Overtaking

Practical guides to the COLREGS, buoyage, lights and shapes, and exam prep - written to be useful at the chart table, not just in the classroom.

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Rule 13 Overtaking: The Rule That Overrides All Others

Rule 13 makes every overtaking vessel give-way, full stop. Here's how to identify an overtaking situation, apply the stern-light test, and know when you're finally clear.

15 June 2026 · 8 min read