Overtaking (Rule 13)
You are overtaking a slower vessel (you come from more than 22.5 abaft her beam).
Scenario briefing
You are overtaking a slower vessel (you come from more than 22.5° abaft her beam). Rule 13 applies even in restricted visibility you must keep out of the way. Rule 19(d)(i) does NOT prohibit port alterations when overtaking. Pass with CPA 1 NM and finally well clear.
Applicable COLREG rule(s)
📸 Bridge simulator scene
Captured directly from the SkipperCheck COLREG bridge simulator at scenario T = 0 — the moment the encounter begins.
Key teaching points
- You are overtaking when you approach from more than 22.5° abaft the other vessel's beam (Rule 13(b)).
- Rule 13 overrides Rules 14–18 — even in restricted visibility, Rule 13 still applies.
- Any subsequent alteration of bearing does NOT make you a crossing vessel — you remain the overtaker until finally past and clear (Rule 13(d)).
- Rule 19(d)(i) does NOT prohibit port alterations when overtaking, so port-side passing is permissible.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Switching to "crossing" rules halfway through because the geometry changed. Rule 13(d) keeps you the overtaker.
- Overtaking too close — Rule 13 demands you keep out of the way, which means a wide enough CPA to absorb the other vessel's yaw and any wake reaction.
Why it matters
Exam relevance
The 22.5°-abaft-the-beam test and the Rule 13(d) "remains overtaker" principle are standard probes in RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster and STCW OOW orals.
Related scenarios
About SkipperCheck simulators
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