USCG Navigation Rules

U.S.
Department
NAVIGATION RULES
of Transportation
United States
Coast Guard
NAVIGATION RULES
INTERNATIONALINLAND
COMDTINST M16672.2D
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 AND REGULATIONS

International and Inland
PART AGeneral
Rule 1Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Rule 2Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Rule 3General Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
PART BSteering and Sailing Rules

Section/Subpart IConduct of Vessels In Any Condition of
Visibility
Rule 4Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rule 5Look-out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Rule 6Safe Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Rule 7Risk of Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Rule 8Action to Avoid Collision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Rule 9Narrow Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Rule 10Traffic Separation Schemes/Vessel Traffic Services . . . 22
Section/Subpart IIConduct of Vessels In Sight of One Another
Rule 11Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Rule 12Sailing Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Rule 13Overtaking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Rule 14Head-on Situation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rule 15Crossing Situation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rule 16Action by Give-way Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Rule 17Action by Stand-on Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Rule 18Responsibilities Between Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Section/Subpart IIIConduct of Vessels In Restricted Visibility
Rule 19Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility . . . . . . . . . 36
PART CLights and Shapes

Rule 20Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Rule 21Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Rule 22Visibility of Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Rule 23Power-driven Vessels Underway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Rule 24Towing and Pushing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Rule 25Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars . . . 72
Rule 26Fishing Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Rule 27Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in
Their Ability to Maneuver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
ii
Rule 28Vessels Constrained by Their Draft/[Reserved] . . . . . 102
Rule 29Pilot Vessels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Rule 30Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground . . . . . . . . . 106
Rule 31Seaplanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
PART DSound and Light Signals

Rule 32Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Rule 33Equipment for Sound Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Rule 34Maneuvering and Warning Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Rule 35Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Rule 36Signals to Attract Attention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Rule 37Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
PART EExemptions
Rule 38Exemptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
ANNEX IPOSITIONING AND TECHNICAL DETAILS OF LIGHTS

AND SHAPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
ANNEX IIADDITIONAL SIGNALS FOR FISHING VESSELS
FISHING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
ANNEX lIITECHNICAL DETAILS OF SOUND SIGNAL
APPLIANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
ANNEX IVDISTRESS SIGNALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
ANNEX V[BLANK] /PILOT RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
INTERPRETATIVE RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
COLREGS DEMARCATION LINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
PENALTY PROVISIONS
Violations of International Navigation Rules and Regulations . . . . 199
Violations of Inland Navigation Rules and Regulations . . . . . . . . . 199
Penalties for negligent operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Duties related to marine casualty assistance and information . . . 201
Duty to provide assistance at sea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Injunctions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Vessel Reporting Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202
ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCEInternational & Inland . . . . . . . . . . 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, IMOs 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 navi-
gational 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
INTRODUCTIONCONTINUED
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 com-
plexities of water transportation. Eventually, the navigation rules for
United States inland waterways became such a confusing patchwork
of requirements that in the 1960s 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 sim-
ilar 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 CFR 84
Details of Lights and Shapes
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 . . . . . . . . . . . 33 CFR 89
Rules
Inland Navigation Rules: Interpretative . . . . . . . . . . . 33 CFR 90
Rules
VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE

Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone . . . . . . . Public Law 92-63;
Act . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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 47 CFR 80.1001 -80.1023
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.
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26.2 ft.
7 M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23.0 ft.
6 M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19.7 ft.
5 M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16.4 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.
.6M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23.6 in.
.5 M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19.7 in.
300 Millimeters (mm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11.8 in.
200 mm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7.9 in.
vii
NAVIGATION RULES
INTERNATIONALINLAND
1
INTERNATIONAL
General
PART AGENERAL
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 spe-
cial 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 addi-
tional 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 Rules.1
1 Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an intermittent flashing

amber (yellow) beacon with a sequence of operation 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 707 of Title
32, Code of Federal Regulations (32 CFR 707).
2
INLAND
General
PART AGENERAL
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 addi-
tional 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 sig-
nal 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 Rules.1
1 Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an intermittent flash-

ing amber (yellow) beacon with a sequence of operation 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
707 of Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations (32 CFR 707).
3
INTERNATIONAL
General
RULE 1CONTINUED
(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-signalling appliances, such
vessel shall comply with such other provisions in regard to the num-
ber, position, range or arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as
to the disposition and characteristics of sound-signalling 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 purpos-

es 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, posi-
tion, range, or arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to the dis-
position and characteristics of sound-signalling appliances, the ves-
sel 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-signalling appliances, as the
Secretary shall have determined to be the closest possible compli-
ance with these Rules. The Secretary may issue a certificate of alter-
native compliance for a vessel or class of vessels specifying the clos-
est 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 contract-
ing 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 spe-
cial 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 other-
wise 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 fish-
ing 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 maneuver-
ability.
(e) The word seaplane includes any aircraft designed to maneu-
ver 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 precau-
tion 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 maneu-

ver 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 3CONTINUED
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 opera-

tions;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, pro-

visions 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-dri-

ven vessel which, because of her draft in relation to the available
depth and width of navigable water is severely restricted in her abili-
ty 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.
(I) The term restricted visibility means any condition in which vis-
ibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sand-
storms or any other similar causes.
8
INLAND
General
RULE 3CONTINUED
(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 opera-

tions;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, pro-

visions, 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 vis-
ibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sand-
storms, or any other similar causes;
9
INTERNATIONAL
General
[BLANK]
10
INLAND
General
RULE 3CONTINUED
(I) 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.
OBrien 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 BSTEERING AND SAILING RULES
Section IConduct 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 pre-
vailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of
the situation and of the risk of collision.
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PART BSTEERING AND SAILING RULES
Subpart IConduct 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 pre-
vailing circumstances and conditions so as to make a full appraisal of
the situation and of the risk of collision.
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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 ves-
sels or any other vessels;
(iii) the maneuverability of the vessel with special reference
to stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing cond-
itions;
(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 ves-
sels or other objects in the vicinity.
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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 ves-
sels or any other vessels;
(iii) the maneuverability of the vessel with special reference
to stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing con-
ditions;
(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 ves-
sels or other objects in the vicinity.
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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 colli-
sion 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 oper-
ational, 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 informa-
tion, especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision exists the following considera-
tions 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.
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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 colli-
sion 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 oper-
ational, 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 informa-
tion, especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision exists the following considera-
tions 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; 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.
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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 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 succes-
sion 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 stop-
ping 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 pas-
sage 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 succes-
sion 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 stop-
ping 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 pas-
sage 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 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 indi-
cate her intention by sounding the appropriate signal pre-
scribed 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 oblig-
ation under Rule 13.
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fair-
way where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruc-
tion 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 fair-
way 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 pro-
pose 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 agree-
ment, 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 oblig-
ation under Rule 13.
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fair-
way where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruc-
tion 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 safe-
ly use the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separa-
tion 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 struc-
ture, 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 separa-
tion 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 safe-
ly use the appropriate traffic lane within the adjacent traffic separa-
tion 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 separa-
tion schemes shall do so with particular caution.
(g)A vessel shall so far as practicable avoid anchoring in a traffic sep-
aration 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 10CONTINUED
(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.
(I) 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 comply-
ing with this Rule to the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
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RULE 10CONTINUED
(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.
(I) 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 comply-
ing with this Rule to the extent necessary to carry out the operation.
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Section IIConduct 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 car-
ried 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 IIConduct 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 ves-
sels 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 ves-
sels 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 mast-
head 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 ves-
sel.
(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 follow-
ing 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 compliance with these Rules.
(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 compliance with these Rules.
(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 pos-
sible, 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 con-
strained by her draft, exhibiting the signals in Rule 28.
(ii) A vessel constrained by her draft shall navigate with partic-
ular 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, how-
ever, where risk of collision exists, she shall comply with the Rules of
this Part.
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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 pos-
sible, 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, how-
ever, where risk of collision exists, she shall comply with the Rules of
this Part.
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Section IIIConduct 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 pre-
vailing 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 circum-
stances 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 sit-
uation 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.
36
INLAND
Subpart IIIConduct 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 pre-
vailing 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 circum-
stances 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 close-
quarters 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 CLIGHTS 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.
38
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Lights and Shapes
PART CLIGHTS 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.
39
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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 ves-
sel.
(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 com-
bined in one lantern carried on the fore and aft centerline of the ves-
sel.
(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 character-
istics 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 cen-
terline 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 com-
bined in one lantern carried on the fore and aft centerline of the ves-
sel, except that on a vessel of less than 12 meters in length the side-
lights 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 character-
istics 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 fre-
quency 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
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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;
(c) In vessels of less than 12 meters in length:

a sidelight, 1 mile;
(d) In inconspicuous, partly submerged vessels or objects being

towed:
a white all-round light, 3 miles.
42
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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 follow-
ing minimum ranges:
(a) In a vessel of 50 meters or more in length:
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;
(c) In a vessel of less than 12 meters in length:
a sidelight, 1 mile;
(d) In an inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object being towed:
a white all-round light, 3 miles.
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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
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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 underwayless than 50 meters in length.

Same for International.
45
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 23CONTINUED
(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
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 23CONTINUED
(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 where it can best be seen.
Air-cushion vessel when operating in the displacement mode

47
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 23CONTINUED
(c) (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 maxi-

mum speed does not exceed 7 knots.
48
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 23CONTINUED
(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.
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[BLANK]
50
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 23CONTINUED
(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
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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 asterntowing vessel less than

50 meters in length; length of tow exceeds 200 meters.
Same for Inland.
52
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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
Power-driven vessel towing asterntowing vessel less than

50 meters in length; length of tow 200 meters or less.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(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
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(b) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are
power-driven vessel and exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 23.
Composite unit underwayless than 50 meters in length.

55
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing along-

side, except in the case of a composite unit, shall exhibit:
(i) instead of the light prescribed in Rule 23(a)(i) or (a)(ii), two

masthead lights in a vertical line;
(ii) sidelights; and
(iii) a sternlight.
Power-driven vessel pushing ahead or towing alongsidetowing

56
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing along-

side, 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 alongsidetowing

57
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(d) A power-driven vessel to which paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule

apply shall also comply with Rule 23(a)(i).
Power-driven vessel towing asternlength 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
Vessel or object being towed-length of tow exceeds 200 meters. Same for Inland.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(d) 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 asternlength 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.
(e) 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
Vessel being towedlength of tow 200 meters or less. Same for International.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(f) 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 tow-
ing vessels a sternlight shall be exhibited on the stern of the out-
board 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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.
Vessel being towed alongside.
62
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
Vessel being pushed ahead, not being part of a composite unit.
Vessel being towed alongside.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(g) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object, or com-

bination of such vessels or objects being towed, shall exhibit:
(i) 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 for-
ward end;
(ii) if it is 25 meters or more in breadth, two additional all-round
white lights at or near the extremities of its breadth;
(iii) 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;
(iv) 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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(g) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object being

towed shall exhibit:
(i) if it is less than 25 meters in breadth, one all-round white light
at or near each end;
(ii) if it is 25 meters or more in breadth, four all-round white

lights to mark its length and breadth;
(iii) 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;
(iv) 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.
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RULE 24CONTINUED
(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
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
[BLANK]
68
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(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 push-
ing 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)
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RULE 24CONTINUED
(i) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel

not normally engaged in towing operations to display the lights pre-
scribed in paragraph (a) or (c) of this Rule, such vessel shall not be
required to exhibit those lights when engaged in towing another ves-
sel in distress or otherwise in need of assistance. All possible mea-
sures 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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 24CONTINUED
(j) Where from any sufficient cause it is impracticable for a vessel

not normally engaged in towing operations to display the lights pre-
scribed 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.
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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 pre-
scribed 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.
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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 pre-
scribed 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 underwayless than 20 meters in length.

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RULE 25CONTINUED
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in addition to the lights pre-

scribed 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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 25CONTINUED
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in addition to the lights pre-

scribed 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.
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RULE 25CONTINUED
(d) (i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 meters in length shall, if prac-
ticable, 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 underwayless than 7 meters in length. Same for

Inland.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 25CONTINUED
(d) (i) A sailing vessel of less than 7 meters in length shall, if prac-
ticable, 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.
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RULE 25CONTINUED
(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.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 25CONTINUED
(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.
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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 trawlingnot making way. Same for Inland.
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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 trawlingnot making way; vessel less than 50

meters in length. Same for International.
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RULE 26CONTINUED
Vessel engaged in trawlingmaking way; vessel less than

50 meters in length. Same for Inland.
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Lights and Shapes
RULE 26CONTINUED
Vessel engaged in trawlingmaking way. Same for International.
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RULE 26CONTINUED
(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 apex-
es 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;
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 trawlingmaking way.

Same for Inland.
84
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26CONTINUED
(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 apex-
es 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
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 trawlingnot making way.

85
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26CONTINUED
(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 ves-
sel of her length.
86
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 26CONTINUED
(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 commandnot 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
Vessel not under commandmaking way. Same for International.
89
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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 pre-
scribed in subparagraph (i);
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes pre-
scribed in subparagraphs (i) and (ii), the light, lights or shape
prescribed in Rule 30.
Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuvermaking way; vessel

less than 50 meters in length. Same for Inland.
90
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27Continued
(b) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, except a vessel
engaged in mineclearance operations, shall exhibit:
(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, side-
lights and a sternlight, in addition to the lights prescribed in sub-
paragraph (b)(i); and
(iv) when at anchor, in addition to the lights or shapes pre-
scribed in subparagraphs (b)(i) and (ii), the light, lights or
shapes prescribed in Rule 30.
Vessel restricted in her ability to maneuverat anchor; vessel less

than 50 meters in length. Same for International.
91
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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 27CONTINUED
(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 courselength
of tow does not exceed 200 meters; towing vessel less than
50 meters in length. Same for International.
93
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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 indi-
cate 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 para-
graph instead of the lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30.
Vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations when restrict-

ed in ability to maneuvermaking way with an obstruction on the
starboard side. Same for Inland.
94
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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 indi-
cate 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 para-
graph, instead of the lights or shapes prescribed in Rule 30 for
anchored vessels.
Vessel engaged in dredging or underwater operations when restrict-

ed in ability to maneuvernot making way with an obstruction on
the starboard side. Same for International.
95
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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:
(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 27CONTINUED
(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. The highest and lowest of these lights shall be red and the
middle light 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 27CONTINUED
(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 appro-
priate, 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 operationsvessel less than 50

meters in length. Same for Inland.
98
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 27CONTINUED
(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 appro-
priate, 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 27CONTINUED
(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 27CONTINUED
(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 pre-
scribed 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 pre-
scribed 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.
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 sub-
paragraph (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 dutyunderway. Same for Inland.
104
INLAND
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; and
(iii) when at anchor, in addition to the lights prescribed in sub-
paragraph (i), the anchor light, lights, or shape prescribed in
Rule 30 for anchored vessels.
(b) 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 dutyat 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 anchorless 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 30CONTINUED
(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 30CONTINUED
(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 agroundless than 50 meters in length.

109
INTERNATIONAL
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30CONTINUED
(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 subpara-
graphs (d)(i) and (ii) of this Rule.
110
INLAND
Lights and Shapes
RULE 30CONTINUED
(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 subpara-
graphs (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 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 charac-
teristics 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 charac-
teristics and position as is possible.
113
INTERNATIONAL
Sound and Light Signals
PART DSOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS

RULE 32
Definitions
(a) The word whistle means any sound signalling 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 seconds
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 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 lIl to these
Regulations. The bell or gong or both may be replaced by other
equipment having the same respective sound characteristics, provid-
ed 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 signalling 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 DSOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS

RULE 32
Definitions
(a) The word whistle means any sound signalling 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 seconds
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 sound-
ing 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 signalling 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 ves-
sel 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 para-
graph (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 flash-
es 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, syn-
chronized with the whistle, and shall comply with the provisions
of Annex I to these Rules.
117
INTERNATIONAL
RULE 34CONTINUED
(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 inten-
tions 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 hear-
ing 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 34CONTINUED
(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 inten-
tions 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 head-
on, 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 ves-
sel 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 ves-
sel 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 imme-
diately after the signal made by the towing vessel.
(f) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are
power-driven vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in para-
graphs (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 sig-
nals prescribed in paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule, sound at inter-
vals 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 ves-
sel 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 imme-
diately after the signal made by the towing vessel.
(e) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are
power-driven vessel and shall give the signals prescribed in para-
graphs (a) or (b) of this Rule.
121
INTERNATIONAL
RULE 35CONTINUED
(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 sound-
ed rapidly for about 5 seconds in the after part of the vessel. A ves-
sel at anchor may in addition sound three blasts in succession,
namely one short, one prolonged and one short blast, to give warn-
ing 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 addi-
tion, 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 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 min-
utes.
(j) 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 35CONTINUED
(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 sound-
ed rapidly for about 5 seconds in the after part of the vessel. A ves-
sel at anchor may in addition sound three blasts in succession;
namely, one short, one prolonged and one short blast, to give warn-
ing 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 addi-
tion, 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 min-
utes.
(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 sig-
nal 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 naviga-
tion. 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 sig-
nal 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
GUN
FOG HORN FIRED AT
RED STAR CONTINUOUS FLAMES ON INTERVALS OF
SHELLS SOUNDING A VESSEL 1 MIN.
SOS
ORANGE
BACKGROUND
BLACK BALL MAYDAY PARACHUTE
SOS BY RADIO
AND SQUARE RED FLARE
DYE CODE FLAGS

MARKER NOVEMBER SQUARE FLAG WAVE
(ANY COLOR) CHARLIE AND BALL ARMS
POSITION
RADIO- RADIO- INDICATING
TELEGRAPH TELEPHONE RADIO
ALARM ALARM BEACON SMOKE
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 fac-
ing 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 EEXEMPTIONS
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 cor-
responding 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, per-
manent exemption.
128
INLAND
Exemptions
PART EEXEMPTIONS
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 pre-
scribed in Annex I to these Rules, until 4 years after the effec-
tive 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 38CONTINUED
(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 pre-
scriptions 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
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.
(g) 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.
(h) The repositioning of all-round lights resulting from the prescrip-
tion of Section 9(b) of Annex I to these Regulations, permanent
exemption.
130
INLAND
Exemptions
RULE 38CONTINUED
(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 pre-

scriptions of Annex I to these Rules, until 9 years after the effec-
tive 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 upper-
most continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the posi-
tion 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 ves-
sels 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.
132
INLAND
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 upper-
most continuous deck. This height shall be measured from the posi-
tion 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
(meters 3 ).
(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 dis-
tance 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.
133
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
(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 gun-
wale. When, however, a masthead light is carried in addition to side-
lights 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 all-
round 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 after-
mast, the lowest after masthead light shall be at least 4.5 meters ver-
tically 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 pre-
scribed by Rule 27(b)(i) or Rule 28 below the masthead lights,
they may be carried above the after masthead light(s) or verti-
cally in between the forward masthead light(s) and after mast-
head 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 for-
ward 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
a height of not less than 2 meters above the gunwale;
(iii) when three lights are carried they shall be equally spaced.
134
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
(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 mast-
head light shall be at least 2 meters vertically higher than the highest
forward masthead light.
(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 obstruc-
tions except as described in paragraph (f)(2) of this section.
(2) When it is impracticable to carry the all-round lights pre-
scribed 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
a height 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
a height of not less than 2 meters above the gunwale;
(3) When three lights are carried they shall be equally spaced.
135
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
(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 horizon-
tal 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 shall be exhibited forward of amidships; except that a
vessel of less then 20 meters in length need not exhibit this light for-
ward of amidships but shall exhibit it as far forward as is practicable.
136
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
(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 hori-
zontal 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 ves-
sel of less than 20 meters in length, the vessel shall exhibit on mast-
head 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.
137
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ANNEX IContinued
4. Details of location of direction-indicating lights for fishing
vessels, dredgers and vessels engaged in underwater opera-
tions
(a) The light indicating the direction of the outlying gear from a ves-
sel 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 pre-
scribed in Rule 27(b)(i) and (ii).
138
INLAND
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 ves-
sel 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 pre-
scribed in Rule 27(b)(i) and (ii).
139
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ANNEX IContinued
5. Screens for sidelights
The sidelights of vessels of 20 meters or more in length shall be fit-
ted with inboard screens painted matt black, and meeting the require-
ments 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.
140
INLAND
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 con-
structed after July 31, 1983, the masthead light, or the all-round light
described in Rule 23(c) shall be screened to prevent direct illumina-
tion of the vessel forward of the operators 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.
141
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
7. Color specification of lights
The chromaticity of all navigation lights shall conform to the follow-
ing standards, which lie within the boundaries of the area of the dia-
gram 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.
142
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
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 incorpo-
rated 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 indicat-
ing 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.
143
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in the fol-
lowing table:
Range of visibility (luminous Luminous intensity of light
range) of light in nautical in candelas for K = 0.8
miles
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 intensi-
ties 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 sec-
tion 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.
144
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
(b) A selection of figures derived from the formula is given in Table
84.15(b).
Table 84.15(b)
Range of visibility (luminous Minimum
range) of light in nautical luminous intensity of light
miles in candelas tor 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 cut-
off 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 appart or less will appear as one light to the naked eye at a distance
of one nautical mile.
145
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
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
horizontal;
(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.
146
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
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
horizontal;
(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
horizontal;
(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 specifica-
tions 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.
147
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IContinued
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

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 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.
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.
148
INLAND
ANNEX IContinued
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

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 deter-
mined 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
INTERNATIONAL
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 trawl-
ing, whether using demersal or pelagic gear, may 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 may 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 fish-
ing 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 para-
graph (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 fish-
ing 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 funda-
mental and/or one or more higher frequencies, which lie within the
range 180-700 Hz ( + 1 percent) and which provide the sound pres-
sure levels specified in paragraph 1(c) below.
(b) Limits of fundamental frequencies

To ensure a wide variety of whistle characteristics, the fundamen-
tal 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 AWHISTLES
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 funda-
mental 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 fundamen-
tal 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
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IIIContinued
(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 percent) of not less than the
appropriate figure given in the table below.
1/3-octave band
level at 1
meter in dB Audibility
Length of vessel referred to range in
in meters 2x10-5 N/m2 nautical miles
200 or more . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143 2

75 but less than 200 . . . . . . . . . . 138 1.5
20 but less than 75 . . . . . . . . . . . 130 1
Less than 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 0.5
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 extreme-
ly 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.
154
INLAND
ANNEX IIIContinued
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
1/3-octave band
Fundamental For level at 1 Audibility
frequency measured meter in dB range in
Length of vessel range frequencies referred to nautical
in meters (Hz) (Hz) 2x10-5 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 for-
ward axis in conditions of still air on board a vessel having average back-
ground 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
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IIIContinued
(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 pres-
sure 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 pres-
sure level of the vessels own signal at listening posts shall not
exceed 110 dB(A) and so far as practicable should not exceed 100
dB(A).
156
INLAND
ANNEX IIIContinued
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 pres-
sure level of the vessels own signal at listening posts shall not
exceed 110 dB(A) and so far as practicable should not exceed 100
dB(A).
157
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IIIContinued
(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 recom-
mended that a combined whistle system be fitted so as to overcome
this reduction. For the purposes of the Rules a combined whistle sys-
tem 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
ANNEX IIIContinued
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 with-
in 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
ANNEX IIIContinued
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 dis-
tance 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, and shall be not less than 200 mm for vessels of 12 meters or
more but of less than 20 meters 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
ANNEX IIIContinued
86.15 Towing vessel whistles
A power-driven vessel normally engaged in pushing ahead or tow-
ing 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 BBell 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 per-
cent 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 CApproval
86.31 Approval [Reserved]
161
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IV
Distress Signals
1. The following signals, used or exhibited either together or sepa-

rately, 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-signalling 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 signalling
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;
(I) 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 sepa-
rately, 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-signalling 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 signalling
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;
(I) 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
INTERNATIONAL
ANNEX IVContinued
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 IVContinued
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 require-

ments when operating under bridges
A vessels navigation lights and shapes may be lowered if neces-
sary 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 ves-
sels 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 polit-
ical 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 sig-
nal must be located so that it does not interfere with the visibility of the
vessels 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 VContinued
(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.
(3) Barges moored in groups more than two barges wide or to a
maximum width of over 25 meters.
(4) 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 VContinued
(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 VContinued
88.15 Lights on dredge pipelines
Dredge pipelines that are floating or supported on trestles shall dis-
play 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
pipelines 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
INTERNATIONAL
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 com-
posite 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 COL-
REG 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 pub-
lic 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 com-
posite unit, they are regarded as a power-driven vessel and must
exhibit the lights prescribed in Rule 23. A composite unit is inter-
preted 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.
Sec.
80.515 Cape Henry, VA to
80.01 General basis and pur-
Cape Hatteras, NC
pose of demarcation lines.
80,520 Cape Hatteras, NC to
Cape Lookout, NC.
ATLANTIC COAST 80.525 Cape Lookout, NC to
FIRST DISTRICT Cape Fear, NC.
80.530 Cape Fear, NC to New
80.105 Calais, ME to River Inlet, NC.
Cape Small, ME.
80.110 Casco Bay, ME. SEVENTH DISTRICT
80.115 Portland Head, ME to
Cape Ann, MA. 80.703 Little River Inlet, SC to
80.120 Cape Ann, MA to Cape Romain, SC.
Marblehead Neck, MA. 80.707 Cape Romain, SC to
80.125 Marblehead Neck, MA to Sullivans Island, SC.
Nahant, MA. 80.710 Charleston Harbor, SC.
80.130 Boston Harbor entrance. 80.712 Morris Island, SC to
80.135 Hull, MA to Hilton Head Island, SC.
Race Point, MA. 80.715 Savannah River.
80.145 Race Point, MA to 80.717 Tybee Island, GA to
Watch Hill, Rl. St. Simons Island, GA.
80.150 Block Island, Rl. 80.720 St. Simons Island, GA to
80.155 Watch Hill, Rl to Amelia Island, FL.
Montauk Point, NY. 80.723 Amelia Island, FL to
80.160 Montauk Point, NY Cape Canaveral, FL.
to Atlantic Beach, NY. 80.727 Cape Canaveral, FL to
80.165 New York Harbor. Miami Beach, FL.
80.170 Sandy Hook, NJ to 80.730 Miami Harbor, FL.
Toms River, NJ. 80.735 Miami, FL to
Long Key, FL.
FIFTH DISTRICT
80.501 Toms River N.J. to PUERTO RICO AND
Cape May, NJ.
80.503 Delaware Bay.
VIRGIN ISLANDS
80.505 Cape Henlopen, DE to SEVENTH DISTRICT
Cape Charles, VA.
80.510 Chesapeake Bay 80.738 Puerto Rico and
Entrance, VA. Virgin Islands
176
GULF COAST PACIFIC COAST
SEVENTH DISTRICT ELEVENTH DISTRICT
Sec. Sec.
80.740 Long Key, FL to 80.1102 Santa Catalina Island,
Cape Sable, FL. CA.
80.745 Cape Sable, FL to 80.1104 San Diego Harbor, CA.
Cape Romano, FL. 80.1106 Mission Bay, CA.
80.748 Cape Romano, FL to 80.1108 Oceanside Harbor, CA.
Sanibel Island, FL. 80.1110 Dana Point Harbor, CA.
80.750 Sanibel Island, FL to 80.1112 Newport Bay, CA.
St. Petersburg, FL. 80.1114 San Pedro Bay-
80.753 St. Petersburg, FL to Anaheim Bay, CA.
Anclote, FL. 80.1116 Redondo Harbor, CA.
80.755 Anclote, FL to 80.1118 Marina Del Rey, CA.
the Suncoast Keys, FL. 80.1120 Port Hueneme, CA.
80.757 Suncoast Keys, FL to 80.1122 Channel Islands
Horseshoe Point, FL. Harbor, CA.
80.760 Horseshoe Point, FL to 80.1124 Ventura Marina, CA.
Rock Island, FL. 80.1126 Santa Barbara Harbor,
CA.
EIGHTH DISTRICT 80.1130 San Luis Obispo
80.805 Rock Island,FL to Cape Bay, CA.
San Blas, FL. 80.1132 Estero-Morro Bay, CA.
80.810 Cape San Blas, FL to 80.1134 Monterey Harbor, CA.
Perdido Bay, FL. 80.1136 Moss Landing Harbor,
80.815 Mobile Bay, AL to CA.
the Chandeleur Island, LA. 80.1138 Santa Cruz Harbor, CA.
80.825 Mississippi Passes, LA. 80.1140 Pillar Point Harbor, CA.
80.830 Mississippi Passes, LA to 80.1142 San Francisco Harbor,
Point Au Fer, LA. CA.
80.835 Point Au Fer, LA to 80.1144 Bodega and Tomales
Calcasieu Pass, LA. Bay, CA.
80.840 Sabine Pass, TX to 80.1146 Albion River, CA.
Galveston, TX. 80.1148 Noyo River, CA.
80.845 Galveston, TX to 80.1150 Arcato-Humboldt Bay,
Freeport, TX. CA.
80.850 Brazos River, TX to 80.1152 Crescent City Harbor,
the Rio Grande, TX. CA.
177
THIRTEENTH DISTRICT GENERAL
Sec.
80.1305 Chetco River, OR. 80.01 General basis and
80.1310 Rogue River, OR. purpose of demarcation lines.
80.1315 Coquille River, OR. (a) The regulations in this part
80.1320 Coos Bay, OR. establish the lines of demarca-
80.1325 Umpqua River, OR. tion delineating those waters
80.1330 Siuslaw River, OR. upon which mariners shall com-
80.1335 Alsea Bay, OR.
ply with the International
80.1340 Yaquina Bay, OR.
80.1345 Depoe Bay, OR.
Regulations for Preventing
80.1350 Netarts Bay, OR. Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72
80.1355 Tillamook Bay, OR. COLREGS) and those waters
80.1360 Nehalem River, OR. upon which mariners shall com-
80.1365 Columbia River Entrance, ply 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.
80.1390 Haro Strait and Strait
COLREGS Waters.
of Georgia.
80.1395 Puget Sound and
adjacent waters. ATLANTIC COAST
FIRST DISTRICT
PACIFIC ISLANDS
80.105 Calais, ME to Cape
FOURTEENTH DISTRICT Small, ME.
The 72 COLREGS shall apply
80.1410 Hawaiian Island Exemption
from General Rule. on the harbors, bays, and inlets
80.1420 Mamala Bay, Oahu, Hl. on the east coast of Maine from
80.1430 Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hl. International Bridge at Calais,
80.1440 Port Allen, Kauai, HI. ME to the southwesternmost
80.1450 Nawiliwili Harbor, extremity of Bald Head at Cape
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
Possessions. southeasternmost extremity of
Ragged Island; thence to the
southern tangent of Jaquish
ALASKA Island thence to Little Mark
SEVENTEENTH DISTRICT Island Monument Light; thence
to the northernmost extremity of
80.1705 Alaska. Jewell Island.
178
(b) A line drawn from the tower (b) A line drawn from
on Jewell Island charted in Gloucester Harbor Breakwater
approximate position latitude 43 Light to the twin towers charted
40.6 N. longitude 70 05.9 W. to in approximate position latitude
the northeasternmost extremity 4235.1 N. longitude 7041.6W.
of Outer Green Island. (c) A line drawn from the west-
(c) A line drawn from the ernmost extremity of Gales Point
southwesternmost extremity of to the easternmost extremity of
Outer Green Island to Ram House Island; thence to Bakers
Island Ledge Light; thence to Island Light; thence to Marble-
Portland Head Light. head Light.
80.115 Portland Head, ME 80.125 Marblehead Neck,

to Cape Ann, MA. MA to Nahant, MA.
(a) Except inside lines specifi- The 72 COLREGS apply on
cally described in this section, the harbors, bays, and inlets on
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on the east coast of Massachusetts
the harbors, bays, and inlets on from Marblehead Neck to the
the east coast of Maine, New easternmost tower at Nahant,
Hampshire, and Massachusetts charted in approximate position
from Portland Head to Halibut latitude 4225.4 N., longitude
Point at Cape Ann. 7054.6 W.
(b) A line drawn from the
southernmost tower on Gerrish 80.130 Boston Harbor
Island charted in approximate entrance.
position latitude 4304.0 N. lon- A line drawn from the eastern-
gitude 7041.2 W. to Whale- most tower at Nahant, charted in
back Light; thence to Jeffrey approximate position latitude 42
Point Light 2A; thence to the 25.4 N., longitude 7054.6 W., to
northeasternmost extremity of Boston Lighted Horn Buoy B;
Frost Point. thence to the easternmost radio
(c) A line drawn from the north- tower at Hull, charted in approxi-
ernmost extremity of Farm Point mate position latitude 4216.7
to Annisquam Harbor Light. N., longitude 7052.6 W.
80.120 Cape Ann, MA to 80.135 Hull, MA to Race

Marblehead Neck, MA. Point, MA.
(a) Except inside lines specifi- (a) Except inside lines
cally described in this section, described in this section, the 72
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on COLREGS apply on the harbors,
the harbors, bays and inlets on bays, and inlets on the east
the east coast of Massachusetts coast of Massachusetts from the
from Halibut Point at Cape Ann easternmost radio tower at Hull,
to Marblehead Neck. charted in approximate position
179
latitude 4216.7 N., longitude 80.150 Block Island, Rl.
7052.6 W., to Race Point on The 72 COLREGS shall apply
Cape Cod. on the harbors of Block Island.
(b) A line drawn from Canal
Breakwater Light 4 south to the 80.155 Watch Hill, Rl to
shoreline. Montauk Point, NY.
(a) A line drawn from Watch
80.145 Race Point, MA to Hill Light to East Point on
Watch Hill, Rl. Fishers Island.
(a) Except inside lines specifi- (b) A line drawn from Race
cally described in this section, Point to Race Rock Light; thence
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on to Little Gull Island Light thence
the sounds, bays, harbors and to East Point on Plum Island.
inlets along the coast of Cape (c) A line drawn from Plum
Cod and the southern coasts of Island Harbor East Dolphin Light
Massachusetts and Rhode to Plum Island Harbor West
Island from Race Point to Watch Dolphin Light.
Hill.
(d) A line drawn from Plum
(b) A line drawn from Nobska
Island Light to Orient Point Light;
Point Light to Tarpaulin Cove Light
thence to Orient Point.
on the southeastern side of
(e) A line drawn from the light-
Naushon Island; thence from the
house ruins at the southwestern
southernmost tangent of Naushon
end of Long Beach Point to
Island to the easternmost extrem-
Cornelius Point.
ity of Nashawena Island; thence
from the southwestern most (f) A line drawn from Coec!es
extremity of Nashawena Island to Harbor Entrance Light to Sungic
the easternmost extremity of Point.
Cuttyhunk Island; thence from the (g) A line drawn from Nicoll
southwestern tangent of Cuttyhunk Point to Cedar Island Light.
(h) A line drawn from
Island to the tower on Gooseberry
Threemile Harbor West Break-
Neck charted in approximate posi-
water Light to Three Mile Harbor
tion latitude 4129.1 N. longitude
East Breakwater Light.
7102.3 W.
(i) A line drawn from Montauk
(c) A line drawn from Sakonnet
West Jetty Light 1 to Montauk
Breakwater Light 2 tangent to
East Jetty Light 2.
the southernmost part of
Sachuest Point charted in
approximate position latitude 41 80.160 Montauk Point, NY
28.5 N. longitude 7114.8 W. to Atlantic Beach, NY.
(d) An east-west line drawn (a) A line drawn from
through Beavertail Light Shinnecock Inlet East Break-
between Brenton Point and the water Light to Shinnecock Inlet
Boston Neck shoreline. West Breakwater Light 1.
180
(b) A line drawn from Moriches (b) A line drawn from the seaward
Inlet East Breakwater Light to tangent of Pullen Island to the sea-
Moriches Inlet West Breakwater ward tangent of Brigantine Island
Light. across Brigantine Inlet.
(c) A line drawn from Fire (c) A line drawn from the sea-
Island Inlet Breakwater Light ward extremity of Absecon Inlet
348 true to the southernmost North Jetty to Atlantic City Light.
extremity of the spit of land at the
(d) A line drawn from the
western end of Oak Beach.
(d) A line drawn from Jones southernmost point of Longport
Inlet Light 322 true across the at latitude 3918.2 N. Iongitude
southwest tangent of the island 7433.1W. to the northeastern-
on the north side of Jones Inlet most point of Ocean City at lati-
to the shoreline. tude 3917.6 N. longitude 74
33.1 W. across Great Egg
80.165 New York Harbor. Harbor Inlet.
A line drawn from East (e) A line drawn parallel with
Rockaway Inlet Breakwater Light the general trend of highwater
to Sandy Hook Light. shoreline across Corson Inlet.
80.170 Sandy Hook, NJ to (f) A line formed by the center-
Toms River, NJ. line of the Townsend Inlet
(a) A line drawn from Shark Highway Bridge.
River Inlet North Breakwater (g) A line formed by the shore-
Light 2 to Shark River Inlet South line of Seven Mile Beach and
Breakwater Light 1. Hereford Inlet Light.
(b) A line drawn from Manasquan (h) A line drawn from Cape
Inlet North Breakwater Light 4 to May Inlet East Jetty Light to
Manasquan Inlet South Breakwater Cape May Inlet West Jetty Light.
Light 3.
(c) A line drawn from Barnegat 80.503 Delaware Bay.
Inlet North Breakwater Light 4A A line drawn from Cape May
to the seaward extremity of the Light to Harbor of Refuge Light;
submerged Barnegat Inlet South thence to the northernmost
Breakwater; thence along the extremity of Cape Henlopen.
submerged breakwater to the
shoreline. 80.505 Cape Henlopen, DE
to Cape Charles, VA.
FIFTH DISTRICT
(a) A line drawn from the sea-
80.501 Toms River, NJ to ward extremity of Indian River
Cape May, NJ. Inlet North Jetty to Indian River
(a) A line drawn from the sea- Inlet South Jetty Light.
ward tangent of Long Beach (b) A line drawn from Ocean
Island to the seaward tangent to City Inlet Light 6 225 true
Pullen Island across Beach across Ocean City Inlet to the
Haven and Little Egg Inlets. submerged south breakwater.
181
(c) A line drawn from 80.520 Cape Hatteras, NC to
Assateague Beach Tower Light Cape Lookout, NC.
to the tower charted at latitude (a) A line drawn from Hatteras
3752.6 N. longitude 7526.7 W. Inlet Lookout Tower at latitude
(d) A line formed by the range of 3511.8 N 7544.9 W 255 true
Wachapreague Inlet Light 3 and to the eastern end of Ocracoke
Parramore Beach Lookout Tower Island.
drawn across Wachapreague Inlet. (b) A line drawn from the west-
(e) A line drawn from the look- ernmost extremity of Ocracoke
Island at latitude 35 04.0 N. lon-
out tower charted on the north-
gitude 7600.8 W. to the north-
ern end of Hog Island to the sea-
eastern extremity of Portsmouth
ward tangent of Parramore
Island at latitude 3503.7 N. longi-
Beach. tude 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
southern end of Hog Island trend of the highwater shoreline.
across Great Machipongo Inlet.
(g) A line formed by the range 80.525 Cape Lookout, NC
of the two cupolas charted on to Cape Fear, NC.
the southern end of Cobb Island (a) A line drawn from Cape
drawn across Sand Shoal Inlet. Lookout Light to the seaward
(h) Except as provided else- tangent of the southeastern end
where in this section from Cape of Shackleford Banks.
Henlopen to Cape Charles, lines (b) A line drawn from
drawn parallel with the general Morehead City Channel Range
trend of the highwater shoreline Front Light to the seaward
across the entrances to small extremity of the Beaufort Inlet
bays and inlets. west jetty.
(c) A line drawn from the south-
ernmost extremity of Bogue
80.510 Chesapeake Bay
Banks at latitude 3438.7 N. lon-
Entrance, VA.
gitude 7706.0 W. across Bogue
A line drawn from Cape Charles
Inlet to the northernmost extrem-
Light to Cape Henry Light. ity of Bear Beach at latitude 34
38.5 N. longitude 7707.1 W.
80.515 Cape Henry, VA to (d) A line drawn from the tower
Cape Hatteras, NC. charted in approximate position
(a) A line drawn from Rudee latitude 3431.5 N. longitude 77
Inlet Jetty Light 2 to Rudee Inlet 208 W. to the seaward tangent
Jetty Light 1. of the shoreline on the northeast
(b) A line formed by the center- side of New River Inlet.
line of the highway bridge across (e) A line drawn across New
Oregon Inlet. Topsail Inlet between the closest
182
extremities of the shore on either (b) From Little River Inlet, a
side of the inlet from latitude 34 line drawn parallel with the gen-
20.8 N. longitude 7739.2 W. to eral trend of the highwater
latitude 3420.6 N. longitude 77 shoreline across Hog Inlet;
39.6 W. thence a line drawn from Murrels
(f) A line drawn from the sea- Inlet Light 2 to Murrels Inlet Light
ward extremity of the jetty on the 1; thence a line drawn parallel
northeast side of Masonboro with the general trend of the
Inlet to the seaward extremity of highwater shoreline across
the jetty on the southeast side of Midway Inlet, Pawleys Inlet and
the Inlet. North Inlet.
(g) Except as provided else- (c) A line drawn from the chart-
where in this section from Cape ed position of Winyah Bay North
Lookout to Cape Fear, lines Jetty End Buoy 2N south to the
drawn parallel with the general Winyah Bay South Jetty.
trend of the highwater shoreline (d) A line drawn from Santee
across the entrance of small Point to the seaward tangent of
bays and inlets. Cedar Island.
(e) A line drawn from Cedar
80.530 Cape Fear, NC to Island Point west to Murphy
Little River Inlet, NC. Island.
(a) A line drawn from the aban- (f) A north-south line (longitude
doned lighthouse charted in 7920.3 W.) drawn from Murphy
approximate position latitude 33 Island to the northernmost
52.4N. longitude 7800.1W. extremity of Cape Island Point.
across the Cape Fear River
Entrance to Oak Island Light. 80.707 Cape Romain, SC to
(b) Except as provided else- Sullivans Island, SC.
where in this section from Cape (a) A line drawn from the west-
Fear to Little River Inlet, lines ern extremity of Cape Romain
drawn parallel with the general 292 true to Racoon Key on the
trend of the highwater shoreline west side of Racoon Creek.
across the entrance to small (b) A line drawn from the west-
inlets. ernmost extremity of Sandy
Point across Bull Bay to the
northernmost extremity of North-
SEVENTH DISTRICT
east Point.
80.703 Little River Inlet, SC (c) A line drawn from the
to Cape Romain, SC. southernmost extremity of Bull
(a) A line drawn from the west- Island to the easternmost
ernmost extremity of the sand extremity of Capers Island.
spit on Bird Island to the east- (d) A line formed by the over-
ernmost extremity of Waties head power cable from Capers
Island across Little River Inlet. Island to Dewees Island.
183
(e) A line formed by the over- Edisto Beach charted in approxi-
head power cable from Dewees mate position latitude 3229.3
Island to Isle of Palms. N. longitude 8019.2 W. across
(f) A line formed by the center- St. Helena Sound to the aban-
line of the highway bridge be- doned lighthouse tower on
tween Isle of Palms and Sullivans Hunting Island.
Island over Breach Inlet. (e) A line formed by the center-
line of the highway bridge
80.710 Charleston Harbor, between Hunting Island and
SC. Fripp Island.
(a) A line formed by the sub- (f) A line drawn from the west-
merged north jetty from the ernmost extremity of Bull Point
shore to the west end of the on Capers Island to Port Royal
north jetty. Sound Channel Range Rear
(b) A line drawn from across
Light, latitude 3213.7 N. longi-
the seaward extremity of the
tude 8036.0 W.; thence 259
Charleston Harbor Jetties.
true to the easternmost extremi-
(c) A line drawn from the west
end of the South Jetty across the ty of Hilton Head at latitude
South Entrance to Charleston 3213.7 N. longitude 8040.1 W.
Harbor to shore on a line formed
by the submerged south jetty. 80.715 Savannah River.
A line drawn from the south-
ernmost tank on Hilton Head
80.712 Morris Island, SC to
Island charted in approximate
Hilton Head Island, SC.
position latitude 3206.7 N . lon-
(a) A line drawn from the east-
gitude 8049.3 W. to Bloody
ernmost tip of Folly Island to the
abandoned lighthouse tower on Point Range Rear Light; thence
the northside of Lighthouse Inlet; to Tybee (Range Rear) Light.
thence west to the shoreline of
Morris Island. 80.717 Tybee Island, GA to
(b) A straight line drawn from St. Simons Island, GA.
the seaward tangent of Folly (a) A line drawn from the
Island through Folly River southernmost extremity of
Daybeacon 10 across Stono Savannah Beach on Tybee
River to the shoreline of Sandy Island 255 true across Tybee
Point. Inlet to the shore of Little Tybee
(c) A line drawn from the south- Island south of the entrance to
ernmost extremity of Seabrook Buck Hammock Creek.
Island 257 true across the North (b) A straight line drawn from the
Edisto River Entrance to the northeasternmost extremity of
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 shore of Little Tybee Island.
184
(c) A line drawn approximately tude 3105.9 N. Iongitude 81
parallel with the general trend of 24.5 W.
the highwater shorelines from (b) A line drawn from the
the seaward tangent of Wassau southernmost tank on Jekyll
Island to the seaward tangent of Island charted in approximate
Bradley Point on Ossabaw position latitude 3101.6 N.
Island. Iongitude 8125.2 W. to coordi-
(d) A north-south line (longitude nate latitude 3059.4N.
8108.4W.) drawn from the south- Iongitude 8123.7 W. (0.5 nauti-
ernmost extremity of Ossabaw cal mile east of the charted posi-
Island to St. Catherines Island. tion of St. Andrew Sound Lighted
(e) A north-south line (longi- Buoy 32); thence to the aban-
tude 8110.6 W.) drawn from the doned lighthouse tower on the
southernmost extremity of St. north end of Little Cumberland
Catherines Island to North-east Island charted in approximate
Point on Blackbeard Island. position latitude 3058.5N.
Iongitude 8124.8 W.
(f) A line following the general
trend of the seaward highwater (c) A line drawn across the
shoreline across Cabretta Inlet. seaward extremity of the St.
(g) A north-south line (longi- Marys Entrance Jetties.
tude 8116.9 W.) drawn from the
southwesternmost point on 80.723 Amelia Island, FL to
Sapelo Island to Wolf Island. Cape Canaveral, FL.
(h) A north-south line (longi- (a) A line drawn from the south-
tude 8117.1 W.) drawn from the ernmost extremity of Amelia Island
southeasternmost point of Wolf to the northeasternmost extremity
Island to the northeasternmost of Little Talbot Island.
point on Little St. Simons Island. (b) A line formed by the center-
(i) A line drawn from the north- line of the highway bridge from
easternmost extremity of Sea Little Talbot Island to Fort
Island 045 true to Little St. George Island.
Simons Island. (c) A line drawn across the
(j) An east-west line from the seaward extremity of the St.
southernmost extremity of Sea Johns River Entrance Jetties.
Island across Goulds Inlet to St. (d) A line drawn across the
Simons Island. seaward extremity of the St.
Augustine Inlet Jetties.
80.720 St. Simons Island, (e) A line formed by the center-
GA to Amelia Island, FL. line of the highway bridge over
(a) A line drawn from St. Matanzas Inlet.
Simons Light to the northern- (f) A line drawn across the sea-
most tank on Jekyll Island chart- ward extremity of the Ponce de
ed in approximate position lati- Leon Inlet Jetties.
185
80.727 Cape Canaveral, FL 80.735 Miami, FL to Long
to Miami Beach, FL. Key, FL.
(a) A line drawn across the sea- (a) A line drawn from the
ward extremity of the Port Cana- southernmost extremity of Fisher
veral Entrance Channel Jetties. Island 212 true to the point lati-
(b) A line drawn across the tude 2545.0 N. longitude 80
seaward extremity of the 08.6 W. on Virginia Key.
Sebastian Inlet Jetties. (b) A line formed by the center-
(c) A line drawn across the line of the highway bridge
seaward extremity of the Fort between Virginia Key and Key
Pierce Inlet Jetties. Biscayne.
(d) A north-south line (longi- (c) A line drawn from Cape
tude 80 09.7 W.) drawn across Florida Light to the northern
St. Lucie Inlet. most extremity on Soldier Key.
(e) A line drawn from the sea- (d) A line drawn from the
ward extremity of Jupiter Inlet southernmost extremity on
North Jetty to the northeast Soldier Key to the northernmost
extremity of the concrete apron extremity of the Ragged Keys.
on the south side of Jupiter inlet. (e) A line drawn from the Rag-
(f) A line drawn across the sea- ged Keys to the southernmost
ward extremity of the Lake Worth extremity of Angelfish Key fol-
Inlet Jetties. lowing the general trend of the
(g) A line drawn across the seaward shoreline.
seaward extremity of the (f) A line drawn on the center-
Boynton Inlet Jetties. line of the Overseas Highway
(h) A line drawn from Boca (U.S. 1) and bridges from lati-
Raton Inlet North Jetty Light 2 to tude 2519.3 N. longitude 80
Boca Raton Inlet South Jetty 16.0 W. at Little Angelfish Creek
Light 1. to the radar dome charted on
(i) A line drawn from Hillsboro Long Key at approximate posi-
Inlet Light to Hillsboro Inlet tion latitude 2449.3 N. longi-
Entrance Light 2; thence to tude 8049.2 W.
Hillsboro Inlet Entrance Light 1;
thence west to the shoreline.
(j) A line drawn across the sea-
ward extremity of the Port PUERTO RICO AND
Everglades Entrance Jetties. VIRGIN ISLANDS
(k) A line formed by the center-
line of the highway bridge over SEVENTH
Bakers Haulover Inlet. DISTRICT
80.738 Puerto Rico and
80.730 Miami Harbor, FL. Virgin Islands.
A line drawn across the sea- (a) Except inside lines specifi-
ward extremity of the Miami cally described in this section,
Harbor Government Cut Jetties. the 72 COLREGS shall apply on
186
all other bays, harbors and (b) The 72 COLREGS shall
lagoons of Puerto Rico and the apply to the waters surrounding
U.S. Virgin Islands. the Ten Thousand Islands and
(b) A line drawn from Puerto the bays, creeks, inlets, and
San Juan Light to Cabras Light rivers between Chatham Bend
across the entrance of San Juan and Marco Island except inside
Harbor. lines specifically described in
this part.
(c) A north-south line drawn at
GULF COAST longitude 8120.2 W. across the
entrance to Lopez River.
SEVENTH DISTRICT (d) A line drawn across the
80.740 Long Key, FL to entrance to Turner River parallel
Cape Sable, FL. to the general trend of the shore-
A line drawn from the micro- line.
(e) A line formed by the center-
wave tower charted on Long Key
line of Highway 92 Bridge at
at approximate position latitude
Goodland.
24 48.8 N. longitude 80 49.6
W. to Long Key Light 1; thence to
80.748 Cape Romano, FL
Arsenic Bank Light 2; thence to
to Sanibel Island, FL.
Sprigger Bank Light 5; thence to (a) A line drawn across Big
Schooner Bank Light 6; thence Marco Pass parallel to the gen-
to Oxfoot Bank Light 10; thence eral trend of the seaward, high-
to East Cape Light 2; thence water shoreline.
through East Cape Daybeacon (b) A line drawn from the north-
1A to the shoreline at East Cape. westernmost extremity of Coco-
nut Island 000T across Capri
80.745 Cape Sable, FL to Pass.
Cape Romano, FL. (c) Lines drawn across Hurri-
(a) A line drawn following the cane and Little Marco Passes
general trend of the mainland, parallel to the general trend of
highwater shoreline from Cape the seaward, highwater shore-
Sable at East Cape to Little line.
Shark River Light 1; thence to (d) A line from the seaward
westernmost extremity of Shark extremity of Gordon Pass South
Point; thence following the gen- Jetty 014 true to the shoreline at
eral trend of the mainland, high- approximate coordinate latitude
water shoreline crossing the 2605.7 N. Iongitude 8148.1
entrances of Harney River, W.
Broad Creek, Broad River, Rod- (e) A line drawn across the
gers River First Bay, Chatham seaward extremity of Doctors
River, Huston River, to the Pass Jetties.
shoreline at coordinate latitude (f) Lines drawn across
2541.8 N. longitude 8117.9 W. Wiggins, Big Hickory, New, and
187
Big Carlos Passes parallel to the Point to the southeasternmost
general trend of the seaward extremity of Egmont Key.
highwater shoreland. (j) A straight line drawn from
(g) A straight line drawn from Egmont Key Light through
Sanibel Island Light through Egmont Channel Range Rear
Matanzas Pass Channel Light 2 Light to the shoreline on Mullet
to the shore of Estero Island. Key.
(k) A line drawn from the north-
80.750 Sanibel Island, FL ernmost extremity of Mullet Key
to St. Petersburg, FL. across Bunces Pass and South
(a) A line formed by the center- Channel to Pass-a-Grille Chan-
line of the highway bridge over nel Light 8; thence to Pass-a-
Blind Pass, between Captiva Grille Channel Daybeacon 9;
Island and Sanibel Island, and thence to the southwesternmost
lines drawn across Redfish and extremity of Long Key.
Captiva Passes parallel to the
80.753 St. Petersburg, FL
general trend of the seaward,
to the Anclote, FL.
highwater shorelines.
(a) A line drawn across Blind
(b) A line drawn from La Costa
Pass, between Treasure Island
Test Pile North Light to Port
and Long Key, parallel with the
Boca Grande Light.
general trend of the seaward,
(c) Lines drawn across
highwater shoreline.
Gasparilla and Stump Passes
(b) Lines formed by the center-
parallel to the general trend of
line of the highway bridges over
the seaward, highwater shore- Johns and Clearwater Passes.
lines. (c) A line drawn across
(d) A line across the seaward Dunedin and Hurricane Passes
extremity of Venice Inlet Jetties. parallel with the general trend of
(e) A line drawn across the seaward, highwater shore-
Midnight Pass parallel to the line.
general trend of the seaward, (d) A line drawn from the north-
highwater shoreline. ernmost extremity of Honey-
(f) A line drawn from Big moon Island to Anclote
Sarasota Pass Light 14 to the Anchorage South Entrance Light
southernmost extremity of Lido 7; thence to Anclote Key 28
Key. 10.0 N 8250.6 W; thence a
(g) A line drawn across New straight line through Anclote
Pass tangent to the seaward, high- River Cut B Range Rear Light to
water shoreline of Longboat Key. the shoreline.
(h) A line drawn across
Longboat Pass parallel to the 80.755 Anclote, FL to the
seaward, highwater shoreline. Suncoast Keys, FL.
(i) A line drawn from the north- (a) Except inside lines specifi-
westernmost extremity of Bean cally described in this section,
188
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on 80.760 Horseshoe Point,
the bays, bayous, creeks, mari- FL to Rock Islands, FL.
nas, and rivers from Anclote to (a) Except inside lines specifi-
the Suncoast Kevs. cally described provided in this
(b) A north-south line drawn at section, the 72 COLREGS shall
longitude 8238.3 W. across the apply on the bays, bayous,
Chassahowitzka River Entrance. creeks, marinas, and rivers from
Horseshoe Point to the Rock
80.757 Suncoast Keys, FL Islands.
to Horseshoe Point, FL. (b) A north-south line drawn
(a) Except inside lines specifi- through Steinhatchee River Light
cally described in this section, 21.
the 72 COLREGS shall apply on (c) A line drawn from Fenhol-
the bays, bayous, creeks, and loway River Approach Light FR
marinas from the Suncoast Keys east across the entrance to
to Horseshoe Point. Fenholloway River.
(b) A line formed by the center- EIGHTH DISTRICT

line of Highway 44 Bridge over
the Salt River. 80.805 Rock Island, FL to
(c) A north-south line drawn Cape San Blas, FL.
through Crystal River Entrance (a) A north-south line drawn
Daybeacon 25 across the river from the Econfina River Light to
entrance. the opposite shore.
(d) A north-south line drawn (b) A line drawn from Gamble
through the Cross Florida Barge Point Light to the southernmost
Canal Daybeacon 48 across the extremity of Cabell Point.
canal. (c) A line drawn from St. Marks
(e) A north-south line drawn (Range Rear) Light to St. Marks
through Withlacoochee River Channel Light 11; thence to the
Daybeacon 40 across the river. southernmost extremity of Live
(f) A line drawn from the west- Oak Point; thence in a straight
ernmost extremity of South Point line through Shell Point Light to
north to the shoreline across the the southernmost extremity of
Waccasassa River Entrance. Ochlockonee Point; thence to
(g) A line drawn from position Bald Point along longitude 84
latitude 2916.6 N. longitude 20.5 W.
8306.7 W. 300 true to the (d) A line drawn from the south
shoreline of Hog Island. shore of Southwest Cape at lon-
(h) A north-south line drawn gitude 8422.7 W. to Dog Island
through Suwannee River Reef East Light 1; thence to
Wadley Pass Channel Daybea- Turkey Point Light 2; thence to
cons 30 and 31 across the the easternmost extremity of
Suwannee River. Dog Island.
189
(e) A line drawn from the west- across the Pensacola Bay
ernmost extremity of Dog Island Entrance along latitude 3019.5
to the easternmost extremity of N.
St. George Island. (h) A line drawn between the
(f) A line drawn across the sea- seaward end of the Perdido
ward extremity of the St. George Pass Jetties.
Island Channel Jetties.
(g) A line drawn from the north- 80.815 Mobile Bay, AL to
westernmost extremity of Sand the Chandeleur Islands, LA.
Island to West Pass Light 7. (a) A line drawn across the in
(h) A line drawn from the west- lets to Little Lagoon as an exten-
ernmost extremity of St. Vincent sion of the general trend of the
Island to the southeast, highwa- shoreline.
ter shoreline of Indian Peninsula (b) A line drawn from Mobile
at longitude 8513.5 W. Point Light to Dauphin Island
Channel Light No. 1 to the east-
80.810 Cape San Blas, FL ern corner of Fort Gaines at
to Perdido Bay, FL. Pelican Point.
(a) A line drawn from St. (c) A line drawn from the west-
Joseph Bay Entrance Range A ernmost extremity of Dauphin
Rear Light through St. Joseph Island to the easternmost
Bay Entrance Range B Front extremity of Petit Bois Island.
Light to St. Joseph Point. (d) A line drawn from Horn
(b) A line drawn across the Island Pass Entrance Range
mouth of Salt Creek as an exten- Front Light on Petit Bois Island
sion of the general trend of the to the easternmost extremity of
shoreline to continue across the
Horn Island.
inlet to St. Andrews Sound in the
(e) A east-west line (latitude
middle of Crooked Island.
3014.7 N.) drawn between the
(c) A line drawn from the north-
ernmost extremity of Crooked westernmost extremity of Horn
Island 000T. to the mainland. Island to the easternmost ex-
(d) A line drawn from the east- tremity of Ship Island.
ernmost extremity of Shell Island (f) A curved line drawn follow-
120 true to the shoreline across ing the general trend of the sea-
the east entrance to St. Andrews ward, highwater shoreline of
Bay. Ship Island.
(e) A line drawn between the (g) A line drawn from Ship
seaward end of the St. Andrews Island Light to Chandeleur Light;
Bay Entrance Jetties. thence in a curved line following
(f) A line drawn between the the general trend of the sea-
seaward end of the Chocta- ward, highwater shorelines of
watchee Bay Entrance Jetties. the Chandeleur Islands to the
(g) A east-west line drawn from island at latitude 2944.1 N. lon-
Fort McRee Leading Light gitude 8853.0 W.; thence to
190
latitude 2926.5N. longitude 88 highwater shoreline in a north-
55.6W. westerly direction to coordinate
latitude 2903.4N. longitude
80.825 Mississippi Passes, 8913.0W.; thence west to coor-
LA. dinate latitude 2903.5N., longi-
(a) A line drawn from latitude tude 8915.5W., thence following
2926.5N., longitude 8855.6W. the general trend of the seaward,
to latidude 2910.6N., longitude highwater shoreline in a south-
8859.8W.; thence to latitude westerly direction to Mississippi
2903.5N., longitude 8903.7 River Southwest Pass Entrance
W.; thence to latitude 2858.8N., Light.
longitude 8904.3W. (e) A line drawn from Mississippi
(b) A line drawn from latitude River Southwest Pass Entrance
2858.8N., longitude 8904.3W.; Light; thence to the seaward
to latitude 2857.3N., longitude extremity of the Southwest Pass
8905.3W.; thence to latitude West Jetty located at coordinate
2856.95N., longitude 8905.6W.; latitude 2854.5N. Iong itude
thence to latitude 2900.4N., lon- 8926.1W.
gitude 8909.8W.; thence follow-
ing the general trend of the sea- 80.830 Mississippi Passes,
ward highwater shoreline in a LA to Point Au Fer, LA.
northwesterly direction to latitude (a) A line drawn from the sea-
2903.4N., longitude 8913.0W.; ward extremity of the Southwest
Pass West Jetty located at coor-
thence west to latitude 2903.5N.,
dinate latitude 2854.5N. longi-
longitude 8915.5W.; thence fol-
tude 8926.1W.; thence follow-
lowing the general trend of the
ing the general trend of the sea-
seaward high water shoreline in
ward, highwater jetty and shore-
a southwesterly direction to lati- line in a north, northeasterly
tude 2857.7N., longitude 89 direction to Old Tower latitude
22.3W. 2858.8N. longitude 8923.3W.;
(c) A line drawn from latitude thence to West Bay Light;
2857.7N., longitude 8922.3W.; thence to coordinate latitude
to latitude 2851.4N., longitude 2905.2N. longitude 8924.3W.;
8924.5W.; thence to latitude thence a curved line following
2852.65N., longitude 8927.1 the general trend of the highwa-
W.; thence to the seaward ter shoreline to Point Au Fer
extremity of the Southwest Pass Island except as otherwise
West Jetty located at latitude described in this section.
2854.5N., longitude 8926.1W. (b) A line drawn across the
(d) A line drawn from Mississippi seaward extremity of the Empire
River South Pass East Jetty Light Waterway (Bayou Fontanelle)
4 to Mississippi River South Pass entrance jetties.
West Jetty Light; thence following (c) An east-west line drawn
the general trend of the seaward from the westernmost extremity
191
of Grand Terre Islands in the (c) A line drawn on an axis of
direction of 194 true to the 140 true through Southwest
Grand Isle Fishing Jetty Light. Pass Vermillion Bay Light 4
(d) A line drawn between the across Southwest Pass.
seaward extremity of the Belle (d) A line drawn across the
Pass Jetties. seaward extremity of the Fresh-
(e) A line drawn from the west- water Bayou Canal Entrance
ernmost extremity of the Tim- Jetties.
balier Island to the easternmost (e) A line drawn from
extremity of Isles Dernieres. Mermentau Channel East Jetty
(f) A north-south line drawn Light 6 to Mermentau Channel
from Caillou Bay Light 13 across West Jetty Light 7.
Caillou Boca. (f) A line drawn from the radio
(g) A line drawn 107 true from tower charted in approximate
Caillou Bay Boat Landing Light position latitude 2945.7N. lon-
across the entrances to Grand gitude 9306.3W. 115 true
Bayou du Large and Bayou Grand across Mermentau Pass.
Caillou.
(g) A line drawn across the
(h) A line drawn on an axis of
seaward extremity of the Cal-
103 true through Taylors Bayou
casieu Pass Jetties.
Entrance Light 2 across the
entrances to Jack Stout Bayou,
Taylors Bayou, Pelican Pass, and 80.840 Sabine Pass, TX to
Bayou de West. Galveston, TX.
(a) A line drawn from the
Sabine Pass East Jetty Light to
80.835 Point Au Fer, LA to
the seaward end of the Sabine
Calcasieu Pass, LA.
(a) A line drawn from Point Au Pass West Jetty.
Fer to Atchafalaya Channel Light (b) A line drawn across the
34; thence to Point Au Fer Reef small boat passes through the
Light 33; thence to Atchafalaya Sabine Pass East and West
Bay Pipeline Light D latitude Jetties.
2925.0N. longitude 9131.7W.; (c) A line formed by the center-
thence to Atchafalaya Bay Light line of the highway bridge over
1 latitude 2925.3N. longitude Rollover Pass at Gilchrist.
9135.8W.; thence to South
Point. 80.845 Galveston, TX to
(b) Lines following the general Freeport, TX.
trend of the highwater shoreline (a) A line drawn from Galves-
drawn across the bayou and ton North Jetty Light 6A to
canal inlets from the Gulf of Galveston South Jetty Light 5A.
Mexico between South Point and (b) A line formed by the center-
Calcasieu Pass except as other- line of the highway bridge over
wise described in this section. San Luis Pass.
192
(c) Lines formed by the center- PACIFIC COAST
lines of the highway bridges over
the inlets to Christmas Bay ELEVENTH DISTRICT
(Cedar Cut) and Drum Bay. 80.1102 Santa Catalina
(d) A line drawn from the sea- Island, CA.
ward extremity of the Freeport The 72 COLREGS shall apply
North Jetty to Freeport Entrance to the harbors on Santa Catalina
Light 6; thence to Freeport Island.
Entrance Light 7; thence to the
seaward extremity of Freeport 80.1104 San Diego Harbor,
South Jetty. CA.
A line drawn from Zuniga Jetty
80.850 Brazos River, TX to Light V to Zuniga Jetty Light
the Rio Grande, TX. Z; thence to Point Loma Light.
(a) Except as otherwise
described in this section lines 80.1106 Mlssion Bay, CA.
drawn continuing the general A line drawn from Mission Bay
trend of the seaward, highwater South Jetty Light 2 to Mission
shorelines across the inlets to Bay North Jetty Light 1.
Brazos River Diversion Channel,
San Bernard River, Cedar 80.1108 Oceanside Harbor,
Lakes, Brown Cedar Cut, Colo- CA.
rado River, Matagorda Bay, A line drawn from Oceanside
Cedar Bayou, Corpus Christi South Jetty Light 4 to Oceanside
Bay, and Laguna Madre. Breakwater Light 3.
(b) A line drawn across the
seaward extremity of Matagorda 80.1110 Dana Point Harbor,
Ship Channel North Jetties. CA.
(c) A line drawn from the sea- A line drawn from Dana Point
ward tangent of Matagorda Jetty Light 6 to Dana Point
Peninsula at Decros Point to Breakwater Light 5.
Matagorda Light.
80.1112 Newport Bay, CA.
(d) A line drawn across the A line drawn from Newport Bay
seaward extremity of the East Jetty Light 4 to Newport
Aransas Pass Jetties. Bay West Jetty Light 3.
(e) A line drawn across the
seaward extremity of the Port 80.1114 San Pedro Bay-
Mansfield Entrance Jetties. Anaheim Bay, CA.
(f) A line drawn across the sea- (a) A line drawn across the
ward extremity of the Brazos seaward extremities of the
Santiago Pass Jetties. Anaheim Bay Entrance East
Jetties; thence to Long Beach
Breakwater East End Light 1.
193
(b) A line drawn from Long 80.1124 Ventura Marina,
Beach Channel Entrance Light 2 CA.
to Long Beach Light. A line drawn from Ventura
(c) A line drawn from Los Marina South Jetty Light 6 to
Angeles Main Entrance Channel Ventura Marina Breakwater
Light 2 to Los Angeles Light. South Light 3; thence to Ventura
Marina North Jetty Light 7.
80.1116 Redondo Harbor,
CA. 80.1126 Santa Barbara
A line drawn from Redondo Harbor, CA.
Beach East Jetty Light 2 to A line drawn from Santa
Redondo Beach West Jetty Barbara Harbor Light 4 to Santa
Light 3. Barbara Harbor Breakwater
Light.
80.1118 Marina Del Rey,
CA. 80.1130 San Luis Obispo
(a) A line drawn from Marina Bay, CA.
Del Rey Breakwater South Light A line drawn from the south-
1 to Marina Del Rey Light 4. ernmost extremity of Fossil Point
(b) A line drawn from Marina to the seaward extremity of
Del Rey Breakwater North Light Whaler Island Breakwater.
2 to Marina Del Rey Light 3.
(c) A line drawn from Marina 80.1132 Estero-Morro Bay,
Del Rey Light 4 to the seaward CA.
extremity of the Ballona Creek A line drawn from the seaward
South Jetty. extremity of the Morro Bay East
Breakwater to the Morro Bay
80.1120 Port Hueneme, CA. West Breakwater Light.
A line drawn from Port
Hueneme East Jetty Light 4 to 80.1134 Monterey Harbor,
Port Hueneme West Jetty Light CA.
3. A line drawn from Monterey
Harbor Light 6 to the northern
80.1122 Channel Islands extremity of Monterey Municipal
Harbor, CA. Wharf 2.
(a) A line drawn from Channel
Islands Harbor South Jetty Light 80.1136 Moss Landing
2 to Channel Islands Harbor Harbor, CA.
Breakwater South Light 1. A line drawn from the seaward
extremity of the pier located 0.3
(b) A line drawn from Channel
mile south of Moss Landing
Islands Harbor Breakwater North
Harbor Entrance to the seaward
Light to Channel Islands Harbor
extremity of the Moss Landing
North Jetty Light 5.
Harbor North Breakwater.
194
80.1138 Santa Cruz Harbor, 80.1152 Crescent City
CA. Harbor, CA.
A line drawn from the seaward A line drawn from Crescent
extremity of the Santa Cruz City Entrance Light to the south-
Harbor East Breakwater to Santa easternmost extremity of Whaler
Cruz Harbor West Breakwater 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 sea-
Harbor Light 6 to Pillar Point ward extremities of the Chetco
Harbor Entrance Light. River Entrance Jetties.
80.1142 San Francisco 80.1310 Rogue River, OR.

Harbor, CA. A line drawn across the sea-
A straight line drawn from ward extremities of the Rogue
Point Bonita Light through Mile River Entrance Jetties.
Rocks Light to the shore.
80.1315 Coquille River, OR.
80.1144 Bodega and A line drawn across the sea-
Tomales Bay, CA. ward extremities of the Coquille
(a) An east-west line drawn River Entrance Jetties.
from Sand Point to Avalis Beach.
(b) A line drawn from the sea- 80.1320 Coos Bay, OR.
ward extremity of Bodega A line drawn across the sea-
Harbor North Breakwater to ward extremities of the Coos
Bodega Harbor Entrance Light 1. Bay Entrance Jetties.
80.1146 Albion River, CA. 80.1325 Umpqua River,

A line drawn on an axis of OR.
030 true through Albion River A line drawn across the sea-
Light 1 across Albion Cove. ward extremities of the Umpqua
Entrance Jetties.
80.1148 Noyo River, CA. 80.1330 Siuslaw River, OR.
A line drawn from Noyo River A line drawn across the sea-
Entrance Daybeacon 4 to Noyo ward extremities of the Siuslaw
River Entrance Light 5. River Entrance Jetties.
80.1150 Arcata-Humboldt 80.1335 Alsea Bay, OR.
Bay, CA. A line drawn from the seaward
A line drawn from Humboldt shoreline on the north of the
Bay Entrance Light 4 to Hum- Alsea Bay Entrance 165 true
boldt Bay Entrance Light 3. across the channel entrance.
195
80.1340 Yaquina Bay, OR. 80.1375 Grays Harbor, WA.
A line drawn across the sea- A line drawn across the sea-
ward extremities of Yaquina Bay ward extremities (above water)
Entrance Jetties. of the Grays Harbor Entrance
Jetties.
80.1345 Depoe Bay, OR.
A line drawn across the Depoe 80.1380 Quillayute River,
Bay Channel entrance parallel WA.
with the general trend of the A line drawn from the seaward
highwater shoreline. extremity of the Quillayute River
Entrance East Jetty to the over-
80.1350 Netarts Bay, OR. head power cable tower charted
A line drawn from the northern- on James Island; thence a
most extremity of the shore on straight line through Quillayute
the south side of Netarts Bay River Entrance Light 3 to the
north to the opposite shoreline. shoreline.
80.1355 Tillamook Bay, OR. 80.1385 Strait of Juan de

A line drawn across the sea- Fuca.
ward extremities of the Tillamook The 72 COLREGS shall apply
Bay Entrance Jetties. on all waters of the Strait of Juan
de Fuca.
80.1360 Nehalem River,
OR. 80.1390 Haro Strait and
A line drawn approximately Strait of Georgia.
parallel with the general trend of The 72 COLREGS shall apply
the highwater shoreline across on all waters of the Haro Strait
the Nehalem River Entrance. and the Strait of Georgia.
80.1365 Columbia River 80.1395 Puget Sound and

Entrance, OR/WA. Adjacent Waters.
A line drawn from the seaward The 72 COLREGS shall apply
extremity of the Columbia River on all waters of Puget Sound
North Jetty (above water) 155 and adjacent waters, including
true to the seaward extremity of Lake Union, Lake Washington,
the Columbia River South Jetty Hood Canal, and all tributaries.
(above water).
80.1370 Willapa Bay, WA.

A line drawn from Willapa Bay
Light 169.8 true to the western-
most tripod charted 1.6 miles
south of Leadbetter Point.
196
PACIFIC ISLANDS 80.1460 Kahului Harbor,
Maui, Hl.
FOURTEENTH DISTRICT A line drawn from Kahului
Harbor Entrance East Break-
80.1410 Hawaiian Island water Light to Kahului Harbor
Exemption from General Rule. Entrance West Breakwater
Except as provided elsewhere Light.
in this part for Mamala Bay and
Kaneohe Bay on Oahu; Port 80.1470 Kawaihae Harbor,
Allen and Nawiliwili Bay on Hawaii, Hl.
Kauai; Kahului Harbor on Maui; A line drawn from Kawaihae
and Kawailae and Hilo Harbors Light to the seaward extremity of
on Hawaii, the 72 COLREGS the Kawaihae South Breakwater.
shall apply on all other bays, har-
bors, and lagoons of the 80.1480 Hilo Harbor,
Hawaiian Island (including Hawaii, Hl.
Midway). A line drawn from the seaward
extremity of the Hilo Breakwater
80.1420 Mamala Bay, 265 true (as an extension of the
Oahu, Hl. seaward side of the breakwater)
A line drawn from Barbers to the shoreline 0.2 nautical mile
Point Light to Diamond Head north of Alealea Point.
Light.
80.1490 Apra Harbor, U.S.
80.1430 Kaneohe Bay, Territory of Guam.
Oahu, Hl. A line drawn from the western-
A straight line drawn from most extremity of Orote Island to
Pyramid Rock Light across the westernmost extremity of
Kaneohe Bay through the center Glass Breakwater.
of Mokolii Island to the shoreline.
80.1495 U.S. Pacific Island
80.1440 Port Allen, Kauai, Possessions.
Hl. The 72 COLREGS shall apply
A line drawn from Hanapepe on the bays, harbors, lagoons,
Light to Hanapepe Bay Break- and waters surrounding the U.S.
water Light. Pacific Island Possessions of
American Samoa, Baker, How-
80.1450 Nawiliwili Harbor, land, Jarvis, Johnson, Palmyra,
Kauai, Hl. Swains and Wake Island.
A line drawn from Nawiliwili
Harbor Breakwater Light to Kukii
Point Light.
197
ALASKA
SEVENTEENTH DISTRICT
80.1705 Alaska
The 72 COLREGS shall apply
on 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 alterna-
tive 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 dis-
trict 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 hear-
ing. 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 sub-
ject 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 23OPERATIONS 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 endan-
gers 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 dan-
gerous 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 masters or individuals vessel or
to individuals on board; and
(2) give the masters or individuals 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 treat-
ment, or other assistance when the individual acts as an ordinary,
reasonable, and prudent individual would have acted under the cir-
cumstances.
2304 Duty to provide assistance at sea

(a) A master or individual in charge of a vessel shall render assis-
tance 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 masters or individuals 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 junc-
tive relief is considered under this section an opportunity to pre-
sent that persons 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 grant-
ing 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 inci-
dent) 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 communica-
tion 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 num-
ber 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 opera-
tor, 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 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-signalling appliances
under the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules prevents or significantly hin-
ders the operation in which the vessel is usually engaged.
2. General.
Vessels of special construction or purpose which cannot fully com-
ply with the light, shape, and sound signal provisions of the 72 COL-
REGS/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 deter-
mination and requires that alternative compliance be as close as pos-
sible with the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules. These regulations set out
the procedure by which a vessel may be certified for alternative com-
pliance.
3. Application for a Certificate of Alternative Compliance.

(a) The owner, builder, operator, or agent of a vessel of special con-
struction or purpose who believes the vessel cannot fully comply with
204
the 72 COLREGS/Inland Rules light, shape, or sound signal provi-
sions 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 vessels 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 vessels 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 require-
ments without interference with its special function;
(d) A statement of why full compliance would interfere with the spe-
cial 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 ter-
minates when the vessel ceases to be usually engaged in the oper-
ation for which the certificate is issued.
5. Certificate of Alterative Compliance: Termination.

The Certificate of Alternative Compliance terminates if the informa-
tion 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 documen-
tation 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 per-
sonnel.
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:
(a) Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway;
(b) Tombigbee River;
(c) Black Warrior River;
(d) Alabama River;
(e) Coosa River
(f) Mobile River above the Cochrane Bridge at St Louis Point;
(g) Flint River;
(h) Chattahoochee River, and
(i) 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 speci-
fied 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 OConnor 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 Christl
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 sub-
ject 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 Guards 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 list-
ing 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 envi-
ronment. 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 man-
agement 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:
(1) Every power-driven vessel of 20 meters or over in length
while navigating;
(2) Every vessel of 100 gross tons and upward carrying one or
more passengers for hire while navigating;
(3) Every towing vessel of 26 feet or over in length while navi-
gating; and
(4) Every dredge and floating plant engaged in or near a chan-
nel 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 infor-
mation.
(c) The radiotelephone required by paragraph (b) of this section
must be carried on board the described vessels, dredges, and float-
ing 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 bound-
ary, 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 channels 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 canals 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 receiv-
ing 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 sta-
tions to obtain or furnish information necessary for the safe naviga-
tion 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 fre-
quency 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 lis-
tening watch on the designated frequency. Nothing herein shall be
interpreted as precluding the use of portable radiotelephone equip-
ment 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 vessels 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 vessels 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 radio-
telephone 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 Comman-
dant 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 provi-
sions 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 exemp-
tion 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 naviga-
tion 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
TABLE 26.03(f) - VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICES (VTS) CALL SIGNS, DESIGNATED FREQUENCIES, AND MONITORING AREAS
VTS1 DESIGNATED FREQUENCY 2 MONITORING AREA

Call Sign (Channel designation)
NEW YORK3
New York Traffic 4 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11 ) & The navigable waters of the Lower New York Harbor bounded on the east by a line drawn from Norton Point to
156.700 MHz (Ch. 14) 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
Bay 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.:
214
Houston Traffic 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11) The navigable waters north of a line extending due west from the southern most end of Exxon Dock #1
(29 43.37 N., 95 01.27 W.).
156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) The navigable waters south of a line extending due west from the southern most end of Exxon Dock #1
(29 43.37 N., 95 01.27 W.).
BERWICK BAY
Berwick Traffic 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 W.
ST. MARYS RIVER

Soo Control 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 N. (lle
Parisienne Light), except the St. Marys Falls Canal and those navigable waters east of a line from 46 04.16N.
and 46 01.57 N. (La Pointe to Sims Point in Patagannissing Bay and Worsley Bay).
SAN FRANCISCO 3
San Francisco Offshore
Vessel Movement
Reporting Service 156.600 MHz (Ch. 12) The waters within a 38 nautical mile radius of Mount Tamalpais (37 55.8 N., 122 34.6 W.) excluding the
San Francisco Offshore Precautionary Area.
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 Clty.
TABLE 26.03(f) - VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICES (VTS) CALL SIGNS, DESIGNATED FREQUENCIES, AND MONITORING AREAS (cont.)
PUGET SOUND 5
Seattle Traffic 6 156.700 MHz (Ch. 14) The navigable waters of Puget Sound, Hood Canal and adjacent waters south of a line connecting Marrowstone Point and Lagoon
Point in Admiralty inlet and south of a line drawn due east from the southernmost tip of Possession Point on Whidbey Island to the
shoreline.
156.250 MHz (Ch. 5A) The navigable waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca east of 124 40 W. excluding the waters in the central portion of the Strait of
Juan de Fuca north and east of Race Rocks; the navigable waters of the Strait of Georgia east of 122 52 W.; the San Juan Island
Archipelago, Rosario Strait, Bellingham Bay; Admiralty Inlet north of a line connecting Marrowstone Point and Lagoon Point and all
waters east of Whidbey Island north of a line drawn due east from the southernmost tip of Possession Point on Whidbey Island to
the shoreline.
Tofino Traffic 7 156.725 MHz (Ch. 74) The waters west of 124 40 W. within 50 nautical miles of the coast of Vancouver Island including the waters north of 48 N ., and
east of 127 W.
Vancouver Traffic 156.550 MHz (Ch. 11) 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 Strait.
PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND 8

Valdez Traffic 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13) The navigable waters south of 61 05 N., east of 147 20 W., north of 60 N., and west of 146 30 W.; and, all navigable waters in
Port Valdez.
LOUISVILLE 8
Louisville Traffic 156.650 MHz (Ch. 13) The navigable waters of the Ohio River between McAlpine Locks (Mile 606) and Twelve Mile Island (Mile 593), only when the
215
McAlpine upper pool gauge is at approximately 13.0 feet or above .
Notes: 1. VTS regulations are denoted in 33 CFR Part 161. All geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) are expressed in North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
2. In the event of a communication failure either by the vessel traffic center or the vessel or radio congestion on a designated VTS 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 fre-
quency, however, only to the 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 report (Sail Plan) to New York Traffic on Channel 11 (156.550 MHz). All other reports, 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 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 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 monitor the other primary VTS frequency 156.250 MHz or 156.700 MHz (Channel 5A or 14) depending on traffic density, weather conditions,
or other safety factors, rather than strictly adhering to the designated frequency required for each monitoring area as defined above. This does not require a vessel to monitor both
primary frequencies.
7. A portion of Tofino Sectors 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.
8. The bridge-to-bridge navigational frequency, 156.650 MHz (Channel 13), is used in these VTSs because the level of radiotelephone transmissions does not warrant a designated
VTS frequency. The listening watch required by 26.05 of this chapter is not limited to the monitoring area.
NOTES
216
NOTES
217
NOTES
218
U.S. Department
NAVIGATION RULES
of Transportation
United States
Coast Guard
NAVIGATION RULES
INTERNATIONALINLAND
COMDTINST M16672.2C

USCG Navigation Rules

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U.S.

CHANGE DATE OF DATE BY WHOM

CONVERSION TABLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

NAVIGATION RULES AND REGULATIONS

PART BSteering and Sailing Rules

PART CLights and Shapes

PART DSound and Light Signals

ANNEX IPOSITIONING AND TECHNICAL DETAILS OF LIGHTS

INTERPRETATIVE RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

COLREGS DEMARCATION LINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCEInternational & Inland . . . . . . . . . . 204

WATERS SPECIFIED BY THE SECRETARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE

The International Rules in this book were formalized in the

VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE RADIOTELEPHONE

Conversion of Metric to U.S. Customary/Imperial Units

1 Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an intermittent flashing

1 Submarines may display, as a distinctive means of identification, an intermittent flash-

(d) Traffic separation schemes may be adopted by the

(e) Whenever the Government concerned shall have determined

(d) Traffic separation schemes may be established for the purpos-

(e) The word seaplane includes any aircraft designed to maneu-

The term vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver shall

(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing or picking up a navigation

(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying or underwater opera-

(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, pro-

(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

(h) The term vessel constrained by her draft means a power-dri-

(i) a vessel engaged in laying, servicing, or picking up a navigation

(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying, or underwater opera-

(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, pro-

(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

(h) The word underway means that a vessel is not at anchor, or

(I) Western Rivers means the Mississippi River, its tributaries,

(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:

(b) Additionally, by vessels with operational radar:

(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in length or a sailing vessel shall

(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in

(I) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in

(k) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in

(I) A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver when engaged in

Section IIConduct of Vessels in Sight of

(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as

Subpart IIConduct of Vessels in Sight of

(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as

Section IIIConduct of Vessels in Restricted

Subpart IIIConduct of Vessels in Restricted

PART CLIGHTS AND SHAPES

PART CLIGHTS AND SHAPES

(c) Sternlight means a white light placed as nearly as practicable

(b) In vessels of 12 meters or more in length but less than 50