Module 5 - COLREGs
What Are the COLREGs?
The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs, also known as IRPCS) are the 'rules of the road' at sea. They apply to all vessels on the high seas and connected navigable waters. At Yachtmaster Offshore level you still need full knowledge of the steering and sailing rules, applied to more demanding scenarios including restricted visibility and traffic separation.
The regulations are divided into parts: Part A (General), Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules), Part C (Lights and Shapes), Part D (Sound and Light Signals), and Part E (Exemptions).
Look-out
Risk
Action
Responsibilities
Lights & shapes
- COLREGs apply to ALL vessels on navigable waters
- Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules) requires full knowledge
- Rules exist to prevent collisions — both vessels share responsibility
Build COLREGs confidence
The full COLREGs module breaks the rules into situations, vessel responsibilities, lights, shapes, and practical quiz feedback.