Rules 1–3
Part A — General
Application of the rules, responsibility, and general definitions (e.g. 'vessel', 'underway', 'restricted visibility').
International Convention · IMO · 1972
COLREGs 1972 — Visual Guide🚧 Under development
This section is a work in progress — content and interactions will be refined based on Capt Mohab's review.
An interactive reference for the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (1972). Switch between vessel types to see their correct lights and day shapes, watch animated encounter diagrams, hear the manoeuvring and fog signals, and test yourself with a 10-question quiz. Free to use — ideal for SQA Mates/Masters oral-exam prep and watchkeeping refresher.
Rules 4–19
Part B — Steering & Sailing
Conduct in any condition of visibility (look-out, safe speed, risk of collision, action to avoid, narrow channels, TSS) and conduct in sight of one another (sailing, overtaking, head-on, crossing, stand-on / give-way). Rule 19 covers restricted visibility.
Rules 20–31
Part C — Lights & Shapes
Application, definitions, visibility ranges (Rule 22), and the lights/shapes for every category of vessel — power, sailing, towing, fishing, NUC, RAM, CBD, pilot, anchored, aground, seaplanes & WIG craft.
Rules 32–37
Part D — Sound & Light Signals
Equipment definitions, manoeuvring & warning signals, signals in restricted visibility, signals to attract attention and distress signals.
Rule 38
Part E — Exemptions
Time-limited exemptions for vessels whose keel was laid before the entry into force of the convention.
Annex I–IV
Annexes I–IV
I — Positioning and technical details of lights & shapes. II — Additional signals for fishing vessels in close proximity. III — Technical details of sound signal appliances. IV — Distress signals.
Disclaimer: this tool is for training and refresher use only. Always consult the current consolidated text of the COLREGs (IMO Sales Number IB904E) and your flag State's interpretations for operational decisions. Light positions in the simulator are schematic, not to-scale technical drawings — refer to Annex I for exact positioning requirements.