Rule 13 - Overtaking

COLREGS Extracts

“Any vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken.”

“A vessel shall be deemed to be overtaking when coming up with another vessel from a direction more than 22.5° abaft her beam… At night she would be able to see only the sternlight of that vessel but neither of her sidelights.”

“If in doubt whether you are overtaking, assume that you are and act accordingly.”

“Any subsequent change of bearing does not make the overtaking vessel a crossing vessel or relieve her of the duty of keeping clear until finally past and clear.”

Plain English

• If you are coming from behind, within the sternlight arc (more than 22.5° abaft the beam), you are overtaking.

• The overtaking ship is always the give-way vessel.

• If unsure whether you are overtaking, assume you are.

• Once overtaking, always overtaking – the duty to keep clear remains until you are well past and clear. Even if the vessel being overtaken alters, it does NOT become a crossing situation.

Advice for Cadets

• Stand-On Vessel does nothing. The ship ahead maintains course and speed.

• Act early and positively. Small, hesitant alterations cause danger. Remember, any action should be taken in 'PAGS'. 

• Starboard is safest. The usual method is a starboard alteration to pass clear.

• Don’t relax too early. Keep clear until well past and safely ahead.

• Call the Master early. Especially if overtaking in narrow channels, traffic lanes, or restricted visibility.