Which COLREGS Rule addresses overtaking?

• A. Rule 13 – Overtaking
• B. Rule 9 – Narrow Channels
• C. Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision
• D. Rule 5 – Lookout

Answer: (A)

Overtaking is a specific situation in COLREGS where one vessel is approaching another from behind. The rule that directly covers this scenario requires the overtaking vessel to keep clear of the vessel being overtaken until it is past and clear. It also emphasizes that the overtaking vessel should take early action to pass at a safe distance, and the vessel being overtaken should not unduly obstruct the overtaker. In practice, you identify overtaking by the relative bearing: if the other vessel lies more than about 135 degrees abaft your bow, you are overtaking and must keep well clear until you have passed.

The other options govern different situations. Narrow channels deal with passage in tight channels, general collision avoidance is covered by the broader rule on actions to avoid collision, and lookouts are essential for safe navigation but do not specifically address the overtaking scenario.