Rules of the Road · Steering & Sailing Rules
Under Rule 13, any vessel overtaking any other vessel shall:
- AKeep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken✓ Correct
- BSound one prolonged blast to signal her intention to overtake
- CProceed at a speed sufficient to complete the overtaking in minimum time
- DOvertake only on the starboard side of the vessel ahead
Explanation
Rule 13(a) places an absolute duty on the overtaking vessel to keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken, regardless of any other rule that might otherwise apply. Rule 13 overrides the head-on and crossing rules — once in the overtaking sector, Rule 13 governs.
Authority: 72 COLREGS Rule 13(a)
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