; salvage;
firefighting; medical assistance; assisting disabled vessels; and search and
rescue.
§ 88.13 Lights on moored barges

(a) The following barges shall display at night and if practicable in periods
of restricted visibility the lights described in paragraph (b) of this section:
(1) Every barge projecting into a buoyed or restricted channel. (2)
Every barge so moored that it reduces the available navigable width of
any channel to less than 80 meters.
(2) Barges moored in groups more than two barges wide or to a
maximum width of over 25 meters.
(3) Every barge not moored parallel to the bank or dock.
(b) Barges described in paragraph (a) of this section shall carry two
unobstructed all-round white lights of an intensity to be visible for at least
one nautical mile and meeting the technical requirements as prescribed in §
84.15 of this chapter.
(c) A barge or a group of barges at anchor or made fast to one or more
mooring bouys or other similar device, in lieu of the provisions of Inland
Navigation Rule 30, may carry unobstructed all-round white lights of an
intensity to be visible for at least one nautical mile that meet the
requirements of § 84.15 of this chapter and shall be arranged as follows:
(1) Any barge that projects from a group formation, shall be lighted on
its outboard corners.
(2) On a single barge moored in water where other vessels normally
navigate on both sides of the barge, lights shall be placed to mark the
corner extremities of the barge.
(3) On barges moored in group formation, moored in water where other
vessels normally navigate on both sides of the group, lights shall be
placed to mark the corner extremities of the group.
(d) The following are exempt from the requirements of this section:
(1) A barge or group of barges moored in a slip or slough used
primarily for mooring purposes.
(2) A barge or group of barges moored behind a pierhead.
(3) A barge less than 20 meters in length when moored in a special
anchorage area designated in accordance with § 109.10 of this
chapter.
169
—INTERNATIONAL—
[BLANK]
170
—INLAND—
ANNEX V—Continued
(e) Barges moored in well-illuminated areas are exempt from the lighting
requirements of this section. These areas are as follows:
CHICAGO SANITARY SHIP CANAL

(1) Mile 293.2 to 293.9 (47) Mile 320.6
(3) Mile 295.2 to 296.1 (49) Mile 322.3 to 322.4
(5) Mile 297.5 to 297.8 (51) Mile 322.8
(7) Mile 298 to 298.2 (53) Mile 322.9 to 327.2
(9) Mile 298.6 to 298.8
(11) Mile 299.3 to 299.4 CALUMET SAG CHANNEL
(13) Mile 299.8 to 300.5 (61) Mile 316.5
(15) Mile 303 to 303.2
(17) Mile 303.7 to 303.9 LITTLE CALUMET RIVER
(19) Mile 305.7 to 305.8 (71) Mile 321.2
(21) Mile 310.7 to 310.9 (73) Mile 322.3
(23) Mile 311 to 311.2
(25) Mile 312.5 to 312.6 CALUMET RIVER
(27) Mile 313.8 to 314.2 (81) Mile 328.5 to 328.7
(29) Mile 314.6 (83) Mile 329.2 to 329.4
(31) Mile 314.8 to 315.3 (85) Mile 330 west bank to 330.2
(33) Mile 315.7 to 316 (87) Mile 331.4 to 331.6
(35) Mile 316.8 (89) Mile 332.2 to 332.4
(37) Mile 316.85 to 317.05 (91) Mile 332.6 to 332.8
(39) Mile 317.5
(41) Mile 318.4 to 318.9 CUMBERLAND RIVER
(43) Mile 318.7 to 318.8 (101) Mile 126.8
(45) Mile 320 to 320.3 (103) Mile 191
171
—INTERNATIONAL—
[BLANK]
172
—INLAND—
ANNEX V—Continued
§ 88.15 Lights on dredge pipelines

Dredge pipelines that are floating or supported on trestles shall display the
following lights at night and in periods of restricted visibility.
(a) One row of yellow lights. The lights must be:
(1) Flashing 50 to 70 times per minute,
(2) Visible all around the horizon,
(3) Visible for at least 2 miles on a clear dark night,
(4) Not less than 1 and not more than 3.5 meters above the water,
(5) Approximately equally spaced, and
(6) Not more than 10 meters apart where the pipeline crosses a
navigable channel. Where the pipeline does not cross a navigable
channel the lights must be sufficient in number to clearly show the
pipeline’s length and course.
(b) Two red lights at each end of the pipeline, including the ends in a
channel where the pipeline is separated to allow vessels to pass (whether
open or closed). The lights must be:
(1) Visible all around the horizon, and
(2) Visible for at least 2 miles on a clear dark night, and
(3) One meter apart in a vertical line with the lower light at the same
height above the water as the flashing yellow light.
173
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INTERPRETATIVE RULES
33 CFR 82
§ 82.1 Purpose
This part contains the interpretative rules concerning the 72 COLREGS that
are adopted by the Coast Guard for the guidance of the public.
§ 82.3 Pushing vessel and vessel being pushed: Composite unit

Rule 24(b) of the 72 COLREGS states that when a pushing vessel and a
vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit, they
are regarded as a power-driven vessel and must exhibit the lights under
Rule 23. A “composite unit” is interpreted to be a pushing vessel that is
rigidly connected by mechanical means to a vessel being pushed so they
react to sea and swell as one vessel.
“Mechanical means” does not include the following:
(a) Lines.
(b) Hawsers.
(c) Wires.
(d) Chains.
§ 82.5 Lights for moored vessels

For the purposes of Rule 30 of the 72 COLREGS, a vessel at anchor
includes a barge made fast to one or more mooring buoys or other similar
device attached to the sea or river floor. Such a barge may be lighted as a
vessel at anchor in accordance with Rule 30, or may be lighted on the
corners in accordance with 33 CFR 88.13.
§ 82.7 Sidelights for unmanned barges

An unmanned barge being towed may use the exception of COLREG Rule
24(h). However, this exception only applies to the vertical sector
requirements.
174
—INLAND—
INTERPRETATIVE RULES
33 CFR 90
§ 90.1 Purpose
This part contains the interpretative rules for the Inland Rules. These
interpretative rules are intended as a guide to assist the public and promote
compliance with the Inland Rules.
§ 90.3 Pushing vessel and vessel being pushed: Composite unit

Rule 24(b) of the Inland Rules states that when a pushing vessel and a
vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit, they
are regarded as a power-driven vessel and must exhibit the lights
prescribed in Rule 23. A “composite unit” is interpreted to be the
combination of a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead that are
rigidly connected by mechanical means so they react to sea and swell as
one vessel. Mechanical means does not include lines, wires, hawsers, or
chains.
§ 90.5 Lights for moored vessels

A vessel at anchor includes a vessel made fast to one or more mooring
buoys or other similar device attached to the ocean floor. Such vessels may
be lighted as a vessel at anchor in accordance with Rule 30, or may be
lighted on the corners in accordance with 33 CFR 88.13.
§ 90.7 Sidelights for unmanned barges

An unmanned barge being towed may use the exception of COLREG Rule
24(h). However, this exception only applies to the vertical sector
requirements.
175
COLREGS DEMARCATION LINES
33 CFR 80
General
Sec.
80.01 General basis and purpose of 80.525 Cape Lookout, NC to Cape
demarcation lines. Fear, NC.
80.530 Cape Fear, NC to New River
ATLANTIC COAST Inlet, NC.
FIRST DISTRICT
SEVENTH DISTRICT
80.105 Calais, ME to Cape Small,
ME. 80.703 Little River Inlet, SC to Cape
80.110 Casco Bay, ME. Romain, SC.
80.115 Portland Head, ME to Cape 80.707 Cape Romain, SC to Sullivans
Ann, MA. Island, SC.
80.120 Cape Ann, MA to Marblehead 80.710 Charleston Harbor, SC.
Neck, MA. 80.712 Morris Island, SC to Hilton
80.125 Marblehead Neck, MA to Head Island, SC.
Nahant, MA. 80.715 Savannah River.
80.130 Boston Harbor entrance. 80.717 Tybee Island, GA to St.
80.135 Hull, MA to Race Point, MA. Simons Island, GA.
80.145 Race Point, MA to Watch Hill, 80.720 St. Simons Island, GA to
Rl. Amelia Island, FL.
80.150 Block Island, Rl. 80.723 Amelia Island, FL to Cape
80.155 Watch Hill, Rl to Montauk Canaveral, FL.
Point, NY. 80.727 Cape Canaveral, FL to Miami
80.160 Montauk Point, NY to Atlantic Beach, FL.
Beach, NY. 80.730 Miami Harbor, FL.
80.165 New York Harbor. 80.735 Miami, FL to Long Key, FL.
80.170 Sandy Hook, NJ to Tom’s
River, NJ. PUERTO RICO AND VIRGIN
ISLANDS
FIFTH DISTRICT SEVENTH DISTRICT
80.501 Tom’s River N.J. to Cape 80.738 Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands
May, NJ.
80.503 Delaware Bay.
80.505 Cape Henlopen, DE to Cape
Charles, VA.
80.510 Chesapeake Bay Entrance,
VA.
80.515 Cape Henry, VA to Cape
Hatteras, NC
80,520 Cape Hatteras, NC to Cape
Lookout, NC.
176
GULF COAST PACIFIC COAST
SEVENTH DISTRICT ELEVENTH DISTRICT
Sec. Sec.
80.740 Long Key, FL to Cape Sable, 80.1102 Santa Catalina Island, CA.
FL. 80.1104 San Diego Harbor, CA.
80.745 Cape Sable, FL to Cape 80.1106 Mission Bay, CA.
Romano, FL. 80.1108 Oceanside Harbor, CA.
80.748 Cape Romano, FL to Sanibel 80.1110 Dana Point Harbor, CA.
Island, FL. 80.1112 Newport Bay, CA.
80.750 Sanibel Island, FL to St. 80.1114 San Pedro Bay-Anaheim
Petersburg, FL. Bay, CA.
80.753 St. Petersburg, FL to Anclote, 80.1116 Redondo Harbor, CA.
FL. 80.1118 Marina Del Rey, CA.
80.755 Anclote, FL to the Suncoast 80.1120 Port Hueneme, CA.
Keys, FL. 80.1122 Channel Islands Harbor, CA.
80.757 Suncoast Keys, FL to 80.1124 Ventura Marina, CA.
Horseshoe Point, FL. 80.1126 Santa Barbara Harbor, CA.
80.760 Horseshoe Point, FL to Rock 80.1130 San Luis Obispo Bay, CA.
Island, FL. 80.1132 Estero-Morro Bay, CA.
80.1134 Monterey Harbor, CA.
EIGHTH DISTRICT 80.1136 Moss Landing Harbor, CA.
80.1138 Santa Cruz Harbor, CA.
80.805 Rock Island,FL to Cape San 80.1140 Pillar Point Harbor, CA.
Blas, FL. 80.1142 San Francisco Harbor, CA.
80.810 Cape San Blas, FL to Perdido 80.1144 Bodega and Tomales Bay,
Bay, FL. CA.
80.815 Mobile Bay, AL to the 80.1146 Albion River, CA.
Chandeleur Island, LA. 80.1148 Noyo River, CA.
80.825 Mississippi Passes, LA. 80.1150 Arcato-Humboldt Bay, CA.
80.830 Mississippi Passes, LA to 80.1152 Crescent City Harbor, CA.
Point Au Fer, LA.
80.835 Point Au Fer, LA to Calcasieu
Pass, LA.
80.840 Sabine Pass, TX to
Galveston, TX.
80.845 Galveston, TX to Freeport,
TX.
80.850 Brazos River, TX to the Rio
Grande, TX.
177
THIRTEENTH DISTRICT GENERAL
Sec. § 80.01 General basis and
80.1305 Chetco River, OR. purpose of demarcation
80.1310 Rogue River, OR.
80.1315 Coquille River, OR.
lines.
80.1320 Coos Bay, OR. (a) The regulations in this part
80.1325 Umpqua River, OR. establish the lines of demarcation
80.1330 Siuslaw River, OR. delineating those waters upon
80.1335 Alsea Bay, OR. which mariners shall comply with
80.1340 Yaquina Bay, OR. the International Regulations for
80.1345 Depoe Bay, OR. Preventing Collisions at Sea,
80.1350 Netarts Bay, OR. 1972 (72 COLREGS) and those
80.1355 Tillamook Bay, OR. waters upon which mariners shall
80.1360 Nehalem River, OR.
80.1365 Columbia River Entrance,
comply with the Inland Navigation
OR/WA. Rules.
80.1370 Willapa Bay, WA. (b) The waters inside of the
80.1375 Grays Harbor, WA. lines are Inland Rules Waters.
80.1380 Quillayute River, WA. The waters outside the lines are
80.1385 Strait of Juan de Fuca. COLREGS Waters.
80.1390 Haro Strait and Strait of
Georgia. ATLANTIC COAST
80.1395 Puget Sound and adjacent FIRST DISTRICT
waters.
PACIFIC ISLANDS § 80.105 Calais, ME to Cape

FOURTEENTH DISTRICT Small, ME.
The 72 COLREGS shall apply on
80.1410 Hawaiian Island Exemption the harbors, bays, and inlets on
from General Rule. the east coast of Maine from
80.1420 Mamala Bay, Oahu, Hl. International Bridge at Calais,
80.1430 Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hl. ME to the southwesternmost
80.1440 Port Allen, Kauai, HI. extremity of Bald Head at Cape
80.1450 Nawiliwili Harbor, Kauai, Hl. Small.
80.1460 Kahului Harbor, Maui, Hl.
80.1470 Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaii,
Hl. § 80.110 Casco Bay, ME.
80.1480 Hilo Harbor, Hawaii, Hl. (a) A line drawn from the
80.1490 Apra Harbor, U.S. Territory southwesternmost extremity of
of Guam. Bald Head at Cape Small to the
80.1495 U.S. Pacific Island southeasternmost extremity of
Possessions. Ragged Island; thence to the
southern tangent of Jaquish
ALASKA Island thence to Little Mark Island
SEVENTEENTH DISTRICT Monument Light; thence to the
80.1705 Alaska.
northernmost extremity of Jewell
Island.
178
(b) A line drawn from the tower on Harbor Breakwater Light to the
Jewell Island charted in twin towers charted in approximate
approximate position latitude 43° position latitude 42°35.1’ N.
40.6’ N. longitude 70° 05.9’W. to longitude 70°41.6’W.
the northeasternmost extremity of (c) A line drawn from the
Outer Green Island. westernmost extremity of Gales
(c) A line drawn from the Point to the easternmost extremity
southwesternmost extremity of of House Island; thence to Bakers
Outer Green Island to Ram Island Island Light; thence to Marblehead
Ledge Light; thence to Portland Light.
Head Light.
§ 80.125 Marblehead Neck, MA
§ 80.115 Portland Head, ME to to Nahant, MA.
Cape Ann, MA. The 72 COLREGS apply on the
(a) Except inside lines specifically harbors, bays, and inlets on the
described in this section, the 72 east coast of Massachusetts
COLREGS shall apply on the from Marblehead Neck to the
harbors, bays, and inlets on the easternmost tower at Nahant,
east coast of Maine, New charted in approximate position
Hampshire, and Massachusetts latitude 42°25.4’ N., longitude
from Portland Head to Halibut Point 70°54.6’ W.
at Cape Ann.
(b) A line drawn from the § 80.130 Boston Harbor
southernmost tower on Gerrish entrance.
Island charted in approximate A line drawn from the easternmost
position latitude 43°04.0’ N. tower at Nahant, charted in
longitude 70°41.2’ W. to Whaleback approximate position latitude 42°
Light; thence to Jeffrey Point Light 25.4’ N., longitude 70°54.6’ W.,
2A; thence to the northeasternmost to Boston Lighted Horn Buoy
extremity of Frost Point. “B”; thence to the easternmost
(c) A line drawn from the radio tower at Hull, charted in
northernmost extremity of Farm approximate position latitude
Point to Annisquam Harbor Light. 42°16.7’ N., longitude 70°52.6’
W.
§ 80.120 Cape Ann, MA to
Marblehead Neck, MA. § 80.135 Hull, MA to Race Point,
(a) Except inside lines specifically MA.
described in this section, the 72 (a) Except inside lines described
COLREGS shall apply on the in this section, the 72 COLREGS
harbors, bays and inlets on the east apply on the harbors, bays, and
coast of Massachusetts from inlets on the east coast of
Halibut Point at Cape Ann to Massachusetts from the
Marblehead Neck. easternmost radio tower at Hull,
(b) A line drawn from Gloucester charted in approximate position
179
latitude 42°16.7’ N., longitude
70°52.6’ W., to Race Point on Cape
Cod. § 80.150 Block Island, Rl.
(b) A line drawn from Canal The 72 COLREGS shall apply
Breakwater Light 4 south to the on the harbors of Block Island.
shoreline.
§ 80.155 Watch Hill, Rl to
§ 80.145 Race Point, MA to Montauk Point, NY.
Watch Hill, Rl. (a) A line drawn from Watch Hill
(a) Except inside lines specifically Light to East Point on Fishers
described in this section, the 72 Island.
COLREGS shall apply on the (b) A line drawn from Race Point
sounds, bays, harbors and inlets to Race Rock Light; thence to Little
along the coast of Cape Cod and Gull Island Light thence to East
the southern coasts of Point on Plum Island.
Massachusetts and Rhode Island (c) A line drawn from Plum Island
from Race Point to Watch Hill. Harbor East Dolphin Light to Plum
(b) A line drawn from Nobska Island Harbor West Dolphin Light.
Point Light to Tarpaulin Cove Light (d) A line drawn from Plum Island
on the southeastern side of Light to Orient Point Light; thence
Naushon Island; thence from the to Orient Point.
southernmost tangent of Naushon (e) A line drawn from the
Island to the easternmost extremity lighthouse ruins at the
of Nashawena Island; thence from southwestern end of Long Beach
the southwestern most extremity of Point to Cornelius Point.
Nashawena Island to the (f) A line drawn from Coec!es
easternmost extremity of Cuttyhunk Harbor Entrance Light to Sungic
Island; thence from the Point.
southwestern tangent of Cuttyhunk (g) A line drawn from Nicoll Point
Island to the tower on Gooseberry to Cedar Island Light.
Neck charted in approximate (h) A line drawn from Threemile
position latitude 41°29.1’ N. Harbor West Breakwater Light to
longitude 71°02.3’W. Three Mile Harbor East
(c) A line drawn from Sakonnet Breakwater Light.
Breakwater Light 2 tangent to the (i) A line drawn from Montauk
southernmost part of Sachuest West Jetty Light 1 to Montauk East
Point charted in approximate Jetty Light 2.
position latitude 41° 28.5’ N.
longitude 71°14.8’ W. § 80.160 Montauk Point, NY to
(d) An east-west line drawn Atlantic Beach, NY.
through Beavertail Light between (a) A line drawn from Shinnecock
Brenton Point and the Boston Neck Inlet East Breakwater Light to
shoreline. Shinnecock Inlet West Breakwater
Light 1.
180
(b) A line drawn from Moriches Inlet seaward tangent of Brigantine Island
East Breakwater Light to Moriches across Brigantine Inlet.
Inlet West Breakwater Light. (c) A line drawn from the seaward
(c) A line drawn from Fire Island extremity of Absecon Inlet North
Inlet Breakwater Light 348° true to Jetty to Atlantic City Light.
the southernmost extremity of the spit (d) A line drawn from the
of land at the western end of Oak southernmost point of Longport at
Beach. latitude 39°18.2’ N. Iongitude
(d) A line drawn from Jones Inlet 74°33.1’W. to the northeasternmost
Light 322° true across the southwest point of Ocean City at latitude
tangent of the island on the north side 39°17.6’ N. longitude 74° 33.1’ W.
of Jones Inlet to the shoreline. across Great Egg Harbor Inlet.
(e) A line drawn parallel with the
§ 80.165 New York Harbor. general trend of highwater shoreline
A line drawn from East Rockaway across Corson Inlet.
Inlet Breakwater Light to Sandy (f) A line formed by the centerline
Hook Light. of the Townsend Inlet Highway
Bridge.
§ 80.170 Sandy Hook, NJ to Toms (g) A line formed by the shoreline
River, NJ. of Seven Mile Beach and Hereford
(a) A line drawn from Shark River Inlet Light.
Inlet North Breakwater Light 2 to (h) A line drawn from Cape May
Shark River Inlet South Breakwater Inlet East Jetty Light to Cape May
Light 1. Inlet West Jetty Light.
(b) A line drawn from Manasquan
Inlet North Breakwater Light 4 to § 80.503 Delaware Bay.
Manasquan Inlet South Breakwater A line drawn from Cape May Light to
Light 3. Harbor of Refuge Light; thence to
(c) A line drawn from Barnegat Inlet the northernmost extremity of
North Breakwater Light 4A to the Cape Henlopen.
seaward extremity of the submerged
Barnegat Inlet South Breakwater; § 80.505 Cape Henlopen, DE to
thence along the submerged Cape Charles, VA.
breakwater to the shoreline. (a) A line drawn from the seaward
extremity of Indian River Inlet North
FIFTH DISTRICT Jetty to Indian River Inlet South Jetty
Light.
§ 80.501 Toms River, NJ to Cape (b) A line drawn from Ocean City
May, NJ. Inlet Light 6 225° true across Ocean
(a) A line drawn from the seaward City Inlet to the submerged south
tangent of Long Beach Island to the breakwater.
seaward tangent to Pullen Island
across Beach Haven and Little Egg
Inlets.
(b) A line drawn from the seaward
tangent of Pullen Island to the
181
(c) A line drawn from Assateague (a) A line drawn from Hatteras
Beach Tower Light to the tower Inlet Lookout Tower at latitude
charted at latitude 37°52.6’ N. 35°11.8’ N 75°44.9’ W 255° true to
longitude 75°26.7’W. the eastern end of Ocracoke
(d) A line formed by the range of Island.
Wachapreague Inlet Light 3 and (b) A line drawn from the
Parramore Beach Lookout Tower westernmost extremity of
drawn across Wachapreague Inlet. Ocracoke Island at latitude 35
(e) A line drawn from the lookout °04.0’ N. longitude 76°00.8’ W. to
tower charted on the northern end the northeastern extremity of
of Hog Island to the seaward Portsmouth Island at latitude
tangent of Parramore Beach. 35°03.7’ N. longitude 76° 02.3’W.
(f) A Line drawn 207° true from (c) A line drawn across Drum
the lookout tower charted on the Inlet parallel with the general trend
southern end of Hog Island across of the highwater shoreline.
Great Machipongo Inlet.
(g) A line formed by the range of § 80.525 Cape Lookout, NC to
the two cupolas charted on the Cape Fear, NC.
southern end of Cobb Island drawn (a) A line drawn from Cape
across Sand Shoal Inlet. Lookout Light to the seaward
(h) Except as provided elsewhere tangent of the southeastern end of
in this section from Cape Henlopen Shackleford Banks.
to Cape Charles, lines drawn (b) A line drawn from Morehead
parallel with the general trend of the City Channel Range Front Light to
highwater shoreline across the the seaward extremity of the
entrances to small bays and inlets. Beaufort Inlet west jetty.
(c) A line drawn from the
§ 80.510 Chesapeake Bay southernmost extremity of Bogue
Entrance, VA. Banks at latitude 34°38.7’ N.
A line drawn from Cape Charles longitude 77°06.0’W. across
Light to Cape Henry Light. Bogue Inlet to the northernmost
extremity of Bear Beach at latitude
§ 80.515 Cape Henry, VA to Cape 34° 38.5’ N. longitude 77°07.1’ W.
Hatteras, NC. (d) A line drawn from the tower
(a) A line drawn from Rudee Inlet charted in approximate position
Jetty Light 2 to Rudee Inlet Jetty latitude 34°31.5’ N. longitude 77°
Light 1. 208’ W. to the seaward tangent of
(b) A line formed by the centerline the shoreline on the northeast side
of the highway bridge across of New River Inlet.
Oregon Inlet. (e) A line drawn across New
Topsail Inlet between the closest
§ 80.520 Cape Hatteras, NC to
Cape Lookout, NC.
182
extremities of the shore on either across Hog Inlet; thence a line
side of the inlet from latitude 34° drawn from Murrels Inlet Light 2 to
20.8’ N. longitude 77°39.2’ W. to Murrels Inlet Light 1; thence a line
latitude 34°20.6’ N. longitude 77° drawn parallel with the general
39.6’ W. trend of the highwater shoreline
(f) A line drawn from the seaward across Midway Inlet, Pawleys Inlet
extremity of the jetty on the and North Inlet.
northeast side of Masonboro Inlet (c) A line drawn from the charted
to the seaward extremity of the jetty position of Winyah Bay North Jetty
on the southeast side of the Inlet. End Buoy 2N south to the Winyah
(g) Except as provided elsewhere Bay South Jetty.
in this section from Cape Lookout (d) A line drawn from Santee
to Cape Fear, lines drawn parallel Point to the seaward tangent of
with the general trend of the Cedar Island.
highwater shoreline across the (e) A line drawn from Cedar
entrance of small bays and inlets. Island Point west to Murphy Island.
(f) A north-south line (longitude
§ 80.530 Cape Fear, NC to Little 79°20.3’ W.) drawn from Murphy
River Inlet, NC. Island to the northernmost
(a) A line drawn from the extremity of Cape Island Point.
abandoned lighthouse charted in
approximate position latitude 33° § 80.707 Cape Romain, SC to
52.4’N. longitude 78°00.1’W. across Sullivans Island, SC.
the Cape Fear River Entrance to (a) A line drawn from the western
Oak Island Light. extremity of Cape Romain 292°
(b) Except as provided elsewhere true to Racoon Key on the west
in this section from Cape Fear to side of Racoon Creek.
Little River Inlet, lines drawn (b) A line drawn from the
parallel with the general trend of the westernmost extremity of Sandy
highwater shoreline across the Point across Bull Bay to the
entrance to small inlets. northernmost extremity of
Northeast Point.
SEVENTH DISTRICT (c) A line drawn from the
southernmost extremity of Bull
§ 80.703 Little River Inlet, SC to Island to the easternmost
Cape Romain, SC. extremity of Capers Island.
(a) A line drawn from the (d) A line formed by the overhead
westernmost extremity of the sand power cable from Capers Island to
spit on Bird Island to the Dewees Island.
easternmost extremity of Waties
Island across Little River Inlet.
(b) From Little River Inlet, a line
drawn parallel with the general
trend of the highwater shoreline
183
(e) A line formed by the overhead longitude 80°19.2’ W. across St.
power cable from Dewees Island to Helena Sound to the abandoned
Isle of Palms. lighthouse tower on Hunting
(f) A line formed by the centerline Island.
of the highway bridge between Isle (e) A line formed by the
of Palms and Sullivans Island over centerline of the highway bridge
Breach Inlet. between Hunting Island and Fripp
Island.
§ 80.710 Charleston Harbor, SC. (f) A line drawn from the
(a) A line formed by the westernmost extremity of Bull
submerged north jetty from the Point on Capers Island to Port
shore to the west end of the north Royal Sound Channel Range Rear
jetty. Light, latitude 32°13.7’ N.
(b) A line drawn from across the longitude 80°36.0’ W.; thence 259°
seaward extremity of the true to the easternmost extremity
Charleston Harbor Jetties. of Hilton Head at latitude 32°13.7’
(c) A line drawn from the west end N. longitude 80°40.1’W.
of the South Jetty across the South
Entrance to Charleston Harbor to § 80.715 Savannah River.
shore on a line formed by the A line drawn from the
submerged south jetty. southernmost tank on Hilton
Head Island charted in
§ 80.712 Morris Island, SC to approximate position latitude
Hilton Head Island, SC. 32°06.7’ N . longitude 80°49.3’
(a) A line drawn from the W. to Bloody Point Range Rear
easternmost tip of Folly Island to Light; thence to Tybee (Range
the abandoned lighthouse tower on Rear) Light.
the northside of Lighthouse Inlet;
thence west to the shoreline of § 80.717 Tybee Island, GA to St.
Morris Island. Simons Island, GA.
(b) A straight line drawn from the (a) A line drawn from the
seaward tangent of Folly Island southernmost extremity of
through Folly River Daybeacon 10 Savannah Beach on Tybee Island
across Stono River to the shoreline 255° true across Tybee Inlet to the
of Sandy Point. shore of Little Tybee Island south
(c) A line drawn from the of the entrance to Buck Hammock
southernmost extremity of Creek.
Seabrook Island 257° true across (b) A straight line drawn from the
the North Edisto River Entrance to northeasternmost extremity of
the shore of Botany Bay Island. Wassaw Island 031° true through
(d) A line drawn from the Tybee River Daybeacon 1 to the
microwave antenna tower on Edisto shore of Little Tybee Island.
Beach charted in approximate
position latitude 32°29.3’ N.
184
(c) A line drawn approximately (b) A line drawn from the
parallel with the general trend of the southernmost tank on Jekyll Island
highwater shorelines from the charted in approximate position
seaward tangent of Wassau Island latitude 31°01.6’ N. Iongitude
to the seaward tangent of Bradley 81°25.2’ W. to coordinate latitude
Point on Ossabaw Island. 30°59.4’N. Iongitude 81°23.7’ W.
(d) A north-south line (longitude (0.5 nautical mile east of the
81°08.4’W.) drawn from the charted position of St. Andrew
southernmost extremity of Sound Lighted Buoy 32); thence to
Ossabaw Island to St. Catherines the abandoned lighthouse tower
Island. on the north end of Little
(e) A north-south line (longitude Cumberland Island charted in
81°10.6’W.) drawn from the approximate position latitude
southernmost extremity of St. 30°58.5’N. Iongitude 81°24.8’ W.
Catherines Island to North-east (c) A line drawn across the
Point on Blackbeard Island. seaward extremity of the St. Marys
(f) A line following the general Entrance Jetties.
trend of the seaward highwater
shoreline across Cabretta Inlet. §80.723 Amelia Island, FL to
(g) A north-south line (longitude Cape Canaveral, FL.
81°16.9’W.) drawn from the (a) A line drawn from the
southwesternmost point on Sapelo southernmost extremity of Amelia
Island to Wolf Island. Island to the northeasternmost
(h) A north-south line (longitude extremity of Little Talbot Island.
81°17.1’W.) drawn from the (b) A line formed by the
southeasternmost point of Wolf centerline of the highway bridge
Island to the northeasternmost from Little Talbot Island to Fort
point on Little St. Simons Island. George Island.
(i) A line drawn from the (c) A line drawn across the
northeasternmost extremity of Sea seaward extremity of the St. Johns
Island 045° true to Little St. Simons River Entrance Jetties.
Island. (d) A line drawn across the
(j) An east-west line from the seaward extremity of the St.
southernmost extremity of Sea Augustine Inlet Jetties.
Island across Goulds Inlet to St. (e) A line formed by the
Simons Island. centerline of the highway bridge
over Matanzas Inlet.
§ 80.720 St. Simons Island, GA to (f) A line drawn across the
Amelia Island, FL. seaward extremity of the Ponce de
(a) A line drawn from St. Simons Leon Inlet Jetties.
Light to the northernmost tank on
Jekyll Island charted in approximate
position latitude 31°05.9’ N.
Iongitude 81° 24.5’ W.
185
§ 80.727 Cape Canaveral, FL to Government Cut Jetties.
Miami Beach, FL.
(a) A line drawn across the § 80.735 Miami, FL to Long Key,
seaward extremity of the Port FL.
Canaveral Entrance Channel (a) A line drawn from the
Jetties. southernmost extremity of Fisher
(b) A line drawn across the Island 212° true to the point
seaward extremity of the Sebastian latitude 25°45.0’ N. longitude 80°
Inlet Jetties. 08.6’ W. on Virginia Key.
(c) A line drawn across the (b) A line formed by the
seaward extremity of the Fort centerline of the highway bridge
Pierce Inlet Jetties. between Virginia Key and Key
(d) A north-south line (longitude Biscayne.
80° 09.7’ W.) drawn across St. (c) A line drawn from Cape
Lucie Inlet. Florida Light to the northern most
(e) A line drawn from the seaward extremity on Soldier Key.
extremity of Jupiter Inlet North Jetty (d) A line drawn from the
to the northeast extremity of the southernmost extremity on Soldier
concrete apron on the south side of Key to the northernmost extremity
Jupiter inlet. of the Ragged Keys.
(f) A line drawn across the (e) A line drawn from the Ragged
seaward extremity of the Lake Keys to the southernmost
Worth Inlet Jetties. extremity of Angelfish Key
(g) A line drawn across the following the general trend of the
seaward extremity of the Boynton seaward shoreline.
Inlet Jetties. (f) A line drawn on the centerline
(h) A line drawn from Boca Raton of the Overseas Highway (U.S. 1)
Inlet North Jetty Light 2 to Boca and bridges from latitude 25°19.3’
Raton Inlet South Jetty Light 1. N. longitude 80° 16.0’ W. at Little
(i) A line drawn from Hillsboro Inlet Angelfish Creek to the radar dome
Light to Hillsboro Inlet Entrance charted on Long Key at
Light 2; thence to Hillsboro Inlet approximate position latitude
Entrance Light 1; thence west to 24°49.3’ N. longitude 80°49.2’ W.
the shoreline.
(j) A line drawn across the PUERTO RICO AND VIRGIN
seaward extremity of the Port ISLANDS
Everglades Entrance Jetties. SEVENTH DISTRICT
(k) A line formed by the centerline
of the highway bridge over Bakers § 80.738 Puerto Rico and
Haulover Inlet. Virgin Islands.
(a) Except inside lines specifically
§ 80.730 Miami Harbor, FL. described in this section, the 72
A line drawn across the seaward COLREGS shall apply on
extremity of the Miami Harbor
186
all other bays, harbors and lagoons creeks, inlets, and rivers between
of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Chatham Bend and Marco Island
Islands. except inside lines specifically
(b) A line drawn from Puerto San described in this part.
Juan Light to Cabras Light across (c) A north-south line drawn at
the entrance of San Juan Harbor. longitude 81°20.2’ W. across the
entrance to Lopez River.
GULF COAST (d) A line drawn across the
SEVENTH DISTRICT entrance to Turner River parallel to
the general trend of the shoreline.
§80.740 Long Key, FL to Cape (e) A line formed by the
Sable, FL. centerline of Highway 92 Bridge at
A line drawn from the microwave Goodland.
tower charted on Long Key at
approximate position latitude 24° § 80.748 Cape Romano, FL to
48.8’ N. longitude 80° 49.6’ W. to Sanibel Island, FL.
Long Key Light 1; thence to (a) A line drawn across Big
Arsenic Bank Light 2; thence to Marco Pass parallel to the general
Sprigger Bank Light 5; thence to trend of the seaward, highwater
Schooner Bank Light 6; thence to shoreline.
Oxfoot Bank Light 10; thence to (b) A line drawn from the
East Cape Light 2; thence northwesternmost extremity of
through East Cape Daybeacon Coconut Island 000°T across
1A to the shoreline at East Cape. Capri Pass.
(c) Lines drawn across Hurricane
§ 80.745 Cape Sable, FL to Cape and Little Marco Passes parallel to
Romano, FL. the general trend of the seaward,
(a) A line drawn following the highwater shoreline. (
general trend of the mainland, (d) A line from the seaward
highwater shoreline from Cape extremity of Gordon Pass South
Sable at East Cape to Little Shark Jetty 014° true to the shoreline at
River Light 1; thence to approximate coordinate latitude
westernmost extremity of Shark 26°05.7’ N. Iongitude 81°48.1’ W.
Point; thence following the general (e) A line drawn across the
trend of the mainland, highwater seaward extremity of Doctors Pass
shoreline crossing the entrances of Jetties.
Harney River, Broad Creek, Broad (f) Lines drawn across Wiggins,
River, Rodgers River First Bay, Big Hickory, New, and
Chatham River, Huston River, to
the shoreline at coordinate latitude
25°41.8’ N. longitude 81°17.9’W.
(b) The 72 COLREGS shall apply
to the waters surrounding the Ten
Thousand Islands and the bays,
187
Big Carlos Passes parallel to the Channel Range Rear Light to the
general trend of the seaward shoreline on Mullet Key.
highwater shoreland. (k) A line drawn from the
(g) A straight line drawn from northernmost extremity of Mullet
Sanibel Island Light through Key across Bunces Pass and
Matanzas Pass Channel Light 2 to South Channel to Pass-a-Grille
the shore of Estero Island. Channel Light 8; thence to Pass-a-
Grille Channel Daybeacon 9;
§ 80.750 Sanibel Island, FL to St. thence to the southwesternmost
Petersburg, FL. extremity of Long Key.
(a) A line formed by the centerline
of the highway bridge over Blind § 80.753 St. Petersburg, FL to
Pass, between Captiva Island and the Anclote, FL.
Sanibel Island, and lines drawn (a) A line drawn across Blind
across Redfish and Captiva Passes Pass, between Treasure Island
parallel to the general trend of the and Long Key, parallel with the
seaward, highwater shorelines. general trend of the seaward,
(b) A line drawn from La Costa highwater shoreline.
Test Pile North Light to Port Boca (b) Lines formed by the centerline
Grande Light. of the highway bridges over Johns
(c) Lines drawn across Gasparilla and Clearwater Passes.
and Stump Passes parallel to the (c) A line drawn across Dunedin
general trend of the seaward, and Hurricane Passes parallel with
highwater shorelines. the general trend of the seaward,
(d) A line across the seaward highwater shoreline.
extremity of Venice Inlet Jetties. (d) A line drawn from the
(e) A line drawn across Midnight northernmost extremity of
Pass parallel to the general trend of Honeymoon Island to Anclote
the seaward, highwater shoreline. Anchorage South Entrance Light
(f) A line drawn from Big Sarasota 7; thence to Anclote Key 28° 10.0’
Pass Light 14 to the southernmost N 82°50.6’ W; thence a straight
extremity of Lido Key. line through Anclote River Cut B
(g) A line drawn across New Pass Range Rear Light to the shoreline.
tangent to the seaward, highwater
shoreline of Longboat Key. § 80.755 Anclote, FL to the
(h) A line drawn across Longboat Suncoast Keys, FL.
Pass parallel to the seaward, (a) Except inside lines specifically
highwater shoreline. described in this section,
(i) A line drawn from the
northwesternmost extremity of
Bean Point to the southeasternmost
extremity of Egmont Key.
(j) A straight line drawn from
Egmont Key Light through Egmont
188
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on Rock Islands, FL.
the bays, bayous, creeks, marinas, (a) Except inside lines specifically
and rivers from Anclote to the described provided in this section,
Suncoast Kevs. the 72 COLREGS shall apply on
(b) A north-south line drawn at the bays, bayous, creeks, marinas,
longitude 82°38.3’ W. across the and rivers from Horseshoe Point to
Chassahowitzka River Entrance. the Rock Islands.
(b) A north-south line drawn
§ 80.757 Suncoast Keys, FL to through Steinhatchee River Light
Horseshoe Point, FL. 21.
(a) Except inside lines specifically (c) A line drawn from
described in this section, the 72 Fenholloway River Approach Light
COLREGS shall apply on the bays, FR east across the entrance to
bayous, creeks, and marinas from Fenholloway River.
the Suncoast Keys to Horseshoe
Point. EIGHTH DISTRICT
(b) A line formed by the centerline
of Highway 44 Bridge over the Salt § 80.805 Rock Island, FL to Cape
River. San Blas, FL.
(c) A north-south line drawn (a) A north-south line drawn from
through Crystal River Entrance the Econfina River Light to the
Daybeacon 25 across the river opposite shore.
entrance. (b) A line drawn from Gamble
(d) A north-south line drawn Point Light to the southernmost
through the Cross Florida Barge extremity of Cabell Point.
Canal Daybeacon 48 across the (c) A line drawn from St. Marks
canal. (Range Rear) Light to St. Marks
(e) A north-south line drawn Channel Light 11; thence to the
through Withlacoochee River southernmost extremity of Live
Daybeacon 40 across the river. Oak Point; thence in a straight line
(f) A line drawn from the through Shell Point Light to the
westernmost extremity of South southernmost extremity of
Point north to the shoreline across Ochlockonee Point; thence to Bald
the Waccasassa River Entrance. Point along longitude 84° 20.5’ W.
(g) A line drawn from position (d) A line drawn from the south
latitude 29°16.6’ N. longitude shore of Southwest Cape at
83°06.7’ W. 300° true to the longitude 84°22.7’ W. to Dog
shoreline of Hog Island. Island Reef East Light 1; thence to
(h) A north-south line drawn Turkey Point Light 2; thence to the
through Suwannee River Wadley easternmost extremity of Dog
Pass Channel Daybeacons 30 and Island.
31 across the Suwannee River.
§ 80.760 Horseshoe Point, FL to
189
(e) A line drawn from the Fort McRee Leading Light across
westernmost extremity of Dog the Pensacola Bay Entrance along
Island to the easternmost extremity latitude 30°19.5’ N.
of St. George Island. (h) A line drawn between the
(f) A line drawn across the seaward end of the Perdido Pass
seaward extremity of the St. Jetties.
George Island Channel Jetties.
(g) A line drawn from the § 80.815 Mobile Bay, AL to the
northwesternmost extremity of Chandeleur Islands, LA.
Sand Island to West Pass Light 7. (a) A line drawn across the in lets
(h) A line drawn from the to Little Lagoon as an extension of
westernmost extremity of St. the general trend of the shoreline.
Vincent Island to the southeast, (b) A line drawn from Mobile
highwater shoreline of Indian Point Light to Dauphin Island
Peninsula at longitude 85°13.5’ W. Channel Light No. 1 to the eastern
corner of Fort Gaines at Pelican
§ 80.810 Cape San Blas, FL to Point.
Perdido Bay, FL. (c) A line drawn from the
(a) A line drawn from St. Joseph westernmost extremity of Dauphin
Bay Entrance Range A Rear Light Island to the easternmost
through St. Joseph Bay Entrance extremity of Petit Bois Island.
Range B Front Light to St. Joseph (d) A line drawn from Horn Island
Point. Pass Entrance Range Front Light
(b) A line drawn across the mouth on Petit Bois Island to the
of Salt Creek as an extension of the easternmost extremity of Horn
general trend of the shoreline to Island.
continue across the inlet to St. (e) A east-west line (latitude
Andrews Sound in the middle of 30°14.7’ N.) drawn between the
Crooked Island. westernmost extremity of Horn
(c) A line drawn from the Island to the easternmost
northernmost extremity of Crooked extremity of Ship Island.
Island 000°T. to the mainland. (f) A curved line drawn following
(d) A line drawn from the the general trend of the seaward,
easternmost extremity of Shell highwater shoreline of Ship Island.
Island 120° true to the shoreline (g) A line drawn from Ship Island
across the east entrance to St. Light to Chandeleur Light; thence
Andrews Bay. in a curved line following the
(e) A line drawn between the general trend of the seaward,
seaward end of the St. Andrews highwater shorelines of the
Bay Entrance Jetties. Chandeleur Islands to the island at
(f) A line drawn between the latitude 29°44.1’ N. longitude
seaward end of the Choctawatchee 88°53.0’ W.; thence to
Bay Entrance Jetties.
(g) A east-west line drawn from
190
latitude 29°26.5’N. longitude 88° coordinate latitude 29°03.4’N.
55.6’W. longitude 89°13.0’W.; thence west
to coordinate latitude 29°03.5’N.,
§ 80.825 Mississippi Passes, LA. longitude 89°15.5’W., thence
(a) A line drawn from latitude following the general trend of the
29°26.5’N., longitude 88°55.6’W. to seaward, highwater shoreline in a
latidude 29°10.6’N., longitude southwesterly direction to
88°59.8’W.; thence to latitude Mississippi River Southwest Pass
29°03.5’N., longitude 89°03.7’ W.; Entrance Light.
thence to latitude 28°58.8’N., (e) A line drawn from Mississippi
longitude 89°04.3’W. River Southwest Pass Entrance
(b) A line drawn from latitude Light; thence to the seaward
28°58.8’N., longitude 89°04.3’W.; to extremity of the Southwest Pass
latitude 28°57.3’N., longitude West Jetty located at coordinate
89°05.3’W.; thence to latitude latitude 28°54.5’N. Iongitude
28°56.95’N., longitude 89°05.6’W.; 89°26.1’W.
thence to latitude 29°00.4’N.,
longitude 89°09.8’W.; thence § 80.830 Mississippi Passes, LA
following the general trend of the to Point Au Fer, LA.
seaward highwater shoreline in a (a) A line drawn from the
northwesterly direction to latitude seaward extremity of the
29°03.4’N., longitude 89°13.0’W.; Southwest Pass West Jetty
thence west to latitude 29°03.5’N., located at coordinate latitude
longitude 89°15.5’W.; thence 28°54.5’N. longitude 89°26.1’W.;
following the general trend of the thence following the general trend
seaward high water shoreline in a of the seaward, highwater jetty and
southwesterly direction to latitude shoreline in a north, northeasterly
28°57.7’N., longitude 89° 22.3’W. direction to Old Tower latitude
(c) A line drawn from latitude 28°58.8’N. longitude 89°23.3’W.;
28°57.7’N., longitude 89°22.3’W.; to thence to West Bay Light; thence
latitude 28°51.4’N., longitude to coordinate latitude 29°05.2’N.
89°24.5’W.; thence to latitude longitude 89°24.3’W.; thence a
28°52.65’N., longitude 89°27.1’ W.; curved line following the general
thence to the seaward extremity of trend of the highwater shoreline to
the Southwest Pass West Jetty Point Au Fer Island except as
located at latitude 28°54.5’N., otherwise described in this section.
longitude 89°26.1’W. (b) A line drawn across the
(d) A line drawn from Mississippi seaward extremity of the Empire
River South Pass East Jetty Light 4 Waterway (Bayou Fontanelle)
to Mississippi River South Pass entrance jetties.
West Jetty Light; thence following (c) An east-west line drawn from
the general trend of the seaward the westernmost extremity
highwater shoreline in a
northwesterly direction to
191
(d) of Grand Terre Islands in the true through Southwest Pass
direction of 194° true to the Grand Vermillion Bay Light 4 across
Isle Fishing Jetty Light. Southwest Pass.
(e) A line drawn between the (d) A line drawn across the
seaward extremity of the Belle Pass seaward extremity of the
Jetties. Freshwater Bayou Canal Entrance
(f) A line drawn from the Jetties.
westernmost extremity of the (e) A line drawn from Mermentau
Timbalier Island to the easternmost Channel East Jetty Light 6 to
extremity of Isles Dernieres. Mermentau Channel West Jetty
(g) A north-south line drawn from Light 7.
Caillou Bay Light 13 across Caillou (f) A line drawn from the radio
Boca. tower charted in approximate
(h) A line drawn 107° true from position latitude 29°45.7’N.
Caillou Bay Boat Landing Light longitude 93°06.3’W. 115° true
across the entrances to Grand across Mermentau Pass.
Bayou du Large and Bayou Grand (g) A line drawn across the
Caillou. seaward extremity of the
(i) A line drawn on an axis of 103° Calcasieu Pass Jetties.
true through Taylors Bayou
Entrance Light 2 across the § 80.840 Sabine Pass, TX to
entrances to Jack Stout Bayou, Galveston, TX.
Taylors Bayou, Pelican Pass, and (a) A line drawn from the Sabine
Bayou de West. Pass East Jetty Light to the
seaward end of the Sabine Pass
§ 80.835 Point Au Fer, LA to West Jetty.
Calcasieu Pass, LA. (b) A line drawn across the small
(a) A line drawn from Point Au Fer boat passes through the Sabine
to Atchafalaya Channel Light 34; Pass East and West Jetties.
thence to Point Au Fer Reef Light (c) A line formed by the
33; thence to Atchafalaya Bay centerline of the highway bridge
Pipeline Light D latitude 29°25.0’N. over Rollover Pass at Gilchrist.
longitude 91°31.7’W.; thence to
Atchafalaya Bay Light 1 latitude § 80.845 Galveston, TX to
29°25.3’N. longitude 91°35.8’W.; Freeport, TX.
thence to South Point. (a) A line drawn from Galveston
(b) Lines following the general North Jetty Light 6A to Galveston
trend of the highwater shoreline South Jetty Light 5A.
drawn across the bayou and canal (b) A line formed by the
inlets from the Gulf of Mexico centerline of the highway bridge
between South Point and Calcasieu over San Luis Pass.
Pass except as otherwise
described in this section.
(c) A line drawn on an axis of 140°
192
(c) Lines formed by the PACIFIC COAST
centerlines of the highway bridges ELEVENTH DISTRICT
over the inlets to Christmas Bay
(Cedar Cut) and Drum Bay. § 80.1102 Santa Catalina Island,
(d) A line drawn from the seaward CA.
extremity of the Freeport North The 72 COLREGS shall apply to
Jetty to Freeport Entrance Light 6; the harbors on Santa Catalina
thence to Freeport Entrance Light Island.
7; thence to the seaward extremity
of Freeport South Jetty. § 80.1104 San Diego Harbor, CA.
A line drawn from Zuniga Jetty
§ 80.850 Brazos River, TX to the Light “V” to Zuniga Jetty Light
Rio Grande, TX. “Z”; thence to Point Loma Light.
(a) Except as otherwise described
in this section lines drawn § 80.1106 Mlssion Bay, CA.
continuing the general trend of the A line drawn from Mission Bay
seaward, highwater shorelines South Jetty Light 2 to Mission
across the inlets to Brazos River Bay North Jetty Light 1.
Diversion Channel, San Bernard
River, Cedar Lakes, Brown Cedar § 80.1108 Oceanside Harbor,
Cut, Colorado River, Matagorda CA.
Bay, Cedar Bayou, Corpus Christi A line drawn from Oceanside
Bay, and Laguna Madre. South Jetty Light 4 to Oceanside
(b) A line drawn across the Breakwater Light 3.
seaward extremity of Matagorda
Ship Channel North Jetties. § 80.1110 Dana Point Harbor,
(c) A line drawn from the seaward CA.
tangent of Matagorda Peninsula at A line drawn from Dana Point Jetty
Decros Point to Matagorda Light. Light 6 to Dana Point
(d) A line drawn across the Breakwater Light 5.
seaward extremity of the Aransas
Pass Jetties. § 80.1112 Newport Bay, CA.
(e) A line drawn across the A line drawn from Newport Bay
seaward extremity of the Port East Jetty Light 4 to Newport
Mansfield Entrance Jetties. Bay West Jetty Light 3.
(f) A line drawn across the
seaward extremity of the Brazos § 80.1114 San Pedro Bay-
Santiago Pass Jetties. Anaheim Bay, CA.
(a) A line drawn across the
seaward extremities of the
Anaheim Bay Entrance East
Jetties; thence to Long Beach
Breakwater East End Light 1.
193
(b) A line drawn from Long Beach thence to Ventura Marina North
Channel Entrance Light 2 to Long Jetty Light 7.
Beach Light. § 80.1126 Santa Barbara Harbor,
(c) A line drawn from Los Angeles CA.
Main Entrance Channel Light 2 to
Los Angeles Light. A line drawn from Santa Barbara
Harbor Light 4 to Santa Barbara
§ 80.1116 Redondo Harbor, CA. Harbor Breakwater Light.
A line drawn from Redondo Beach
East Jetty Light 2 to Redondo § 80.1130 San Luis Obispo Bay,
Beach West Jetty Light 3. CA.
A line drawn from the
§ 80.1118 Marina Del Rey, CA. southernmost extremity of Fossil
(a) A line drawn from Marina Del Point to the seaward extremity of
Rey Breakwater South Light 1 to Whaler Island Breakwater.
Marina Del Rey Light 4.
(b) A line drawn from Marina Del § 80.1132 Estero-Morro Bay, CA.
Rey Breakwater North Light 2 to A line drawn from the seaward
Marina Del Rey Light 3. extremity of the Morro Bay East
(c) A line drawn from Marina Del Breakwater to the Morro Bay
Rey Light 4 to the seaward West Breakwater Light.
extremity of the Ballona Creek
South Jetty. § 80.1134 Monterey Harbor, CA.
A line drawn from Monterey
§ 80.1120 Port Hueneme, CA. Harbor Light 6 to the northern
A line drawn from Port Hueneme extremity of Monterey Municipal
East Jetty Light 4 to Port Wharf 2.
Hueneme West Jetty Light 3.
§ 80.1136 Moss Landing Harbor,
§ 80.1122 Channel Islands CA.
Harbor, CA. A line drawn from the seaward
(a) A line drawn from Channel extremity of the pier located 0.3
Islands Harbor South Jetty Light 2 mile south of Moss Landing
to Channel Islands Harbor Harbor Entrance to the seaward
Breakwater South Light 1. extremity of the Moss Landing
(b) A line drawn from Channel Harbor North Breakwater.
Islands Harbor Breakwater North
Light to Channel Islands Harbor
North Jetty Light 5.
§ 80.1124 Ventura Marina, CA.

A line drawn from Ventura Marina
South Jetty Light 6 to Ventura
Marina Breakwater South Light 3;
194
§ 80.1138 Santa Cruz Harbor, CA. CA.
A line drawn from the seaward A line drawn from Crescent City
extremity of the Santa Cruz Entrance Light to the
Harbor East Breakwater to Santa southeasternmost extremity of
Cruz Harbor West Breakwater Whaler Island.
Light; thence to Santa Cruz Light.
THIRTEENTH DISTRICT
§ 80.1140 Pillar Point Harbor, CA. § 80.1305 Chetco River, OR.
A line drawn from Pillar Point A line drawn across the seaward
Harbor Light 6 to Pillar Point extremities of the Chetco River
Harbor Entrance Light. Entrance Jetties.
§ 80.1142 San Francisco Harbor, § 80.1310 Rogue River, OR.

CA. A line drawn across the seaward
A straight line drawn from Point extremities of the Rogue River
Bonita Light through Mile Rocks Entrance Jetties.
Light to the shore.
§ 80.1315 Coquille River, OR.
§ 80.1144 Bodega and Tomales A line drawn across the seaward
Bay, CA. extremities of the Coquille River
(a) An east-west line drawn from Entrance Jetties.
Sand Point to Avalis Beach. § 80.1320 Coos Bay, OR.
(b) A line drawn from the seaward A line drawn across the seaward
extremity of Bodega Harbor North extremities of the Coos Bay
Breakwater to Bodega Harbor Entrance Jetties.
Entrance Light 1.
§ 80.1325 Umpqua River, OR.
§ 80.1146 Albion River, CA. A line drawn across the seaward
A line drawn on an axis of 030° true extremities of the Umpqua
through Albion River Light 1 Entrance Jetties.
across Albion Cove.
§ 80.1330 Siuslaw River, OR.
§ 80.1148 Noyo River, CA. A line drawn across the seaward
A line drawn from Noyo River extremities of the Siuslaw River
Entrance Daybeacon 4 to Noyo Entrance Jetties.
River Entrance Light 5.
§ 80.1335 Alsea Bay, OR.
§ 80.1150 Arcata-Humboldt Bay, A line drawn from the seaward
CA. shoreline on the north of the
A line drawn from Humboldt Bay Alsea Bay Entrance 165° true
Entrance Light 4 to Humboldt Bay across the channel entrance.
Entrance Light 3.
§ 80.1152 Crescent City Harbor,
195
§ 80.1340 Yaquina Bay, OR. A line drawn across the seaward
A line drawn across the seaward extremities (above water) of the
extremities of Yaquina Bay Grays Harbor Entrance Jetties.
Entrance Jetties.
§ 80.1380 Quillayute River, WA.
§ 80.1345 Depoe Bay, OR. A line drawn from the seaward
A line drawn across the Depoe Bay extremity of the Quillayute River
Channel entrance parallel with Entrance East Jetty to the
the general trend of the highwater overhead power cable tower
shoreline. charted on James Island; thence
a straight line through Quillayute
§ 80.1350 Netarts Bay, OR. River Entrance Light 3 to the
A line drawn from the northernmost shoreline.
extremity of the shore on the
south side of Netarts Bay north to § 80.1385 Strait of Juan de Fuca.
the opposite shoreline. The 72 COLREGS shall apply on
all waters of the Strait of Juan de
§ 80.1355 Tillamook Bay, OR. Fuca.
A line drawn across the seaward
extremities of the Tillamook Bay § 80.1390 Haro Strait and Strait
Entrance Jetties. of Georgia.
§ 80.1360 Nehalem River, OR. all waters of the Haro Strait and
A line drawn approximately parallel the Strait of Georgia.
with the general trend of the
highwater shoreline across the § 80.1395 Puget Sound and
Nehalem River Entrance. Adjacent Waters.
§ 80.1365 Columbia River all waters of Puget Sound and
Entrance, OR/WA. adjacent waters, including Lake
A line drawn from the seaward Union, Lake Washington, Hood
extremity of the Columbia River Canal, and all tributaries.
North Jetty (above water) 155°
true to the seaward extremity of
the Columbia River South Jetty
(above water).
§ 80.1370 Willapa Bay, WA.

A line drawn from Willapa Bay Light
169.8° true to the westernmost
tripod charted 1.6 miles south of
Leadbetter Point.
§ 80.1375 Grays Harbor, WA.
196
PACIFIC ISLANDS
FOURTEENTH DISTRICT § 80.1470 Kawaihae Harbor,
Hawaii, Hl.
§ 80.1410 Hawaiian Island A line drawn from Kawaihae Light
Exemption from General Rule. to the seaward extremity of the
Except as provided elsewhere in Kawaihae South Breakwater.
this part for Mamala Bay and
Kaneohe Bay on Oahu; Port Allen § 80.1480 Hilo Harbor, Hawaii,
and Nawiliwili Bay on Kauai; Hl.
Kahului Harbor on Maui; and A line drawn from the seaward
Kawailae and Hilo Harbors on extremity of the Hilo Breakwater
Hawaii, the 72 COLREGS shall 265° true (as an extension of the
apply on all other bays, harbors, seaward side of the breakwater)
and lagoons of the Hawaiian to the shoreline 0.2 nautical mile
Island (including Midway). north of Alealea Point.
§ 80.1420 Mamala Bay, Oahu, Hl. § 80.1490 Apra Harbor, U.S.

A line drawn from Barbers Point Territory of Guam.
Light to Diamond Head Light. A line drawn from the westernmost
extremity of Orote Island to the
§ 80.1430 Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, westernmost extremity of Glass
Hl. Breakwater.
A straight line drawn from Pyramid
Rock Light across Kaneohe Bay § 80.1495 U.S. Pacific Island
through the center of Mokolii Possessions.
Island to the shoreline. The 72 COLREGS shall apply on
the bays, harbors, lagoons, and
§ 80.1440 Port Allen, Kauai, Hl. waters surrounding the U.S.
A line drawn from Hanapepe Light Pacific Island Possessions of
to Hanapepe Bay Breakwater American Samoa, Baker,
Light. Howland, Jarvis, Johnson,
Palmyra, Swains and Wake
§ 80.1450 Nawiliwili Harbor, Island.
Kauai, Hl.
A line drawn from Nawiliwili Harbor
Breakwater Light to Kukii Point
Light.
§ 80.1460 Kahului Harbor, Maui,

Hl.
A line drawn from Kahului Harbor
Entrance East Breakwater Light
to Kahului Harbor Entrance West
Breakwater Light.
197
ALASKA
SEVENTEENTH DISTRICT
§ 80.1705 Alaska
all the sounds, bays, harbors, and
inlets of Alaska.
198
PENALTY PROVISIONS
Violations of International Navigation Rules and Regulations
(33 U.S.C. 1608)
(a) Whoever operates a vessel, subject to the provisions of this Chapter, in

violation of this Chapter or of any regulation promulgated pursuant to section
1607 of this title, shall be liable to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for
each such violation.
(b) Every vessel subject to the provisions of this Chapter, other than a public
vessel being used for noncommercial purposes, which is operated in violation
of this Chapter or of any regulation promulgated pursuant to section 1607 of
this title, shall be liable to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 for each
such violation, for which penalty the vessel may be seized and proceeded
against in the district court of the United States of any district within which
such vessel may be found.
(c) The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating
may assess any civil penalty authorized by this section. No such penalty may
be assessed until the person charged, or the owner of the vessel charged, as
appropriate, shall have been given notice of the violation involved and an
opportunity for a hearing. For good cause shown, the Secretary may remit,
mitigate, or compromise any penalty assessed. Upon the failure of the person
charged, or the owner of the vessel charged, to pay an assessed penalty, as
it may have been mitigated or compromised, the Secretary may request the
Attorney General to commence an action in the appropriate district court of
the United States for collection of the penalty as assessed, without regard to
the amount involved, together with such other relief as may be appropriate.
Violations of Inland Navigation Rules and Regulations

(33 U.S.C. 2072)
(a) Whoever operates a vessel in violation of this Chapter, or of any

regulation issued thereunder, or in violation of a certificate of alternative
compliance issued under Rule 1 is liable to a civil penalty of not more than
$5,000 for each violation.
(b) Every vessel subject to this Chapter, other than a public vessel being
used for noncommercial purposes, that is operated in violation of this
Chapter, or of any regulation issued thereunder, or in violation of a certificate
of alternative compliance issued under Rule 1 is liable to a civil penalty of not
more than $5,000 for each violation, for which
199
penalty the vessel may be seized and proceeded against in the district court
of the United States of any district within which the vessel may be found.
(c) The Secretary may assess any civil penalty authorized by this section.
No such penalty may be assessed until the person charged, or the owner of
the vessel charged, as appropriate, shall have been given notice of the
violation involved and an opportunity for a hearing. For good cause shown,
the Secretary may remit, mitigate, or compromise any penalty assessed.
Upon the failure of the person charged, or the owner of the vessel charged, to
pay an assessed penalty, as it may have been mitigated or compromised, the
Secretary may request the Attorney General to commence an action in the
appropriate district court of the United States for collection of the penalty as
assessed, without regard to the amount involved, together with such other
relief as may be appropriate.
(d)
(1) If any owner, operator, or individual in charge of a vessel is liable for
a penalty under this section, or if reasonable cause exists to believe that
the owner, operator, or individual in charge may be subject to a penalty
under this section, the Secretary of the Treasury, upon the request of the
Secretary, shall with respect to such vessel refuse or revoke any
clearance required by section 4197 of the Revised Statutes of the United
States (46 App. U.S.C. 91).
(2) Clearance or a permit refused or revoked under this subsection may
be granted upon filing of a bond or other surety satisfactory to the
Secretary.
Penalties for Negligent Operations

Duties Related to Marine Casualty Assistance
and Information
Duty to Provide Assistance at Sea
Injunctions
(46 U.S.C. 2301-2305)
EXCERPT FROM TITLE 46 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE
CHAPTER 23—OPERATIONS OF VESSELS GENERALLY

[Enacted on August 26,1983]
Sec.
2301 Application
2302 Penalties for negligent operations.
2303 Duties related to marine casualty assistance.
2304 Duty to provide assistance at sea.
2305 Injunctions.
2306 Vessel reporting requirements.
200
§2301 Application
This chapter applies to a vessel operated on waters subject to the jurisdiction
of the United States and, for a vessel owned in the United States, on the high
seas.
§ 2302 Penalties for negligent operations

(a) A person operating a vessel in a negligent manner that endangers the
life, limb, or property of a person is liable to the United States Government for
a civil penalty of not more than $1,000.
(b) A person operating a vessel in a grossly negligent manner that
endangers the life, limb, or property of a person shall be fined not more than
$5,000, imprisoned for not more than one year, or both.
(c) An individual who is under the influence of alcohol, or a dangerous drug
in violation of a law of the United States when operating a vessel, as
determined under standards prescribed by the Secretary by regulation—
(1) is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not
more than $1,000 for a first violation and not more than $5,000 for a
subsequent violation; or
(2) commits a class A misdemeanor.
(d) For a penalty imposed under this section, the vessel also is liable in rem
unless the vessel is—
(1) owned by a State or a political subdivision of a State;
(2) operated principally for governmental purposes; and
(3) identified clearly as a vessel of that State or subdivision.
§ 2303 Duties related to marine casualty assistance and

information
(a) The master or individual in charge of a vessel involved in a marine
casualty shall—
(1) render necessary assistance to each individual affected to save that
affected individual from danger caused by the marine casualty, so far as
the master or individual in charge can do so without serious danger to
the master’s or individual’s vessel or to individuals on board; and
(2) give the master’s or individual’s name and address and identification
of the vessel to the master or individual in charge of any other vessel
involved in the casualty, to any individual injured, and to the owner of any
property damaged.
(b) An individual violating this section or a regulation prescribed under this
section shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned for not more than 2
years. The vessel also is liable in rem to the United States Government for
the fine.
201
(c) An individual complying with subsection (a) of this section or gratuitously
and in good faith rendering assistance at the scene of a marine casualty
without objection by an individual assisted, is not liable for damages as a
result of rendering assistance or for an act or omission in providing or
arranging salvage, towage, medical treatment, or other assistance when the
individual acts as an ordinary, reasonable, and prudent individual would have
acted under the circumstances.
§2304 Duty to provide assistance at sea

(a) A master or individual in charge of a vessel shall render assistance to
any individual found at sea in danger of being lost, so far as the master or
individual in charge can do so without serious danger to the master’s or
individual’s vessel or individuals on board.
(b) A master or individual violating this section shall be fined not more than
$1,000, imprisoned for not more than 2 years, or both.
§ 2305 Injunctions
(a) The district courts of the United States have jurisdiction to enjoin the
negligent operation of vessels prohibited by this chapter on the petition of the
Attorney General for the United States Government.
(b) When practicable, the Secretary shall—
(1) give notice to any person against whom an action for in junctive relief
is considered under this section an opportunity to present that person’s
views; and
(2) except for a knowing and willful violation, give the person a
reasonable opportunity to achieve compliance.
(c) The failure to give notice and opportunity to present views under
subsection (b) of this section does not preclude the court from granting
appropriate relief.
§ 2306 Vessel Reporting Requirements

(a)
(1) An owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent of a vessel of the
United States, having reason to believe (because of lack of
communication with or nonappearance of a vessel or any other incident)
that the vessel may have been lost or imperiled, immediately shall—
(A) notify the Coast Guard; and
(B) use all available means to determine the status of the vessel.
(2) When more than 48 hours have passed since the owner, charterer,
managing operator, or agent of a vessel required to report to the United
States Flag Merchant Vessel Location Filing
202
System under authority of section 212 (A) of the Merchant Marine Act,
1936 (46 App. U.S. C. 1122a), has received a communication from the
vessel, the owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent immediately
shall—
(A) notify the Coast Guard; and
(B) use all available means to determine the status of the vessel.
(3) A person notifying the Coast Guard under paragraph (1) or (2) of this
subsection shall provide the name and identification number of the
vessel, the names of individuals on board, and other information that
may be requested by the Coast Guard. The owner, charterer, managing
operator, or agent also shall submit written confirmation to the Coast
Guard 24 hours after nonwritten notification to the Coast Guard under
those paragraphs.
(4) An owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent violating this
subsection is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of
not more than $5,000 for each day during which the violation occurs.
(b)
(1) The master of a vessel of the United States required to report to the
System shall report to the owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent
at least once every 48 hours.
(2) A master violating this subsection is liable to the Government for a
civil penalty of not more than $1,000 for each day during which the
violation occurs.
(c) The Secretary may prescribe regulations to carry out this section.
203
ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCE
The alternative compliance procedures for the International Rules and the
Inland Rules are the same, although they appear both in the International
Rules section of the Code of Federal Regulations (33 CFR Part 81) and in the
Inland Rules section (33 CFR Part 89).
SEC
1. Definitions. 4. Certificate of Alternative Compliance: Contents.
2. General. 5. Certificate of Alternative Compliance: Termination.
3. Application for a Certificate of 6. Record of certification of vessels of special of.
Alternative Compliance construction or purpose.
1. Definitions.
As used in this part:
“72 COLREGS” refers to the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea, 1972, done at London, October 20, 1972, as rectified by
the Proces-Verbal of December 1, 1973, as amended.
“Inland Rules” refers to the Inland Navigation Rules contained in the Inland
Navigational Rules Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-591) and the technical annexes
established under that Act.
“A vessel of special construction or purpose” means a vessel designed or
modified to perform a special function and whose arrangement is thereby
made relatively inflexible.
“Interference with the special function of the vessel” occurs when installation
or use of lights, shapes, or sound-signaling appliances under the 72
COLREGS/Inland Rules prevents or significantly hinders the operation in
which the vessel is usually engaged.
2. General.
Vessels of special construction or purpose which cannot fully comply with
the light, shape, and sound signal provisions of the 72 COLREGS / Inland
Rules without interfering with their special function may instead meet
alternative requirements. The Chief of the Marine Safety Division in each
Coast Guard District Office makes this determination and requires that
alternative compliance be as close as possible with the 72 COLREGS / Inland
Rules. These regulations set out the procedure by which a vessel may be
certified for alternative compliance.
3. Application for a Certificate of Alternative Compliance.

(a) The owner, builder, operator, or agent of a vessel of special construction
or purpose who believes the vessel cannot fully comply with
204
the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules light, shape, or sound signal provisions
without interference with its special function may apply for a determination
that alternative compliance is justified. The application must be in writing,
submitted to the Chief of the Marine Safety Division of the Coast Guard
District in which the vessel is being built or operated, and include the following
information:
(1) The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
(2) The identification of the vessel by its:
(i) Official number;
(ii) Shipyard hull number;
(iii) Hull identification number; or
(iv) State number, if the vessel does not have an official number or
hull identification number.
(3) Vessel name and home port, if known.
(4) A description of the vessel’s area of operation.
(5) A description of the provision for which the Certificate of Alternative
Compliance is sought, including:
(i) The 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules Rule or Annex section number for
which the Certificate of Alternative Compliance is sought;
(ii) A description of the special function of the vessel that would be
interfered with by full compliance with the provision of that Rule or
Annex section; and (iii) A statement of how full compliance would
interfere with the special function of the vessel.
(6) A description of the alternative installation that is in closest possible
compliance with the applicable 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules Rule or
Annex section.
(7) A copy of the vessel’s plans or an accurate scale drawing that clearly
shows—
(i) The required installation of the equipment under the 72
COLREGS/Inland Rules,
(ii) The proposed installation of the equipment for which certification is
being sought, and
(iii) Any obstructions that may interfere with the equipment when
installed in:
(A) The required location; and
(B) The proposed location.
(b) The Coast Guard may request from the applicant additional information
concerning the application.
205
4. Certificate of Alternative Compliance: Contents.
The Chief of the Marine Safety Division issues the Certificate of Alternative
Compliance to the vessel based on a determination that it cannot comply fully
with 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules light, shape, and sound signal provisions
without interference with its special function.
This Certificate includes:
(a) Identification of the vessel as supplied in the application;
(b) The provision of the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules for which the Certificate
authorizes alternative compliance;
(c) A certification that the vessel is unable to comply fully with the 72
COLREGS/Inland Rules light, shape, and sound signal requirements without
interference with its special function;
(d) A statement of why full compliance would interfere with the special
function of the vessel;
(e) The required alternative installation;
(f) A statement that the required alternative installation is in the closest
possible compliance with the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules without interfering
with the special function of the vessel;
(g) The date of issuance;
(h) A statement that the Certificate of Alternative Compliance terminates
when the vessel ceases to be usually engaged in the operation for which the
certificate is issued.
5. Certificate of Alterative Compliance: Termination.

The Certificate of Alternative Compliance terminates if the information
supplied under 3.(a) or the Certificate issued under 4 is no longer applicable
to the vessel.
6. Record of certification of vessels of special construction or purpose.

(a) Copies of Certificates of Alternative Compliance and documentation
concerning Coast Guard vessels are available for inspection at the offices of
Assistant Commandant for Marine Safety and Environmental Protection, U.S.
Coast Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second Street, S.W., Washington, D.C.
20593-0001.
(b) The owner or operator of a vessel issued a certificate shall ensure that
the vessel does not operate unless the Certificate of Alternative Compliance
or a certified copy of that certificate is on board the vessel and available for
inspection by Coast Guard personnel.
206
WATERS SPECIFIED BY THE SECRETARY
33 CFR §89.25 Waters upon which Inland Rules 9(a)(ii), 14(d),
and 15(b) apply.
Inland Rules 9(a)(ii), 14(d), and 15(b) apply on the Great Lakes, the Western
Rivers, and the following specified waters:
(1) Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway;

(2) Tombigbee River;
(3) Black Warrior River;
(4) Alabama River;
(5) Coosa River
(6) Mobile River above the Cochrane Bridge at St Louis Point;
(7) Flint River;
(8) Chattahoochee River, and
(9) The Apalachicola River above its confluence with the Jackson River.
33 CFR §89.27 Waters upon which Inland Rule 24(i) applies.

(a) Inland Rule 24(i) applies on the Western Rivers and the specified waters
listed in §89.25 (a) through (i).
(b) Inland Rule 24(i) applies on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from St.
Marks, Florida, to the Rio Grande, Texas, including the Morgan City-Port
Allen Alternate Route and the Galveston-Freeport Cutoff, except that a power-
driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside shall exhibit the lights
required by Inland Rule 24(c), while transiting within the following areas:
(1) St. Andrews Bay from the Hathaway Fixed Bridge at Mile 284.6 East of Harvey Locks (EHL) to
the DuPont Fixed Badge at Mile 295.4 EHL.
(2) Pensacola Bay, Santa Rosa Sound and Big Lagoon from the Light “10” off of Trout Point at
Mile 176.9 EHL to the Pensacola Fixed Bridge at Mile 189.1 EHL
(3) Mobile Bay and Bon Secour Bay from the Dauphin Island Causeway Fixed Bridge at Mile
127.7 EHL to Little Point Clear at Mile 140 EHL.
(4) Mississippi Sound from Grand Island Waterway Light “1” at Mile 53.8 EHL to Light “40” off the
West Point of Dauphin Island at Mile 118.7 EHL
(5) The Mississippi River at New Orleans, Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet Canal and the Inner
Harbor Navigation Canal from the junction of the Harvey Canal and the Algiers Alternate Route at
Mile 6.5 West of Harvey Locks (WHL) to the Michoud Canal at Mile 18 EHL.
(6) The Calcasieu River from the Calcasieu Lock at Mile 238.6 WHL to the Ellender Lift Bridge at
Mile 243.6 WHL.
(7) The Sabine Neches Canal from Mile 262.5 WHL to Mile 291.5 WHL.
(8) Bolivar Roads from the Bolivar Assembling Basin at Mile 346 WHL to the Galveston
Causeway Bridge at Mile 357.3 WHL.
(9) Freeport Harbor from Surfside Beach Fixed Bridge at Mile 393.8 WHL to the Bryan Beach
Pontoon Bridge at Mile 397.6 WHL.
(10) Matagorda Ship Channel area of Matagorda Bay from Range “K” Front Light at Mile 468.7
WHL to the Port O’Connor Jetty at Mile 472.2 WHL.
(11) Corpus Christi Bay from Redfish Bay Day Beacon “55” at Mile 537.4 WHL when in the Gulf
Intracoastal Waterway main route or from the north end of Lydia Ann Island Mile 531.1A when in
the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway Alternate Route to Corpus Christi Bay LT 76 at Mile 543.7 WHL.
(12) Port Isabel and Brownsville Ship Channel south of the Padre Island Causeway Fixed Bridge
at Mile 665.1 WHL.
207
VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE
RADIOTELEPHONE REGULATIONS
33 CFR 26
The Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act is applicable on navigable
waters of the United States inside the boundary lines established in 46 CFR
7. In all cases, the Act applies on waters subject to the Inland Rules. The Act
applies out to the three mile limit. In no instance does the Act apply beyond
the three mile limit.
Sec. Sec.
26.01 Purpose. 26.06 Maintenance of radiotelephone;
26.02 Definitions. failure of radiotelephone.
26.03 Radiotelephone required. 26.07 Communications.
26.04 Use of the designated frequency. 26.08 Exemption procedures.
26.05 Use of radiotelephone. 26.09 List of exemptions.
§ 26.01 Purpose.
(a) The purpose of this part is to implement the provisions of the Vessel
Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act. This part:
(1) Requires the use of the vessel bridge-to-bridge radiotelephone;
(2) Provides the Coast Guard’s interpretation of the meaning of important
terms in the Act;
(3) Prescribes the procedures for applying for an exemption from the Act
and the regulations issued under the Act and a listing of exemptions.
(b) Nothing in this part relieves any person from the obligation of complying
with the rules of the road and the applicable pilot rules.
§ 26.02 Definitions.
For the purpose of this part and interpreting the Act:
“Secretary” means the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard
is operating;
“Act” means the “Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act”, 33 U.S.C.
sections 1201-1208;
“Length” is measured from end to end over the deck excluding sheer;
“Power-driven vessel” means any vessel propelled by machinery;
“Towing vessel means any commercial vessel engaged in towing another
vessel astern, alongside, or by pushing ahead;
“Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)” means a service implemented under Part 161
of this chapter by the United States Coast Guard designed to improve the
safety and efficiency of vessel traffic and to protect the environment.
The VTS has the capability to interact with marine traffic and respond to traffic
situations developing in the VTS area; and
“Vessel Traffic Service Area or VTS Area” means the geographical area
encompassing a specific VTS area of service as described in Part 161 of
this chapter. This area of service may be subdivided into
208
sectors for the purpose of allocating responsibility to individual Vessel
Traffic Centers or to identify different operating requirements.
Note: Although regulatory jurisdiction is limited to the navigable waters of the United
States, certain vessels will be encouraged or may be required, as a condition of port
entry, to report beyond this area to facilitate traffic management within the VTS area.
§ 26.03 Radiotelephone required.

(a) Unless an exemption is granted under §26.09 and except as provided in
paragraph (a) (4) of this section, this part applies to:
(i) Every power-driven vessel of 20 meters or over in length while
navigating;
(ii) Every vessel of 100 gross tons and upward carrying one or more
passengers for hire while navigating;
(iii) Every towing vessel of 26 feet or over in length while navigating;
and
(iv) Every dredge and floating plant engaged in or near a channel or
fairway in operations likely to restrict or affect navigation of other
vessels except for an unmanned or intermittently manned floating
plant under the control of a dredge.
(b) Every vessel, dredge, or floating plant described in paragraph (a) of this
section must have a radiotelephone on board capable of operation from its
navigational bridge, or in the case of a dredge, from its main control station,
and capable of transmitting and receiving on the frequency or frequencies
within the 156-162 Mega-Hertz band using the classes of emissions
designated by the Federal Communications Commission for the exchange of
navigational information.
(c) The radiotelephone required by paragraph (b) of this section must be
carried on board the described vessels, dredges, and floating plants upon the
navigable waters of the United States.
(d) The radiotelephone required by paragraph (b) of this section must be
capable of transmitting and receiving on VHF FM channel 22A (157.1 MHz).
(e) While transiting any of the following waters, each vessel described in
paragraph (a) of this section also must have on board a radiotelephone
capable of transmitting and receiving on VHF FM channel 67 (156.375 MHz):
(1) The lower Mississippi River from the territorial sea boundary, and
within either the Southwest Pass safety fairway or the South Pass safety
fairway specified in 33 CFR 166.200, to mile 242.4 AHP (Above Head of
Passes) near Baton Rouge;
(2) The Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet from the territorial sea boundary,
and within the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet Safety Fairway specified in
33 CFR 166.200, to that channel’s junction with the Inner Harbor
Navigation Canal; and
209
(3) The full length of the Inner Harbor Navigation Canal from its junction
with the Mississippi River to that canal’s entry to Lake Pontchartrain at
the New Seabrook vehicular bridge.
(f) In addition to the radiotelephone required by paragraph (b) of this section,
each vessel described in paragraph (a) of this section while transiting any
waters within a Vessel Traffic Service Area, must have on board a
radiotelephone capable of transmitting and receiving on the VTS designated
frequency in Table 26.03(f) (VTS Call Signs, Designated Frequencies, and
Monitoring Areas) . (Located on pages 214 and 215.)
Note: A single VHF FM radio capable of scanning or sequential monitoring (often

referred to as “dual watch” capability) will not meet the requirements for two radios.
§ 26.04 Use of the designated frequency.

(a) No person may use the frequency designated by the Federal
Communications Commission under section 8 of the Act, 33 U.S.C. 1207(a),
to transmit any information other than information necessary for the safe
navigation of vessels or necessary tests.
(b) Each person who is required to maintain a listening watch under section
5 of the Act shall, when necessary, transmit and confirm, on the designated
frequency, the intentions of his vessel and any other information necessary
for the safe navigation of vessels.
(c) Nothing in these regulations may be construed as prohibiting the use of
the designated frequency to communicate with shore stations to obtain or
furnish information necessary for the safe navigation of vessels.
(d) On the navigable waters of the United States, channel 13 (156.65 MHz)
is the designated frequency required to be monitored in accordance with
§26.05(a) except that in the area prescribed in §26.03(e), channel 67
(156.375 MHz) is an additional frequency.
(e) On those navigable waters of the United States within a VTS area, the
designated VTS frequency is the designated frequency required to be
monitored in accordance with §26.05.
Note: As stated in 47 CFR 80.148(b), a VHF watch on Channel 16 (156.800Mhz) is not

required on vessels subject to the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act and
participating in a Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system when the watch is maintained on
both the vessel bridge-to-bridge frequency and a designated VTS frequency.
§ 26.05 Use of Radiotelephone.

Section 5 of the Act states that the radiotelephone required by this
Act is for the exclusive use of the master or person in charge of the vessel, or
the person designated by the master or person in charge
210
to pilot or direct the movement of the vessel, who shall maintain a listening
watch on the designated frequency. Nothing herein shall be interpreted as
precluding the use of portable radiotelephone equipment to satisfy the
requirements of this Act.
§ 26.06 Maintenance of radiotelephone; failure of radiotelephone.

Section 6 of the Act states that whenever radiotelephone capability is
required by this Act, a vessel’s radiotelephone equipment shall be maintained
in effective operating condition. If the radiotelephone equipment carried
aboard a vessel ceases to operate, the master shall exercise due diligence to
restore it or cause it to be restored to effective operating condition at the
earliest practicable time. The failure of a vessel’s radiotelephone equipment
shall not, in itself, constitute a violation of this Act, nor shall it obligate the
master of any vessel to moor or anchor his vessel; however, the loss of
radiotelephone capability shall be given consideration in the navigation of the
vessel.
§ 26.07 Communications.
No person may use the services of, and no person may serve as, a person
required to maintain a listening watch under section 5 of the Act, 33 U.S.C.
1204, unless the person can communicate in the English language.
§ 26.08 Exemption procedures.

(a) The Commandant has redelegated to the Assistant Commandant for
Marine Safety and Environmental Protection, U.S. Coast Guard
Headquarters, with the reservation that this authority shall not be further
redelegated, the authority to grant exemptions from provisions of the Vessel
Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act and this part.
(b) Any person may petition for an exemption from any provision of the Act
or this part;
(c) Each petition must be submitted in writing to U.S. Coast Guard, Marine
Safety and Environmental Protection, 2100 Second Street, S.W., Washington,
D.C. 20593-0001, and must state:
(1) The provisions of the Act or this part from which an exemption is
requested; and
(2) The reasons why marine navigation will not be adversely affected if
the exemption is granted and if the exemption relates to a local
communication system how that system would fully comply with the
intent of the concept of the Act but would not conform in detail if the
exemption is granted.
211
§ 26.09 List of Exemptions.
(a) All vessels navigating on those waters governed by the navigation rules
for the Great Lakes and their connecting and tributary waters (33 U.S.C. 241
et seq.) are exempt from the requirements of the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge
Radiotelephone Act and this part until May 6, 1975.
(b) Each vessel navigating on the Great Lakes as defined in the Inland
Navigation Rules Act of 1980 (33 U.S.C. 2001 et seq.) and to which the
Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act (33 U.S.C. 1201-1208) applies
is exempt from the requirements in 33 U.S.C. 1203, 1204, and 1205 and the
regulations under §§26.03, 26.04, 26.05, 26.06, and 26.07. Each of these
vessels and each person to whom 33 U.S.C. 1208(a) applies must comply
with Articles Vll, X, Xl, Xll, XlIl, XV, and XVI and Technical Regulations 1-9 of
“The Agreement Between the United States of America and Canada for
Promotion of Safety on the Great Lakes by Means of Radio, 1973.”
212
[BLANK]
213
VTS1 DESIGNATED FREQUENCY 2 MONITORING AREA
Call Sign (Channel designation)
NEW YORK3 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11 ) & The navigable waters of the Lower New York Harbor bounded on the east by a line drawn from Norton
New York Traffic4 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14) Point to Breezy Point; on the south by a line connecting the entrance buoys at the Ambrose Channel,
Swash Channel and Sandy Hook Channel to Sandy Hook Point; and on the southeast including the
waters of the Sandy Hook Ba y south to a line drawn at latitude 40° 25’
N.; then west into waters of the Raritan Bay to the Raritan River Rail Road Bridge; and then north
including the waters of the Arthur Kill and Newark Bay to the Lehigh Valley Draw Bridge at latitude 40°
41.95’ N.; and then east including the waters of the Kill Van Kull and Upper New York Bay north to a line
drawn east-west from the Holland Tunnel Ventilator Shaft at latitude 40° 43.7’ N.; longitude 74° 01.6’ W.
in the Hudson River; and continuing east including the waters of the East River to the Throgs Neck
Bridge, excluding the Harlem River.
156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) Each vessel at anchor within the above areas.
HOUSTON 3 The navigable waters north of 29° N., west of 94° 20’ W., south of 29° 49’ N., and east of 95° 20’ W.
Houston Traffic
The navigable waters north of a line extending due west from the southern most end of Exxon Dock
156.550 MHz (Ch. 11) #1 (29° 43.37’ N., 95° 01.27’ W.).
The navigable waters south of a line extending due west from the southern most end of Exxon Dock
214
156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) #1 (29° 43.37’ N., 95° 01.27 W.).
BERWICK BAY 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11) The navigable waters south of 29° 45’ N., west of 91° 10’ W., north of 29° 37’ N., and east of 91° 18’
Berwick Traffic W.
ST. MARYS RIVER 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) The navigable waters of the St. Marys River between 45° 57’ N. (De Tour Reef Light) and 46° 38.7’
Soo Control N. (lle Parisienne Light), except the St. Marys Falls Canal and those navigable waters east of a line
from 46° 04.16’N. and 46° 01.57’ N. (La Pointe to Sims Point in Patagannissing Bay and Worsley
Bay).
DESIGNATED FREQUENCIES, AND MONITORING AREAS
SAN FRANCISCO 3 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) The waters within a 38 nautical mile radius of Mount Tamalpais (37° 55.8’ N., 122° 34.6’ W.)
San Francisco Offshore Vessel excluding the San Francisco Offshore Precautionary Area.
TABLE 26.03(f) – VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICES (VTS) CALL SIGNS,
Movement Reporting Service
San Francisco Traffic 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14) The waters of the San Francisco Offshore Precautionary Area eastward to San Francisco Bay
including its tributaries extending to the ports of Stockton, Sacramento and Redwood City.
TABLE 26.03(f) – VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICES (VTS) CALL SIGNS,
DESIGNATED FREQUENCIES, AND MONITORING AREAS (Continued)
Notes
north of a line connecting Marrowstone Point and Lagoon Point and all waters east of Whidbey Island north of
Georgia east of 122° 52’ W.; the San Juan Island Archipelago, Rosario Strait, Bellingham Bay; Admiralty Inlet
The navigable waters of the Strait of Georgia west of 122° 52’ W., the navigable waters of the central Strait of
Juan de Fuca north and east of Race Rocks, Including the Gulf Island Archipelago, Boundary Pass and Haro
The waters west of 124° 40’ W. within 50 nautical miles of the coast of Vancouver Island including the waters
1. VTS regulations are denoted in 33 CFR
The navigable waters of the Ohio River between McAlpine Locks (Mile 606) and Twelve Mile Island (Mile
The navigable waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca east of 124° 40’ W. excluding the waters in the central
The navigable waters south of 61° 05’ N., east of 147° 20’ W., north of 60° N., and west of 146° 30’ W.;
Part 161. All geographic coordinates (latitude
a line drawn due east from the southernmost tip of Possession Point on Whidbey Island to the shoreline.
portion of the Strait of Juan de Fuca north and east of Race Rocks; the navigable waters of the Strait of
and longitude) are expressed in North
American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
Marrowstone Point and Lagoon Point in Admiralty inlet and south of a line drawn due east from the
The navigable waters of Puget Sound, Hood Canal and adjacent waters south of a line connecting
2. In the event of a communication failure

either by the vessel traffic center or the vessel
or radio congestion on a designated VTS
593), only when the McAlpine upper pool gauge is at approximately 13.0 feet or above.
frequency, communications may be
established on an alternate VTS frequency.
The bridge-to-bridge navigational frequency
156.650 MHz (Channel 13), is monitored in
each VTS area; and it may be used as an
alternate frequency, however, only to the
southernmost tip of Possession Point on Whidbey Island to the shoreline.
extent that doing so provides a level of safety

beyond that provided by other means.
3. Designated frequency monitoring is

required within U.S. navigable waters. In areas
which are outside the U.S. navigable waters,
designated frequency monitoring is voluntary.
However, prospective VTS Users are
encouraged to monitor the designated
frequency.
4. VMRS participants shall make their initial

and, all navigable waters in Port Valdez.
report (Sail Plan) to New York Traffic on

Channel 11 (156.550 MHz). All other reports,
north of 48° N ., and east of 127° W.
including the Final Report, shall be made on

Channel 14 (156.700 MHz.). VMRS and other
VTS Users shall monitor Channel 14 (156.700
MHz) while transiting the VTS area. New York
MONITORING AREA
Traffic may direct a vessel to monitor and

report on either primary frequency depending
on traffic density, weather conditions, or other
safety factors. This does not require a vessel
to monitor both primary frequencies.
5. A Cooperative Vessel Traffic Service was

established by the United States and Canada
Strait.
within adjoining waters. The appropriate

vessel traffic center administers the rules
issued by both nations; however, it will enforce
only its own set of rules within its jurisdiction.
6. Seattle Traffic may direct a vessel to

DESIGNATED FREQUENCY 2
monitor the other primary VTS frequency

156.250 MHz or 156.700 MHz (Channel 5A or
14) depending on traffic density, weather
(Channel designation)
conditions, or other safety factors, rather than

156.650 MHz (Ch. 13)
156.650 MHz (Ch. 13)
strictly adhering to the designated frequency

156.250 MHz (Ch. 5A)
156.700 MHz (Ch. 14)
156.725 MHz (Ch. 74)
156.550 MHz (Ch. 11)
required for each monitoring area as defined

above. This does not require a vessel to
monitor both primary frequencies.
7. A portion of Tofino Sector’s monitoring

area extends beyond the defined CVTS area.
Designated frequency monitoring is voluntary
in these portions outside of VTS jurisdiction,
however, prospective VTS Users are
encouraged to monitor the designated
frequency.
PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND 8
8. The bridge-to-bridge navigational

frequency, 156.650 MHz (Channel 13), is used
in these VTSs because the level of radio-
Louisville Traffic
telephone transmissions does not warrant a

PUGET SOUND 5
Seattle Traffic 6
Vancouver Traffic
Valdez Traffic
designated VTS frequency. The listening

8
Tofino Traffic7
watch required by 26.05 of this chapter is not

LOUISVILLE
Call Sign
limited to the monitoring area.

VTS1
215
NOTES
216
NOTES
217
NOTES
218

Navigation Rules of The Road

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Navigation Rules of The Road

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U.S.

PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES........................................ 12

PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES ......................................................... 38

PART D—SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS........................................... 114

PART E—EXEMPTIONS ..................................................................... 128

ANNEX I - Positioning and Technical Details of Lights

The 72 COLREGS were developed by the Inter-Governmental Maritime

These Rules are applicable on waters outside of established navigational

Following the signing of the Convention on the International Regulations for

VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE

PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES

Section I—Conduct of Vessels in Any

PART B—STEERING AND SAILING RULES

Subpart I—Conduct of Vessels in Any

Section II—Conduct of Vessels in Sight of

Subpart II—Conduct of Vessels in Sight of

Section III—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted

Subpart III—Conduct of Vessels in Restricted

PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES

PART C—LIGHTS AND SHAPES

Power-driven vessel underway. Same for Inland.

Power-driven vessel underway - less than 50 meters in length.

Air-cushion vessel when operating in the nondisplacement mode -

Air-cushion vessel when operating in the displacement mode -

Power-driven vessel of less than 7 meters in length whose maximum speed

Power-driven vessel of less than 12 meters in length. Same for

Power-driven vessel on Great Lakes.

Power-driven vessel towing astern - towing vessel less than 50 meters in

Power-driven vessel towing astern - towing vessel less than 50 meters in

Composite unit underway. Same for Inland.

Composite unit underway - less than 50 meters in length.

Power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside—towing vessel

Power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongside—towing

(e) A vessel or object being towed, other than those mentioned in

Power-driven vessel towing astern—length of tow 200 meters or less. When

Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.

Vessel being towed alongside.

Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.

Vessel being towed alongside.

Dracone being towed.

Power-driven vessel pushing ahead on Western Rivers. (above the

Sailing vessel underway. Same for Inland.

Sailing vessel underway—less than 20 meters in length.

Sailing vessel underway. Same for Inland.

Sailing vessel underway—less than 7 meters in length.

Vessel under oars. Same for International.

Vessel proceeding under sail when also being propelled by

Vessel engaged in trawling—not making way. Same for Inland.

Vessel engaged in trawling—not making way; vessel less than 50

Vessel engaged in trawling—making way; vessel less than 50

Vessel engaged in trawling—making way. Same for International.

Vessel engaged in fishing other than trawling—making way.

Vessel engaged in fishing other than trawling—not making way.

Vessel not under command—not making way. Same for Inland.

Vessel not under command—making way. Same for International.

Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver—making way; vessel

(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, except a vessel engaged

Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver—at anchor; vessel less