Rules of the Road · Responsibilities — Rule 18 Hierarchy

Under Rule 18, a power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of all the following EXCEPT:

Explanation

A power-driven vessel gives way to NUC, RAM, fishing, and sailing vessels. Seaplanes (Rule 18(e)) are generally required to keep well clear of all vessels, so a power-driven vessel does not give way to a seaplane.

Authority: COLREGS/Navigation Rules, Rule 18

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