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Learn/Collision Regulations/Introduction to COLREGs

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Automated technical check · version 1 ·

RIEAM and COLREGs: find a subject in the regulations

A map of the document for learning rules without reducing them to isolated phrases.

4 min read
Manual contents
In this guide
Schematic COLREGs contents: Part A, Rules 1 to 3, definitions and application; B, 4 to 19, steering and sailing; C, 20 to 31, lights and shapes; D, 32 to 37, sound and light signals; E, 38, exemptions; F, 39 to 41, verification of compliance. The diagram states 41 rules, six parts and four annexes.
A map of COLREGs

Original schematic illustration. Read the explanation and limitations in the lesson.

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Enlarge the diagram
Schematic COLREGs contents: Part A, Rules 1 to 3, definitions and application; B, 4 to 19, steering and sailing; C, 20 to 31, lights and shapes; D, 32 to 37, sound and light signals; E, 38, exemptions; F, 39 to 41, verification of compliance. The diagram states 41 rules, six parts and four annexes.

A search for “who has priority?” can lead straight to a short sentence. Starting with the contents is more useful: it shows that definitions, application conditions, lights and signals belong to the same document. This lesson explains how to find your way through the text, without deciding encounters between boats.

PartRulesSubject
A1–3General provisions and definitions
B4–19Steering and sailing
C20–31Lights and shapes
D32–37Sound and light signals
E38Exemptions
F39–41Verification of compliance

Look for the section too

Part B is divided by conditions: any visibility, vessels in sight and restricted visibility. Knowing where a rule sits helps explain why an isolated quotation can lose context. Four annexes cover details of lights and shapes, fishing signals, sound-signal appliances and distress signals.

This library links to official references with their edition and consultation date. An educational contents map does not replace the applicable text, practical training or local rules. Future lessons containing operational interpretation will undergo their own review before publication.

Sources and references

  1. Regulamento Internacional para Evitar Abalroamentos no Mar ↗

    Instituto Hidrográfico · September 2025 · Portuguese and English rule text; Rule 21(b)

    Version: September 2025. Jurisdiction: International; Portuguese official publication. Official free-download page identifies September 2025. Source access does not grant reuse rights.

    Checked on
  2. Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 ↗

    International Maritime Organization · COLREG 1972, as amended · Structure: Parts A–F, 41 rules, four annexes

    Version: COLREG 1972, as amended. Jurisdiction: International.

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