IRPCS: PART B – Section II

Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rules 11 to 18

The second section of Part B focuses on when vessels can see one another. Importantly, this is anytime other than when conditions are creating restricted visibility.

This is where we learn about hierarchy, and each vessel’s obligations should their paths cross. The hierarchy is based mainly on manoeuvrability, with the guiding principle that a more manoeuvrable vessel can avoid a less manoeuvrable one. It also outlines what each should do if two of the same type come together.