Seamanship

Seamanship

Table of Contents
1 The boat .............................................................................................................................. 6

1.1 Parts of a boat ........................................................................................................ 6

1.2 Types of sailboats ................................................................................................... 9

1.3 Locating yourself on a boat ..................................................................................10

2 Sailing terms ....................................................................................................................11

2.1 Wind terms............................................................................................................11

2.2 Apparent wind .......................................................................................................12

2.3 Points of sail .........................................................................................................13

2.4 Determining direction ............................................................................................14

2.5 Balancing the boat ................................................................................................15

2.6 Sailing terms PRACTICE QUESTIONS ...............................................................16

3 Sail handling equipment .................................................................................................17

3.1 Lines and ropes ....................................................................................................17

3.2 Cables/wire ropes .................................................................................................19

3.3 Blocks and tackles ................................................................................................20

3.4 Winches ................................................................................................................ 22

3.5 The Fleming windvane self-steering system ........................................................23

3.6 Sail handling equipment PRACTICE QUESTIONS .............................................24

4 Sailing tactics...................................................................................................................25

4.1 Heel and leeway ...................................................................................................25

4.2 Tacking and gybing ..............................................................................................26

4.3 Sail trimming .........................................................................................................27

5 Maneuvering under power ..............................................................................................28

5.1 The wind’s effect ...................................................................................................28

5.2 The helm’s effect ..................................................................................................29

5.3 Prop walk ..............................................................................................................30

6 Docking .............................................................................................................................31

6.1 Making preparations .............................................................................................31

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6.2 Basic rules ............................................................................................................31

6.3 Port/Starboard to (alongside) ...............................................................................32

6.4 Stern to .................................................................................................................32

7 Anchoring .........................................................................................................................33

7.1 Parts of the anchor ...............................................................................................33

7.2 Types of anchors ..................................................................................................34

7.3 Equipment – legal requirements ...........................................................................37

7.4 Preparations .........................................................................................................37

7.5 Determining proper scope ....................................................................................37

7.6 Determining min/max depth..................................................................................37

7.7 How to anchor ......................................................................................................38

7.8 Dragging anchor ...................................................................................................40

7.9 Anchor buoys ........................................................................................................40

7.10 Releasing a stuck anchor .....................................................................................41

8 Towing ..............................................................................................................................42

8.1 Towing effects ......................................................................................................42

8.2 Bow towing ...........................................................................................................42

8.3 Alongside towing ..................................................................................................43

8.4 Rescue towing ......................................................................................................43

8.5 Sailing Tactics PRACTICE QUESTIONS .............................................................43

9 Meteorology .....................................................................................................................46

9.1 General .................................................................................................................46

9.2 Synoptic pressure systems...................................................................................47

9.3 Fronts....................................................................................................................49

9.4 Winds ....................................................................................................................50

9.5 Beaufort wind force scale .....................................................................................50

9.6 Clouds...................................................................................................................51

9.7 Meteorological definitions .....................................................................................51

9.8 Local winds ...........................................................................................................53

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9.9 Regional synoptic systems ...................................................................................53

9.10 Waves ...................................................................................................................54

9.11 Summary ..............................................................................................................55

9.12 Meteorology PRACTICE QUESTIONS ................................................................56

10 Emergencies ....................................................................................................................58

10.1 Steering failure .....................................................................................................58

10.2 Dismasting ............................................................................................................59

10.3 Broken boom ........................................................................................................59

10.4 Broken stay/shroud ...............................................................................................59

10.5 Broken jib halyard .................................................................................................59

10.6 Flooding ................................................................................................................59

10.7 Fire........................................................................................................................61

10.8 Running aground ..................................................................................................62

10.9 Beaching ...............................................................................................................63

10.10 Man overboard (MOB) ..........................................................................................64

11 Sailing in bad weather .....................................................................................................65

11.1 How to decide if the seas are rough .....................................................................65

11.2 Gale warnings .......................................................................................................65

11.3 Preparations .........................................................................................................65

11.4 Shortening the sails (reefing)................................................................................66

11.5 How to sail in bad weather ...................................................................................67

11.6 Abandoning ship ...................................................................................................68

11.7 Emergencies PRACTICE QUESTIONS ...............................................................71

12 Mandatory equipment on a sailboat/motor vessel .......................................................74

13 Mandatory documents on a sailboat/motor vessel ......................................................76

14 Definitions and regulations ............................................................................................78

15 Day sailing shapes ..........................................................................................................81

16 Code flags ........................................................................................................................82

17 Navigation lights ..............................................................................................................83

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17.1 Navigation lights PRACTICE QUESTIONS ...............................................................87

18 Markings ...........................................................................................................................89

19 Sound signals ..................................................................................................................90

19.1 Sound signals PRACTICE QUESTIONS ..................................................................91

20 Rules of the road .............................................................................................................93

20.1 Right of way PRACTICE QUESTIONS ...................................................................100

20.2 Seamanship ANSWERS .........................................................................................109

20.3 Vessel Identification .................................................................................................113

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1 The boat
1.1 Parts of a boat

Mast
Batten

Foresail

Mainsail

Shroud

Boom
Lifeline

Stern Bow

Rudder Keel

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Mast: a vertical pole to which sails are attached

Boom: a horizontal pole that extends from the mast and supports the foot of the
mainsail

Keel: the lowest part of the boat, provides deep ballast and lateral area to resist leeway
(sideways drift) and heeling (tipping)

Rudder: an underwater blade used to steer the boat, controlled by a tiller or wheel

Stern: the rear or aft part of the vessel

Bow: the forward end of the boat

Tiller: a horizontal steering rod

Wheel: connected to the rudder and used to steer the vessel

Head

Parts of the Head

Sail

Leech

Tell Tales

Luff
Batten

Clew Tack

Foot

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Parts of the
Rigging
Upper
Shrouds

Backstay

Forestay

Spreaders
Lower
Cockpit Shrouds

Deck
Tiller

Rigging:

Halyards: the lines used to hoist the sails

Stays: the wires supporting the mast fore and aft

Shrouds: the wires supporting the mast to the sides

Spreaders: small poles extending out from the mast, providing additional
support to the mast

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1.2 Types of sailboats

Sloop Ketch Schooner

Sloop: a sailboat with a single mast, has only one headsail set at a time

Ketch: a sailboat with two masts, the aft mast (mizzen mast) is shorter than the main
mast and ahead of the rudder post

Schooner: a sailboat with two or more masts, the aft mast is tallest

Sails:

Foresail/headsail (includes jib and genoa): a sail set on the

forestay/headstay

Mainsail: the principal sail, hoisted on the aft side of the mainmast

Spinnaker: a light, parachute-shaped sail used when sailing off the wind

Mizzen: the smaller, aft-most sail on a ketch or yawl, set on the mizzenmast

SPINNAKER

MAINSAIL

JIB

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1.3 Locating yourself on a boat

Bow

Port Starboard

Centerline Beam
Stern

Bow: the forward part of the boat

Stern: the rear or aft-most part of the boat

Port: the left side of the boat

Starboard: the right side of the boat

Beam: the width of the boat at its widest point, the imaginary line that divides the boat
into fore and aft

Centerline: the imaginary line that runs down the middle of the boat from bow to stern,
dividing the boat into port (left) and starboard (right)

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2 Sailing terms
2.1 Wind terms

Wind

Wind

Into the wind: when the Off the wind: when the wind
wind comes across the bow comes across the stern

Wind

Leeward
Windward
(downwind, off
(upwind, into
the wind)
the wind)

Windward: being upwind (closer to the wind) of another object

Leeward: being downwind (farther from the wind) of another object

**The side of the vessel that the wind hits first is windward!**

Wind

Wind
Port tack Starboard tack

Tack: the side of the boat that the wind comes over (hits first)

Port tack: the wind comes over the port side

Starboard tack: the wind comes over the starboard side

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2.2 Apparent wind

True wind: the wind unaffected by the motion of objects. This is the wind that you feel
when standing still. It can be observed by looking at stationary objects like flags.

Head wind: the wind created by an object’s movement. This is equal to an object’s
speed, and may or may not come from the same direction as the true wind.

Apparent wind: the wind you feel when moving, a combination of the true wind and the
head wind. When measuring wind in motion, we measure the apparent wind. We also
adjust our sails according to the apparent wind.

Measuring apparent wind

10 mph 10 mph
(speed) (speed)

Apparent wind Apparent wind

= true wind + = true wind –
head wind head wind
Wind
Apparent wind Apparent wind
= 20 mph 10 mph = 0 mph
(true wind)

True wind
Apparent wind

Speed

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2.3 Points of sail

Head up: to alter your course to windward, also ‘harden up’

Bear off: to alter your course to leeward, also ‘bear away’

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2.4 Determining direction

True bearing: the bearing measured relative to true north

Vessel A sights Vessel B on true bearing 315.

N (000)
NW (315) NE (045)
B

W (270) E (090)

A
SW (225) SE (135)
S (180)

Relative bearing: the bearing measured relative to the vessel’s centerline or heading
Vessel A sights Vessel B on relative bearing port 045.

000
045 045
B

090 090

A
135 135
180

Port Starboard

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2.5 Balancing the boat

Center of effort (CE): the focus of the wind’s pressure on the sails

Center of lateral resistance (CLE): the focus of all leeway-preventing forces (the boat
axis); the imaginary pivot point around which the boat rotates

The relationship between these two centers determines how well the boat will be
balanced.

*A well-balanced boat steers more easily and sails faster and more comfortably with only
a modest helping hand from the pilot.*

CE

CLR
CE behind CLR: the tendency of the boat to turn towards the wind; the stern will blow
off the wind, pivoting the bow into the wind, resulting in weather helm. Also occurs when
sailing only with the mainsail.

CE forward of CLR: the tendency of the boat to turn away from the wind; the bow will
blow off the wind, pivoting the stern into the wind, resulting in lee helm. Also occurs
when sailing only with the foresail.

Solutions:

1. Move the CE 2. Move the CLR

a. trim or ease one of the sails a. move weight from the bow or stern
b. reef or unreef one of the sails b. move the keel (if possible)

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2.6 Sailing Terms PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. You are sailing on a broad reach, with the wind at 20 knots, and you’re
finding it difficult to keep a steady course. What can go wrong?
a. The steering system could be damaged.
b. The boom could switch sides extremely quickly.
c. The jib could get stuck in the upper shroud.
d. The helmsman could get tired and fall asleep.

2. What is apparent wind?

a. Wind created only by the movement of the yacht.
b. The result of the yacht’s speed and the true wind.
c. The wind that results from the wind blowing from behind faster than the
yacht’s speed.
d. The wind estimated by the boat’s skipper according to the sea level.

3. The recommended turn in strong winds is a:

a. turn with the wind: gybe
b. turn into the wind: tack
c. turn with the wind: tack
d. turn into the wind: gybe

4. When the stern is heavier than the bow, the boat tends to:
a. head up into the wind.
b. head off the wind.
c. stay balanced.
d. a heavier stern doesn’t influence heading up/off

5. When the bow is heavier than the stern, the boat tends to:
a. head up into the wind.
b. head off the wind.
c. stay balanced.
d. a heavier bow doesn’t influence heading up/off

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3 Sail handling equipment

3.1 Lines and ropes

In boating terminology, ‘line’ is distinct from ‘rope’. Rope is manufactured and delivered
to marine hardware stores on large drums. A line is a length cut from rope for a specific
purpose on a boat. Sheets and halyards are both examples of lines.

Rope materials

There are two different kinds of rope: twisted three-strand (laid) rope and braided rope.
Rope is made from two main materials:
1. Natural fibers: inexpensive, with a tendency to absorb water and stretch,
vulnerable to rot and the sun
Most common: manila, cotton, and coconut
2. Synthetic materials: more resistant to rot and sun and absorb less water than
natural fibers, but more expensive than natural fibers

Almost all modern ropes are made from synthetic materials, each with its own
unique properties. This makes each suitable for a different job.
Most common: Dacron, polyester, nylon, and polypropylene

Maintenance:

1. Store in a dry place out of the sun.

2. Keep sheets out of the sun when sailing.
3. Coil the line symmetrically.
4. Wash the line in fresh water after each use and dry before storing.
5. Wrap tape using duct tape, heavy cloth, a piece of leather, or a split piece of
garden hose to prevent abrasion.
6. Keep away from chemicals.
7. Burn, whip, or splice the end of the line.

Safety instructions:

1. Do not overload the line.

2. Do not stand next to or work close to a line under tension (for example, when
towing).

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3. Keep fingers away from winches and cleats when handling lines.
4. While pulling a line, do not twist it around your arm or body in any way.
5. Do not stand between a line and the edge of the boat.

Line uses and characteristics:

1. Docking and anchoring: Use a line that is strong, flexible, and can absorb the
load and jerks caused by the boat’s movement. Nylon and manila are ideal.
2. Towing: Use a line that is flexible and floats. Polypropylene is ideal.
3. Halyards and sheets: Use a line that is rigid, strong, and doesn’t need adjusting.
Dacron and Kevlar are ideal.

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3.2 Cables/wire ropes

Cables are made of stainless steel wires that are laid in strands.
They are identified by two numbers, such as 7x19. The first number is how many strands
are in the wire. The second is the number of wires in each strand.
The more strands and wires in a cable, the more flexible and weaker the cable will be.

Flexible cables: Example - 7x19. Often used for halyards.

Rigid cables: Example - 1x19. Often used for stays.

Wire maintenance:

1. Wash and clean cables in fresh water after use.

2. Keep wire rope free of meat hooks (broken wire strands) and rust. Replace when
necessary.
3. Wire ropes that are constantly under load should be lubricated with Vaseline or
white grease.
4. Check metal sleeve’s tightness.
5. If a wire rope has been used for a load larger than its safe working load, it should
be replaced.
6. A wire with any flaws should be replaced.

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3.3 Blocks and tackles

A block is a nautical pulley. It consists of a sheave (a wheel that rotates on an axle
or a bearing) between two cheeks (side plates).

Mobile blocks sheave

Can be fixed on the
boom or other mobiles

cheek

Block

Fixed blocks
Can be fixed on the hull
or other non-mobiles

Tackles
A tackle (or purchase) is a system of blocks and lines that increases pulling power. It
consists of at least two blocks, and its power is called its mechanical advantage or
purchase. The more lines within a tackle, the more power, but as you increase the
amount of power, you must also increase the amount of rope you have to pull.

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Mechanical Advantage
A tackle’s mechanical advantage is calculated by counting its parts. For example, a two-
part tackle with two single blocks has a mechanical advantage of 2:1. This means that
you can haul almost 50lbs by exerting 25lbs of force on the line. A four-part tackle with
four single blocks has a mechanical advantage of 4:1, meaning you can haul almost 100
lbs by exerting 25 lbs of force.

A four-part tackle can also be made using two double blocks, dividing the line into four
sections and giving it a mechanical advantage of 4:1. Remember that this also means
you must pull four times as much line.

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3.4 Winches
A winch is a mechanical aid that increases a sailor’s pulling power on a sheet, halyard,
or other loaded line. It consists of a revolving drum mounted on a secure base. The
drum rotates clockwise, and a metal arm, called a winch handle, is inserted into the top
to turn it.

Winch handle
insertion point

Revolving drum

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3.5 The windvane self-steering system

The windvane self-steering system…

• uses the servo pendulum concept. A servo-pendulum system controls a rope

that moves the wheel or tiller in order to move the boat’s rudder. This keeps the
boat on course.

• orients the boat to the wind, not the compass. The small, sail-like vane on a
post over the stern is adjusted to the desired wind angle.

• is connected to a flap (trip tab) on a separate rudder. When the boat swings
off the desired wind angle, the vane turns the tab or rudder and brings the boat
back on course.

Advantage: Doesn’t require electricity, and therefore useful on long sails.

Disadvantage: When the wind changes, it has to be reset.

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2 Sailing Equipment PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. Important rules in protecting the boat’s ropes include:
a. keeping them in a dry, shady place
b. burning, splicing, or tying the ends of the rope
c. padding them in friction spots
d. all of the above

2. How much power is gained from a rope system with 3 ropes coming out of
moving rollers?
a. 1:3
b. 1:2
c. 1:4
d. 3:1

3. How much mechanical advantage is there from a four-part tackle?

a. 1:4
b. 4:1
c. 1:3
d. Mechanical advantage is determined by the lines coming out of the fixed
tackle.

4. How much pulling power is needed in order to lift an engine weighing 60kg
with the boom’s three-part tackle, assuming there is no resistance?
a. 30kg
b. 25kg
c. 20kg
d. 40kg

5. The purpose of a sea drogue is:

a. to slow the boat down
b. to prevent the boat from rolling over
c. to straighten the boat 50°-70° from the wind
d. a & b are correct

6. Mark the uses of the drogue.

a. slows down the boat and prevents capsizing
b. keeps the bow and stern into the wind and waves
c. prevents the boat from hitting a wave head-on
d. all of the above

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4 Sailing tactics
4.1 Heel and leeway

Heeling: when the boat leans or tips due to the pressure of the wind on the sails; the
farther the CE is from the CLR, the greater the heel

While some heeling is normal, excessive heeling can slow the boat and cause the boat
to be blown sideways (increased leeway)

Solutions:

1. move weight (have crew sit on windward side of boat)

2. reef the sails
3. ease the sails

Leeway: the sideways slipping movement of the boat downwind due to the force of the
wind or the current; the keel reduces the effect of leeway

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4.2 Tacking and gybing

Tacking Gybing

Wind Wind

3 Starboard 1 Starboard
tack tack

2 Stern
facing the
2 Bow wind
facing the
wind

1 Port tack 3 Port tack

When sailing in winds up to 15 knots, we can change tacks by either gybing or tacking.
When sailing in winds above 15 knots, we will change tacks ONLY by tacking.

Tacking: On a tack, the boom swings slowly from one side of the boat to the other.
Gybing: On a gybe, the boom can swing across the boat quickly, which can be
dangerous to the crew.

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4.3 Sail trimming

*In order to decrease tension, sails must be hoisted with the

bow headed into the wind.*

Primary sail trimming: trimming the sail to half the angle between the wind and the
centerline

Secondary/fine sail trimming: trimming the sail to the point at which it stops luffing
(flapping)
Wind

Centerline Sailing
45° course

45°
Sail position
Wind

Wind

Off the wind Running wind Side wind Close hauled &
(running) (broad reach) (beam reach) close reach

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5 Maneuvering under power

5.1 The wind’s effect
The wind pushes the whole boat, but it mainly affects the bow, since it is lighter (the
engine is near the stern) and not as low in the water.

What makes the bow head off the wind

A boat that is standing without maneuvering is affected only by the wind,
and therefore the bow (which is affected more than the stern) will head off
the wind until the boat’s stern is facing the wind almost completely.

wind

Bow heads off

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5.2 The helm’s effect

The helm is the tiller or the steering wheel that turns the rudder to change the boat’s
course.

The helm is effective only when water flows over the rudder as a result of the
boat’s motion. The faster the flow, the more effective the helm is.

Note: When using a wheel, the rudder and the wheel turn in different directions.
When using a tiller, the rudder and the tiller turn in the same direction.

Moving forward

Rudder on port side: Rudder on starboard side: Rudder straight:

More pressure on the More pressure on the right Equal pressure on both
left side of the rudder. side of the rudder. sides of the rudder.
Bow turns left, stern Bow turns right, stern Vessel will sail straight.
moves to the right. moves to the left.

Moving backward

Rudder on port side: Rudder on starboard side: Rudder straight:

More pressure on the More pressure on the left Equal pressure on both
right side of the rudder. side of the rudder. sides of the rudder.
Stern turns left, bow Bow turns left, stern Vessel will sail straight.
moves right. moves right.

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5.3 Prop walk

The propeller not only moves water forward and aft (backwards), but also to the side.
The side motion of the water swings the boat’s stern left or right, depending on the
rotation of the propeller. This is called ‘prop walk’.

Right hand propeller (turns clockwise)

Moving forward Moving backward

Stern moves right Stern moves left

(to starboard) (to port)

Right hand propeller in a strong wind (15K) moving

backwards.

Wind’s effect
wind

Prop walk’s effect

In strong winds (>15K), the wind’s effect is stronger than the

prop walk.
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6 Docking
6.1 Making Preparations

1. Gather information about the anchorage from the pilot book’s chart.
2. Check the type of dock.
3. Get instructions from the harbormaster.
4. Check the meteorological and oceanographic conditions (wind, current, waves,
and tides).
5. Prepare the docking lines according to the type of approach needed.
6. Ensure that you have fenders on the side of the boat you plan to dock on.

6.2 Basic rules

1. Cover the dock lines at the points of friction.
2. Divide the pressure between several dock lines.
3. You can use a spring line or a mooring shock absorber to maintain tension on the
dock lines.
4. When wind strength is increasing, it is strongly advised to double the dock lines
and make them as long as possible.

Note: When you must choose between two weak lines or one strong line,
one strong line is preferable.

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6.3 Port/Starboard to (alongside)

A
B
E C D
G F

A – Bow line
B – Stern line
C – Forward spring line
D – Aft spring line
E – Forward (bow) breast line
F – Aft (stern) breast line
G – Breast line

• Docking alongside a pier is best for loading and unloading equipment or dropping
off passengers.
• Whenever a boat is tied to (lying at) a pier, the topsides should be protected by
fenders; the larger, the better.

6.4 Stern to

A A anchoring
poles or
mooring buoys

B B

C C

‘C’ lines prevent the stern from moving side to side.

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7 Anchoring
Anchoring properly requires familiarity with some specialized equipment and skills,
as well as careful planning and alertness to weather and current.

7.1 Parts of the anchor

Rope rode

Shackle
Chain rode

Fluke
Shank

Stock
Fluke

Crown

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7.2 Types of anchors

• Stable
• Floating
• Portable

Moorings
A mooring can be a heavy object or a large mushroom anchor that is connected to a
heavy chain and a buoy. Attached to the buoy is a length of nylon rope used to connect
the boat.

Drogue or sea anchor

• Used to cause drag in order to stabilize the boat and keep the boat pointing into
the waves while slowing it down.
• Used in bad weather or for emergency steering (released from astern while
running before the wind and waves, thus centering the stern towards the wind
and waves. This prevents rolling and capsizing.)
• Can be a dedicated parachute made of canvas or any object that will cause drag.

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Portable anchors
Stored on the boat and used for anchoring for short or long periods of time. A boat will
usually have more than one anchor suitable for a variety of different sea beds.

Fisherman anchor
Good on hard soil. A heavy, non-burying anchor. Due to its size and
awkwardness, it is rarely used today.

Grapnel anchor

Used mainly as a lunch hook or for grabbing objects. A lightweight, multipronged

anchor.

Mushroom anchor
Used mainly for mud or mooring because it holds well and is hard to retrieve.

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Danforth anchor
Used for soft bottoms. Lightweight and compact.

CQR plough anchor

Good for most sea beds. Digs into the sea bottom, stores conveniently in a roller
at the bow.

Bruce anchor
Used for most sea beds, including rock. Has no moving parts and is good with
short scope.

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7.3 Equipment – legal requirements

For 9-13m boats

1. Rope rode length: 70m

2. Main anchor weight: 15kg
3. Line diameter: 14mm
4. Line type: nylon
5. Chain length: 10m
6. Chain thickness: 10mm
7. Second anchor weight: minimum of 7kg

7.4 Preparations
Choose an anchorage using the pilot book and relevant map, looking out for any
obstacles and reefs. Also be aware of:
1. meteorological and oceanographic conditions (wind, current, waves, and tides)
2. seabed type (can be found in chart and pilot book)
3. depth (also in chart and pilot book)
4. obstacles in the area (other boats, buoys, reefs, etc.)
5. choosing a suitable anchor
6. preparing the anchor chain line

7.5 Determining proper scope

• In shallow water (<7 meters) = depth x 7
• In deep water (>7 meters) = depth x 3
• With an all-chain rode = depth x 3

7.6 Determining min/max depth

• Max depth = Max rode/3
• Min depth = Draft + Height of waves + Tide + Spare

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7.7 How to anchor

A. Using one anchor from the bow:

1. Choose a suitable anchorage.
2. Prepare rode and anchor.
3. Steer boat into the wind and towards your chosen spot.
4. Allow boat to slow and come to a stop.
5. Do not drop anchor until the boat is stopped dead or
making sternway.
6. Veer out rode.
7. Set the anchor.
8. Sail backwards to assure anchor has a strong grip in the
seabed.
9. Check whether anchor is skimming over grass or dragging:
a. if line is jerking or twisting
b. if your bearings to the shore are changing
c. if your bow is not heading into the wind
10. Turn on anchoring lights or put up anchoring shapes.

B. Using two anchors from the bow:

This anchoring technique is used to prevent swinging due to a tidal stream,
changing winds, or to spread the load when less scope is required.
1. Drop the first anchor.
2. Sail or power the boat across the
wind, letting out the rode.
3. Drop the second anchor.
4. Check for dragging or skimming.
5. Let out anchor rode for both anchors until
boat hangs balanced between them at an
angle of 30°-60° between the lines.
6. Turn on anchoring lights or put up anchoring
shapes.

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C. Bahamian mooring: two anchors, one from the bow, one from the stern
This anchoring technique is used when we have a current that is opposite the
wind (180°) or if the mooring has minimal swinging room.
1. Drop the first anchor over the stern, digging in as you go.
2. Power up and drop the second anchor over the bow.
3. Pull back and dig in.
4. Balance the boat between the two anchors.

D. Mediterranean mooring (stern-to): two anchors, one from the bow, one
from the stern
• In some harbors, vessels must use an anchor to moor at docks. An anchor is
used over the bow, while the stern is against the dock.
• When mooring in an unfamiliar place or with insufficient information about the
mooring area, consider mooring bow-to rather than stern-to in order to protect the
boat’s rudder and propeller.

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7.8 Dragging anchor

Anchoring properly requires familiarity with some specialized equipment and skills,
as well as careful planning and alertness to weather and current.

How to know if your anchor is dragging or skimming:

1. vibrations on the anchor rode

2. bow not upwind
3. change of bearings

Troubleshooting:

1. let out another 10m of anchor rode and recheck anchor hold
2. let out another 10m again (only do this twice)
3. consider adding another anchor or more weight
4. consider changing anchorage

7.9 Anchor buoys

If you anticipate an anchor recovery problem, tie a trip line to the anchor crown and
connect it to a buoy. When ready, pull up anchor via the trip line.

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7.10 Releasing a stuck anchor

What to do if your anchor gets stuck in a sea bed:

1. Try pulling in different directions.

2. If possible, dive and pry out the anchor.
3. Use the boat as a lever to pull up the anchor rode.
4. If you have an anchor buoy, use it.

What to do if your anchor gets stuck under a second anchor rode:

1. Use a grapnel or buoy hook to lift the second anchor rode.
2. Disconnect the anchor rode. Use a second line to secure the second vessel’s rode
to your boat. Lower your anchor and free it from the second anchor rode. When it’s
free, lift the anchor on board and lower the second vessel’s rode back down.
3. Ask the second vessel to lift their anchor.

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8 Towing
If you’re hard aground, your boat is leaking badly, or if the engine has broken down, you
may need to be towed to shore.

Things to remember when towing:

1. towline should be strong, flexible, heavy, and long enough for the conditions of
the tow
2. on small boat: towline can be tied to the mast
3. on large boat: secure towline to a large, through-bolted bow cleat
4. nylon line is most suitable

8.1 Towing effects

• decrease of speed
• rough steering
• engine overheating
• higher fuel consumption
• pressure on friction areas (cleats, mast)
• extreme tension on lines
• danger of lines tangling in propeller
• danger of a line snapping, which could cause serious damage
*Note: Remember to change navigation lights or day signs

8.2 Bow towing

• The towed boat is tied from its bow to the towing boat’s stern.
• This technique is good in most weather conditions.
• In narrow spaces, towline should be shortened for better maneuvering.
• In rough seas, use a heavier and longer towline.

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8.3 Alongside towing

• The towed boat is tied alongside the towing boat.
• This technique is useful in narrow spaces and in calm seas.

8.4 Emergency towing

• Used for short distances and only in emergencies.
• Towline can snap due to extreme tension and friction.
• Towing strength cannot be controlled, potentially causing damage to either the
towed or towing boat (especially when towed boat is hard aground).

Stern to stern towing

Bow to bow towing

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8.5 Sailing Tactics PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. You’re on a boat with a clockwise-turning propeller and a light wind
blowing on the portside. When backing up, where will the stern move?
a. Left, with the effect of the propeller and the wind.
b. Left, with the effect of the propeller prevailing over the light wind.
c. Right, with the wind’s effect prevailing over the effect of the propeller.
d. The boat will move in a straight line.

2. You are sailing in a 12-meter boat with a right hand propeller, and the wind
is from your portside at 15 knots. You put the boat in reverse and leave the
rudder in the middle. The boat stops and starts to move backwards. The
stern is:
a. moving straight backwards.
b. turning to the left because of the pressure of the propeller and the wind.
c. turning to the right because of the pressure of the propeller and the wind.
d. none of the above; you cannot know how the boat will react after a sudden
stop.

3. If the boat is backing up, which direction will you steer the rudder blade in
order to turn the bow right?
a. right
b. left
c. center
d. The rudder’s blade has nothing to do with the bow’s heading.

4. The ship is backing up. You wish to turn your bow to starboard. In which
direction will you turn the wheel?
a. starboard
b. port
c. The wheel has no effect.
d. Center the wheel; the prop walk will do the job.

5. You are sailing on an eastern course, the wind blowing from 100°, and you
feel that the rudder is a bit loose in the water. What is causing it?
a. Sailing into the wind causes a reduction in the boat’s speed.
b. There is a problem in the rudder system’s connections.
c. The rudder should be a bit loose, so it’s easier to sail.
d. The rudder is always a bit loose when the wind comes from 100°.

6. Sailing with the jib only, your ship will have a tendency to:
a. head up into the wind.
b. head off the wind.
c. stay balanced.
d. head up in light winds.

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7. Sailing with a full mainsail and a shortened jib, your ship will have a
tendency to:
a. head up into the wind.
b. head off the wind.
c. stay balanced.
d. head up in light winds.

8. While sailing on a beam reach, you feel a strong tendency of the boat to
‘head up’. What should you do?
a. Switch to a smaller jib.
b. Move more weight forward to the bow.
c. Release a bit of tension from the jib.
d. Shorten the main sail a bit.

9. You are anchoring at a 10m depth. The sea bottom is sandy, the boat’s
length is 12m, and the anchor is attached to a chain. The chain’s length for
anchoring should be:
a. not more than 24m (twice the length of the boat)
b. at least 48m
c. 35m
d. It is forbidden to use a chain for anchorage. I’ll switch to a 36m nylon rope.

10. You are aboard a 12m vessel. The ground is sandy and rocky. The water
depth is 10m. You wish to anchor. How much anchor line do you need to
pay out?
a. 24m
b. 35m
c. 20m
d. 120m

11. You have noticed your boat’s anchor is dragging. What should you do?
a. release more anchor chain/rope
b. add more weight to the anchor or another anchor
c. raise the anchor and anchor again
d. all of the above

12. Why is it considered dangerous to tow a ship that’s run aground?

a. The rope could break while towing, injuring the crewmembers.

b. There is no way to control the towing power, and damage could be done.
c. There is no way to control the towing direction, and damage could be done.
d. There is no way to tow at night.

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13. When readying to tow another boat in heavy weather, you should choose:
a. stern towing (the towing boat’s stern to the towed boat’s stern).
b. bow towing (the towing boat’s stern to the towed boat’s bow).
c. alongside towing, which allows both boats to be bow towards the wave.
d. to tie the towing boat’s bow to the towed boat’s bow so the uncontrolled
towed boat will be bow towards the waves.

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9 Meteorology
9.1 General
Meteorology: The study of atmospheric conditions and weather patterns.
• Weather is the state of the atmosphere, such as wind speed, temperature,
and humidity.
• It is extremely important for sailors to understand the weather and weather
forecasts in order to avoid bad weather or prepare for it if you are at sea.
“The good seaman weathers the storm he cannot avoid, and avoids the
storm he cannot weather.” (unknown)
• Sailing is an art. A sailor should understand the sea like an artist
understands light and shadow.
• “Weather can be predicted quite accurately not only by meteorologists, but
also by lay people who are alert to the sky and environment. The most
important telltales of coming weather are current wind direction, cloud
condition, and barometer reading...” (The Annapolis Book of Seamanship)

Three main factors:

1. Temperature: measured in Fahrenheit (F) or Centigrade (C) degrees (°).
2. Barometric pressure: Also called atmospheric pressure, it is the weight of the
air surrounding the earth. Measured in millibars (mb) by a barometer, the
average pressure is 1013mb, with the pressure on earth ranging from 950-
1050mb.
3. Humidity: The amount of water vapor in the air, measured in percentage.

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9.2 Synoptic pressure systems

Synoptic charts: Show pressure systems and weather patterns over a large
geographical area.
• Synoptic charts can help us predict the weather in a given area and time.
When reading consecutive maps, we can forecast what the weather will be
in the near future.
• The chart is based on air pressure and uses isobars.
Isobars: From the Greek iso and bar, meaning ‘equal pressure’. These are
lines connecting points of equal pressure. The lines are usually drawn in
increments of 5 millibars (mb).

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High and low pressure systems

‘High’ or ‘low’ is determined according to the pressure in the areas around the
center of the pressure system.

❖ Low: A low-pressure area, marked by the letter ‘L’ on synoptic maps. Like valleys in
a topographic map.
▪ often caused by solar heating, with warmer air ascending
▪ ascending air -> cooling down -> cloud formation -> stormy weather
▪ wind moves parallel to isobars counter-clockwise, converging, rising

❖ High: A high-pressure area, marked by the letter ‘H’ on synoptic maps. Like
mountains in a topographical map.
▪ often caused by air masses being cooled, with cooler air descending
▪ descending air -> warming up -> stable weather
▪ wind moves parallel to isobars clockwise, diverging, descending

9.3 Fronts
A front is when two air pockets meet.

Cold front: occurs when a cold air pocket moves in and pushes under a
warmer air pocket, causing the cold air to elevate quickly and cool. This causes
quick changes in the weather conditions, strong winds, cumulonimbus clouds,
rain, thunder, and lightning.

Warm front: occurs when a warm air pocket meets a colder air pocket, riding
on top of it. The warm air pocket rises slowly, causing mild changes in the
weather conditions.

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9.4 Winds
• Wind is moving air caused by differences in air pressure in the atmosphere.
Wind blows from high to low pressure systems.
• The closer together (or steeper the slope between) the isobars, the harder the
wind blows.
• Wind is measure in knots (kn). 1kn = 1 nautical mile = 1.852 km/hour
• Wind is named according to the direction it comes from. For example, a
westerly wind is a wind that comes from the west.
• We usually first define the direction of the wind, and then its strength.
• The Beaufort wind force scale is used for measuring wind speed.

The wind’s path is influenced by three main factors:

1. Barometric pressure: Flows from high to low, the bigger the pressure
difference, the greater the wind’s strength. The density of the isobars on a
synoptic map indicate the wind’s strength (the closer together, the stronger the
wind).
2. Coriolis effect: Wind is partly thrown off course by the rotation of the earth. In
the Northern Hemisphere, out-rushing winds from high-pressure cells blow
clockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, in-rushing winds blow
counterclockwise around a low-pressure cell.
3. Surface friction: The final factor influencing the air’s movements. The lowest
layer of earth’s atmosphere (<1000 meters) experiences friction, which slows the
wind down. Wind at this level is often affected by ground temperatures and the
physical irregularities on the earth’s surface.

9.5 Beaufort wind force scale

**See chart on next page**

How to convert the Beaufort scale into wind speed and vice versa:
1. Wind speed to Beaufort level:
(5 + wind speed) ÷ 5 = Beaufort Force level
Example: convert 20 knots to Beaufort level
(5 + 20) ÷ 5 = Force 5
2. Beaufort level to wind speed:
(5 x Beaufort level) - 5 = wind speed
Example: convert Beaufort level 6 to wind speed
(5 x 6) - 5 = 25 knots (22-27)

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9.6 Clouds
Clouds are a collection of small drops of water that occur due to the cooling of an
air mass to its dew point.
Horizontal clouds: cirrus and stratus clouds mean stable weather
Vertical clouds: cumulus and cumulonimbus clouds mean heavy weather

9.7 Meteorological definitions

Breeze: (for the Eastern Mediterranean area)
• A climate phenomenon typical in the summer caused by the temperature
differences between the sea and the land during the day and at night. This
results in the sea tending to heat up and cool down slowly.
• During the day, the land heats up quickly while the sea is colder, and so the
hot air rises. The wind from the sea moves in to compensate for the
ascending air, which causes a northwestern to western wind from the sea.
• At night, the land cools down quickly while the sea is warmer, which causes
a southeastern to eastern wind from the shore.

Katabatic wind:

• A downslope wind that carries high-density air from a higher elevation down
a slope due to gravity. When the wind blows through a valley, its strength
increases because of the narrow passage, while its direction changes
according to the valley’s direction.

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9.8 Local winds

Sharkia: A wind typical to our region in the spring, fall, and sometimes winter.
A strong eastern wind (shark means ‘east’ in Arabic) that can easily reach 30
knots or more at the mouth of valleys. Strong, dry, and primarily felt in the north
of Israel.

Meltemi: A wind that blows in the Aegean Sea from mid-May until mid-
September. A north-northwestern wind, it can reach 45 knots and last for 10
days at a time. Cold and dry.

Mistral: A wind blowing down from the Alps towards the French Riviera in the
winter. A north wind, it can reach 45 knots. Cold and dry.

Bora: A cold, katabatic wind on the Adriatic coast of the Balkans, it can occur
at night any time of year. A north to northeast wind, it can reach 45 knots.

9.9 Regional synoptic systems

Cyprus low-pressure system:
• In the winter, the Mediterranean Sea is warmer than the shore around it due
to the heat it absorbs in the summer. A low-pressure system is created on
the eastern side of the Mediterranean as a result. This low-pressure system
passes over Israel on its way east-northeast.
• Typical winds: southwestern to western, gathering strength over time
• Pressure: decreasing
• Temperature: dropping
• Humidity: rising
• Clouds: cumulus followed by cumulonimbus
• General weather: stormy with lightning and thunderstorms

Siberian high-pressure system:

• A cold high-pressure system positioned above Siberia and in southern Asia
in winter. Caused by the sun’s route south due to earth’s tilt relative to the
sun.
• Typical winds: gentle to moderate northeastern breeze
• Pressure: high and stable
• Temperature: low
• Humidity: low
• Clouds: cirrus or clear sky, with no rain

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Red Sea low-pressure system:

• The sun’s southern route heats the land in central Africa, creating a low-
pressure system over Ethiopia and Sudan. This sends an extension of low
pressure towards the Red Sea. Typical of in-between seasons.
• Typical winds: strong eastern winds
• Pressure: low
• Temperature: very high
• Humidity: very low
• Clouds: no clouds or rain

Persian low-pressure system:

• The sun travels north and heats the land in the southeast, which creates a
monsoon low-pressure system in the Persian Gulf. This system sends an
extension of low pressure to the west. Typical of in-between seasons.
• Typical winds: fresh northern breeze
• Pressure: low
• Temperature: high
• Humidity: low
• Clouds: no clouds or rain

9.10 Waves
Waves are created by energy that passes through water. This causes it to
move in a circular motion. Waves are most commonly caused by the wind,
resulting in surface (or wind-driven) waves.

There are two kinds of sea waves:

1. long waves, such as those resulting from underwater earthquake (tsunamis)
2. short waves
There are two types of short waves:
a. wind-driven waves: surface waves that occur when the wind blows over an
area of fluid surface; move in the same direction as the wind
b. swell waves: long, wind-driven waves that occur after the wind ceases to
blow; do not necessarily move in the same direction as the wind
Wave height factors:
• Wind strength: the stronger the wind, the bigger the waves
• Wind duration: the longer the wind blows, the bigger the waves
• Wind distance: the longer the distance the wind blows over the sea, the
bigger the waves

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9.11 Summary

Average barometric pressure 1013mb

Range 870-1084mb

Low (Northern Hemisphere) Low

counter-clockwise clockwise
inwards outwards
ascending descending

bad weather calm weather

warm front cold front

moderate/ strong winds/

fresh winds gale or storm

Isobars: lines on synoptic chart where points of equal pressure meet

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9.12 Meteorology PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. The wind speed is 25 knots, the sea is full of whitecaps, the waves are 4-5m
high. What is the wind’s strength according to the Beaufort scale, and what
actions would you perform?
a. Beaufort 6 – strong breeze, consider going into a safe anchorage or changing
your route, and meanwhile prepare the ship for heavy weather
b. Beaufort 5 – strong breeze, consider going into a safe anchorage or changing
your route, and meanwhile prepare the ship for heavy weather
c. Beaufort 4 – light breeze, there’s no need to take any action
d. Beaufort 7 – near gale, prepare to abandon ship

2. You are aboard a 24m ketch and the wind freshens. Your heading is 300°,
and the true wind is blowing 60° to your starboard side at 25k. What is the
wind’s strength according to the Beaufort scale, and what is the wind
direction?
a. breeze, Beaufort 6, NNW wind
b. strong breeze, Beaufort 6, N wind
c. Beaufort 7, NW wind
d. a storm is approaching from the NW

3. What are the risks to the boat when sailing in a storm with thunder and
lightning?
a. Heavy rain can flood the boat.
b. Lightning can endanger the crew members’ lives and damage the boat.
c. There is no risk to the boat because it is made of fiberglass.
d. Strong thunder can damage the crew members’ ears.

4. What is the Cyprus Low system? What does it cause in our area?
a. a typical summer low system located in the area of Cyprus that causes rainy
and cloudy weather, northeasterly winds, and choppy seas on the eastern
side of the Mediterranean
b. a typical summer low system located in the area of Cyprus that causes rainy
and cloudy weather, southwesterly winds, and choppy seas on the eastern
side of the Mediterranean
c. a typical winter low system located in the area of Cyprus that causes rainy
and cloudy weather, southwesterly winds, and choppy seas on the eastern
side of the Mediterranean
d. a typical winter low system located in the area of Cyprus that causes hot and
pleasant weather, southwesterly winds, and calm seas on the eastern side of
the Mediterranean

5. It is summertime, and you are sailing in the Aegean Sea. You left Iraklion
(Crete) at noon heading north. The sky is clear, and there is a light but
constant northwesterly wind with a few stronger gusts. While heading out

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to sea, you notice high cirrus and altocumulus clouds moving south very
quickly. What is the upcoming weather, and what actions will you take?
a. There won’t be a change in weather; continue sailing as planned.
b. A normal breeze strengthening is expected; shorten the sails.
c. An unusual strengthening of the Meltemi winds is expected; shorten the sails.
d. An unusual strengthening of the Meltemi winds is expected; sail along the
shore until the wind weakens.

6. You are sailing on a northwestern course with light southwesterly winds

when you notice black, low clouds moving from west to east. What’s the
forecast for the next 24 hours?
a. The storm is already behind me.
b. There is no special meaning to low, black clouds.
c. There is a storm heading towards me.
d. Hot, pleasant weather is in the forecast.

7. You are at latitude 35°N in a low-pressure system. How will the wind blow?
a. counter-clockwise and outward
b. clockwise and outward
c. counter-clockwise and inward
d. clockwise and inward

8. You are at latitude 38°N in a high-pressure system. How will the wind blow?
a. Inward, counter-clockwise
b. Outward, clockwise
c. Inward, clockwise
d. Outward, counter-clockwise

9. The direction of the wind at latitude 32°N around a barometric high is:
a. towards the center of the high, outward, counter-clockwise
b. towards the center of the high, inward, and clockwise
c. from the center of the high, outward, and counter-clockwise
d. from the center of the high, outward, and clockwise

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10 Emergencies
10.1 Steering failure
If the tiller, wheel, or steering cable breaks, you’ll have to make emergency
repairs.
typical quadrant steering system

steering wheel

emergency tiller post

quadrant
steering cable

rudder

• In a steering failure situation (excluding the rudder), install the

emergency tiller on the rudderpost.
• In the case of a damaged rudder or rudderpost, shift to emergency
steering using one of the following methods:

1. Although it works slowly, using 2. A jury-rigged (improvised)

towed objects (such as a floating emergency rudder can be
anchor, bucket, sail, or any object fashioned from a long plank or
which produces drag) should not pole, a floorboard, or a hatch with
fail in rough seas. some line leading to the cockpit
winches.

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10.2 Dismasting
Dismasting means a boat has a broken mast, but the boat itself is still upright
and seaworthy. This can happen due to high winds during a storm.
What to do:
1. Shift the gear into neutral (a rope can get stuck in your propeller)
2. Drag the mast on board or disconnect it and allow it to sink (it can make a
hole in the hull)
3. Make sure that there are no lines or wires in the water.
4. Use a jury-rigged mast. You can set a sail either from the top of the mast’s
stump, from a spinnaker pole, or using a boom stepped as an emergency
mast.

10.3 Broken boom

What to do:
1. Shift the gear into neutral (a rope can get stuck in your propeller)
2. Drag the boom on board or disconnect it and allow it to sink (it can make a
hole in the hull)
3. Make sure that there are no lines or wires in the water.
4. Use a jury-rigged boom.

10.4 Broken stay/shroud

What to do:
• Tack immediately!
• Immediately cast off all sheets to luff the sails and alter course so the
broken stay or shroud will be leeward.
• A halyard might be rigged as a temporary stay/shroud; tighten as much
as possible.

10.5 Broken jib halyard

What to do:
• Head to broad reach immediately to lower the pressure from the
forestay.
• Alter the stay with another rope/line.

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10.6 Flooding
When a boat is taking on water, it can enter from:
• Seacocks, pitot tube (for logging speed), depth sounder
• Propeller shaft
• Cracks or holes
• Water coming over the gunwales or transom
• Freshwater hose burst

Troubleshooting:
• Taste the water to determine the cause of the flood (seawater,
freshwater, or fuel).
• Turn on all pumping equipment.
• Close all intake and outlet holes, seacocks, and thru-hulls.
• Mark the water level for later reference.
• Spot and seal the water entrance point (leak)
• Turn the engine on in order to charge the batteries (pumps consume
large amounts of electricity).
• Raise batteries to avoid contact with the water.
• If the hull is holed, heel as far as possible in the opposite direction while
preparing a patch.
• Seal the affected section/compartment of the boat if possible.

If the flood cannot be contained:

1. Transmit a mayday signal and your position.
2. Prepare the crew to abandon ship.
3. Check the possibility of beaching the vessel.

Pumping equipment:
• Electric or mechanical bilge pumps
• Manual bilge pump
• Engine cooling pump
• Buckets, pots, etc.
• Toilet or shower pump
Have a large variety of pumps so you can react as quickly as possible in any
scenario.

Sealing equipment:
• Wooden plugs
• Fast drying glues
• Mattresses, cushions, sail bags, clothing, etc.

10.7 Fire
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Besides sinking, the greatest common threat to any vessel is fire.

Preparation is crucial.

Common fire classes:

• Class A: combustible materials (wood, trash, cloth, etc.)
• Class B: flammable liquids (including cooking fuel, engine, fuel, and grease)
• Class C: live electrical fires
Fire Type Material Foam CO2 Powder Water
A Solids + - + +
B Liquids Limited limited + -
C Electrical +
Equipment - +
destroys -
the device
Note: Powder is the recommended extinguisher for use on boats, as it is
effective in all fires.

What to do when you spot a fire:

1. Find the fire’s source and determine its material (solid, liquid, electric).
2. Steer the boat to point the fire away from the wind
3. Turn off the motor, electricity, fuel, and gas (main cocks).
4. Alert the crew, evacuate them from the area of the fire, and assign tasks:
• Extinguish fire
• Lower sails
• Prepare rescue equipment
• Pump water
5. Remove all flammable substances, such as fuel and gas tanks.
6. If needed, signal for help.

If the fire is extinguished:

1. Be on the lookout for embers that could rekindle the fire.
2. Evaluate the damage: check the crew and the ship.
3. If a mayday message was transmitted, send a ‘seelonce feenee’ message to
alert help that the emergency situation has ended.

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If the fire cannot be extinguished:

1. Prepare to abandon the vessel.
2. Transmit mayday, including exact position of vessel.

Rules for fire prevention:

1. Do not leave an open fire unattended.
2. Do not smoke inside the cabins.
3. Electrical systems should be on different circuits.
4. Beware of gas leaks.
5. Maintain a dry bilge.
6. Ventilate the engine room.
7. Engine compartment should have automatic extinguishing system.
8. Keep engine bilge free of oil and fuel.

10.8 Running aground

Running aground can be a minor problem, completely devastating, or
something in between.

Problems that may occur:

• Hull damage can cause flooding
• Broken propeller
• Propeller shaft damage
• Engine failure
• Disconnected keel
• Rudder damage
• Damage to underwater equipment

What to do:
1. Lower the sails completely to avoid further grounding.
2. Shift gear into neutral or turn engine off.
3. Check crew for injuries.
4. Check the hull for holes, leaks, or other damage.
5. Try using the motor to engine off the bottom (if shallow sand or mud) – usually
the propeller is not run aground. If you’re able to motor off quickly, you may
prevent further damage to the hull.
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6. Heel the boat using the crew’s weight on the boom or by using a halyard
connected to the anchor.
7. Always heel towards deep water.
8. If you anticipate being aground for a while, lay fenders, cushions, and other
protection between the hull and the bottom to protect the hull.

If unable to motor off the bottom:

• Heel the boat by connecting the main halyard to another vessel or by accepting a
tow. This situation is very dangerous, since we cannot control the force used.
• Wait for the tide to rise and lift you off.
• Take some weight off the boat.

10.9 Beaching
Beaching is a situation where a vessel sails toward the beach until it hits the
bottom. Beaching can happen accidentally (loss of control over boat, miscalculated
location), or intentionally (a maneuver to save the boat from sinking).

Signs to determine proximity to shore:

• color of water
• birds
• signs of civilization (garbage, wood, etc.)
• light pollution
• smog

Potential problems to consider when intentionally beaching:

• capsizing in the surf
• maneuvering problems in the surf
• hitting hard ground at high speed

How to intentionally beach your boat:

1. Choose a suitable spot if possible.
a. ground type
b. meteorological and oceanographic conditions
2. Brief the crew. Verify every crewmember has suitable clothing and a life vest.
3. If safer, transfer nonessential crew to dinghy or have them swim ashore.
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4. Do not secure crew to the vessel.

5. Close all openings.
6. Broadcast position.
7. Check for emergency motor shut-off in case of capsizing.
8. If motor is running, beach the vessel bow-to.
a. Pull drogue from stern.
b. Release anchor from stern.
c. Try to time the beaching with the waves.
9. If motor isn’t running, beach the vessel stern-to.
a. Use drogue from bow.
b. Release anchor from bow.

10.10 Man overboard (MOB)

What to do:
1. Shout “Man overboard!” to alert the crew.
2. Steer the stern away from the MOB and shift engine into neutral.
3. Immediately throw a lifebuoy or life jacket.
4. Push the MOB button on the GPS.
5. Approach MOB with the boat.
6. If necessary, transmit a mayday call on the VHF radio.

If the MOB is on another vessel:

An Oscar flag signals a MOB or a Mayday call.
1. Decrease speed.
2. Increase awareness.
3. Join the coordinated search.

How to get the MOB back on board:

1. Use a halyard tied around the body of the MOB.
2. Use the boom.
3. Use the main halyard with the boom.

11 Sailing in bad weather

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Stormy weather is a situation in which one or more of the following conditions can
endanger the vessel:
• Wind – strength, fetch length, and duration
• Waves – height and steepness

Meteorological conditions including rain, mist, snow, extreme temperatures, current,

and even sandstorms can increase the danger.

11.1 How to decide if the seas are rough

• Consider the wind and waves.
• Consider the vessel itself and the crew.

11.2 Gale warning

Check the weather conditions and forecast on:
• the radio or TV
• coastal stations (on a regular basis)
• gale warning transmissions on Channel 16
• Navtex
• the internet
• synoptic maps and forecasts
• weather forecasts by phone
• Be aware of the changing weather around you (winds, clouds, barometer).

11.3 Preparations
When bad weather is headed your way, consider entering a safe port or
sailing away from shore. Meanwhile:
• Reef the sails.
• Brief the crew.
• Close all hatches.
• Mark GPS positions more often.
• Prepare pumping equipment.
• Check the engine and batteries.
• Listen to the VHF radio and distress channels.
• Lash down everything you cannot remove, such as the tiller, wheel, and
boom.
• Prepare food and water.
• Prepare and check safety equipment (life rafts, dinghy).
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• Wear life jackets.

• Prepare lifelines and safety harnesses.
• Wear warm clothing.
• Close all seacocks that are not in use.
• Check life rings with strobe lights and lifesling line.

11.4 Shortening the sails (reefing)

• When the wind blows so hard that depowering techniques aren’t
enough to control heel, you must make the sails both smaller and lower
by shortening down the sails. To do this, you must lower (or reef) a sail
or set a smaller sail; small sails have less heeling force than large ones.

• The reefing order will be such that it will keep the boat balanced.
Therefore, we reef the sails that are upwind first.
▪ When beating: jib first
▪ When running: main sail first
▪ When reaching: main sail first

• There are two types of reefing systems: tie-in and roller reefing
a. Tie-in reefing: By far the most common system because it is
faster and more efficient. To tie in a reef, you must have the
mainsail equipped with 2 cringles (heavy metal eyes) at
approximately the same height above the boom, one in the sail’s
luff and the other in its leech. After the halyard is lowered, the
cringles are pulled down and secured to the boom with luff and
leech reefing lines (also called earrings).

b. Roller reefing: Generally found in jibs as part of the roller furling

system, works by rolling the sail up around the boom or head stay.
Rarely used in mainsails.

• How to reef the jib and mainsail

1. Reefing the jib
a. Roller reefing systems: Furl the sail by rolling it to
the desired size.
b. Non-roller reefing systems: Change the sail to a
smaller one (storm jib).
2. Reefing the mainsail
a. Mainsail slab reefing systems: Lower the mainsail
to desired reefing point and secure the excess
sailcloth to the boom.
b. In-mast reefing system: Roll mainsail into the mast
by pulling on the furling line.

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11.5 How to sail in bad weather

Waves from abeam: The most dangerous situation due to roll and the danger
of capsizing. The boat is also threatened by waves covering it from the
topsides.

Waves on the bow: The most secure and ‘comfortable’ direction will be
between 10-40° to the waves.

Waves on the stern: Slow the boat to the best speed to avoid pitchpoling
(capsizing end-over-end) when accelerating down the edge of a steep wave
and plunging bow-first into the back of the next wave or even capsizing. To
slow down the boat, use a drogue or sea anchor to keep the stern to the
waves.

Heaving to: Nearly stopping the boat under sail, heaving to keeps the bow
near the wind and the boat more or less in the same place without requiring
someone to steer.

Note:
• The vessel will stabilize at 40°-70° to the wind and waves.
• The vessel will move slowly forward and leeward.
• The storm will pass as the vessel stands still.
• There isn’t much deviation from the planned course.
• The angle of the wind is according to the sail size.

Running before: Sailing slowly, stern to the wind. This helps us sail with the
waves and wind to avoid steep inclines.
• sails – furled
• helm – tied to the center
• drogue or sea anchor – to avoid pitchpoling
• stern – transfer weight to the stern to avoid pitchpoling and
uncontrolled turns

Note:
• This method is used at open sea, where there are no
obstacles or shore downwind.
• Use the storm jib tight to the center line.
• The vessel will move with the storm, which means the vessel will
be in the storm longer.
• The course will be according to the waves, which can cause you
to deviate from the planned course.
• A watchman should stay in the cockpit with a harness and life
jacket.
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11.6 Abandoning ship

Abandoning ship is the hardest decision a skipper can make. This decision is made
when a skipper acknowledges that there is no way that he can save the vessel, and
staying onboard will risk the crew’s lives. It should be the final resort.

What to do prior to abandoning ship:

1. Send out a mayday.
2. Use DSC radio if you have it.
3. Use distress signals.
4. Dress warmly and put on a life vest.
5. Collect extra equipment on deck to be taken to the life raft, including life
vests, flares, torches, blankets, first aid, portable VHF, EPIRB, SART,
food, water, etc.
6. Hand out emergency equipment to the crew.
7. Get life raft ready for launching.
8. Put dinghy in water and tie to the raft.
9. Use a drogue to keep abandoned vessel and life raft in position.
10. Prepare lifelines and lifebuoys.

Dangers when abandoning ship:

• injury
• drowning
• being swept away from the vessel and life raft
• getting wet (If possible, get the crew into the life raft without them
getting wet.)

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How to launch the life raft:

• If possible, launch the raft parallel to the vessel, 90° to the wind.
(downwind, you could be affected by the vessel, upwind the raft will be
thrown against the vessel)

Upwind: raft thrown

against vessel

Preferred for launching Preferred for launching

Downwind

• Make sure raft is tied securely to the vessel (for example, to the mast or
another strong holding).
• Try to cast the raft so that it inflates right side up.
If it inflates upside down, tie one of the crew securely and have them
swim to the CO2 tank that inflates the life raft. Make sure raft is
positioned so that the tank is downwind. Have crewmember stand on
CO2tank and pull on the painter (rope). The wind will help them to turn
the raft right side up.

Ways of getting to the raft:

i. Use a ladder or rope ladder.
ii. Wait for the vessel to semi-sink so that it’s closer to the water’s
surface.
iii. Jump directly into the raft.
iv. Jump into the water and swim to the raft.
• After equipment and crew are in the raft, disconnect from the vessel and
keep a safe distance.
• If possible, try moving closer to land. Otherwise, try to stay in your
present location to make it easier to be rescued.
• Distribute anti-seasickness tablets.
• Keep crew busy by maintaining shifts. Try to keep morale high.
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• Stay in the shade and distribute water and food in small amounts.
• Sit on the floor of the raft.

What to do if vessel capsizes/sinks prior to abandoning ship:

1. Gather entire crew in one place.
2. Count the crew to make sure no one is missing or possibly inside the
boat.
3. If possible, try to salvage emergency equipment from the capsized
vessel.
4. If the life raft is impossible to save, tie the crew together with a rope.

List of equipment required in life raft:

• 2 drogues
• 1 knife
• manual air pump
• puncture kit
• 2 paddles
• 6 hand flares, 4 parachute signals, 2 buoyant smoke signals
• 1 flashlight with spare batteries
• whistle
• emergency mirror
• fishing kit
• food
• 1/5 liters of water per person (for the number of people the raft is
designed for)
• container for collecting water
• measuring cup to divide water
• 3 can openers
• anti-seasickness tablets
• first aid kit
• survival manual

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11.7 Emergencies PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. While in a sailboat in the gulf of Eilat, your boat runs aground parallel to
the shore with your bow facing south. Which actions will you take in order
to get the boat off the bottom?
a. Put out anchors from the bow and the stern towards the east and pull.
b. Connect a halyard from the mast to the anchor’s chain and pull east.
c. Wait for high tide and try to take the boat off using the anchor’s winch.
d. Answers A & B

2. Your sailing vessel has run aground on a sand shoal. Trying to get off the
shoal yourself, you managed to throw an anchor toward the deep water.
Which actions will you take in order to get the boat off the bottom?
a. Connect the anchor line to the bow and pull until the boat comes off the
shoal.
b. Connect the anchor line to the stern and pull.
c. Bring the line abeam and connect the anchor line to a strong halyard and
pull.
d. Wait for a passing vessel.

3. You are sailing south in the Gulf of Eilat and run aground parallel to the
shore line. What should you do?
a. Throw anchors from stern and bow, and pull with them.
b. Wait until high tide comes in, and pull on the windlass winch.
c. Hook up a halyard from the mast and pull eastwards.
d. all of the above

4. You are aground on a sand bar with your sailboat. You threw down the
anchor 70m away from the boat into deep water. What should you do next?
a. Connect the anchor rope to the bow and pull until the boat comes off the
sand bar.
b. Connect the anchor rope to the stern and pull until the boat comes off the
sand bar.
c. Connect the anchor rope to one of the halyard ropes from the side and
pull perpendicular (90°) from the boat.
d. Wait until a motorboat arrives to assist.

5. When using the bucket method, how many lines go out of the stern
towards the bucket, and from where?
a. one line from the center stern
b. two lines both from the port side stern
c. two lines, one from each side
d. two lines both from the center stern

6. When should you use the tiller for emergency steering of the boat?

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a. when the steering cable is torn

b. when the rudder blade is broken
c. when the quadrant is broken
d. answers A & C

7. Which emergency steering method should you use when your rudder blade
breaks?
a. drogue
b. jury-rigged emergency rudder
c. tiller
d. answers A & B

8. You are beating into the wind, and suddenly the jib’s halyard tears. You
want to send crewmembers to the bow to fix it. What steps will you take?
a. It is too risky to fix it; I’ll do it later.
b. I will head off on a broad reach, stabilize the boat, and send
crewmembers (wearing safety harnesses) to the bow.
c. I will send crewmembers (wearing safety harnesses) to the bow while
keeping a stabilized course.
d. Fixing this problem on the open sea is not an option.

9. MOB on the starboard side while sailing, what will be the helmsman’s first
action?
a. Turn the helm to starboard to clear the stern from the MOB.
b. Turn the helm to starboard to clear the bow from the MOB.
c. Turn the helm to port to clear the stern from the MOB.
d. Turn the helm to port to clear the bow from the MOB.

10. It’s daytime, on the open sea, and you’re overtaking a large cargo ship. It’s
at half a mile and getting closer. Suddenly, the ship makes a sudden left
turn and sails in circles. It flies an Oscar flag and sounds 3 long horn blasts
one after another. What’s the problem, and what will you do?
a. It is a ship in distress. I’ll approach and offer assistance.
b. It appears the captain has had a few glasses of Johnny Walker; it’s better
to keep clear.
c. There is a MOB situation. I’ll slow down, observe carefully, and contact
him.
d. None of the above.

11. You’ve received a distress call 20 miles away on the radio. What should
you do?
a. I approach and offer assistance.
b. I am relieved because of the long distance.
c. I approach only if the distance is reasonable and there is no danger.

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d. I approach only if by doing so I do not endanger my vessel and there is

no closer vessel that is already approaching.

12. You have received a distress call from a ship 20 miles from your position.
What should you do?
a. Approach only if a coast station asks you to do so on Channel 16.
b. Approach only if the distance is not too far and there is no danger to your
vessel.
c. Approach to help unless there is a mortal danger to your crew.
d. Continue on your way; 20 miles is too far away.

13. A 12m sailboat is sailing from Haifa to Cyprus on a course of 310°. The sky
is clear, and a light wind is blowing. A row of low black clouds is
approaching from the SW. What weather should you expect for the next 24
hours, and what measures should you take?
a. A SW gale with thunder and heavy rain; I should prepare the boat for a
storm.
b. The storm has already passed; no need to prepare for anything.
c. Low black clouds are meteorologically insignificant.
d. Expect no change in weather.

14. While you are sailing close to shore from Haifa to Tel Aviv, a NW gale
breaks out, raising the waves to 4-5m height. What should you do?
a. Motor against the sea and waves.
b. Sail back to Haifa.
c. Throw a sea anchor out astern.
d. Continue quickly to the Herzliya marina.

15. You are on your way from Cyprus to Haifa in your sailboat. Forty miles
from Haifa, you get strong easterly winds. What should you do?
a. sail to Haifa
b. return to Cyprus
c. change your course to the south and seek an alternative harbor along the
shore
d. try to survive

16. You planned to sail to Larnaca on the 15th of February at 20:00. At 00:00,
you received a synoptic map that says the barometric pressure above
Crete is 996 mbar. The weather is currently nice at 9:00. What should you
do?
a. sail as planned
b. sail earlier, at 12:00
c. sail later (on the following day)
d. cancel the sail

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12 Mandatory equipment on a sailboat/motor vessel

• Floating equipment:
a. Standard fitted life jackets, one for each person onboard, as required in
the sailing capability license.
b. Floating assistance equipment: 1 life ring for every 4 people according to
boat’s capacity (total number of people permitted), attached to a floating
line, and a water-activated safety light
• Safety harnesses: 1 safety harness for every 2 people as required in the
sailing capability license
• Pyrotechnics equipment:
a. 6 red hand flares
b. 4 red parachute rockets
c. 2 smoke buoys (orange)
• First aid: Standard first aid kit
• Anchors: Main anchor and kedge anchor attached to minimum 70 meter
rode
• Life raft: Vessels on an international journey and a passenger boat must be
equipped with a life raft that has a sailing capability license for all
passengers. The life raft must have offshore authorization.
• Fire equipment:
a. At least three 3kg fire extinguishers (powder)
b. Automatic fire alarm with one 5kg extinguisher for engine room
c. Fire blanket
• Alternative steering option: Tiller
• Radio communication: VHF radio transmitter
• Electric or air horn
• Bilge pump:
a. Automatic electrical pump that pumps from the lowest point in the boat
b. Manual pump that is capable of pumping in every part of the boat
c. Bilge sensor with alarm and automatic pump
d. 2 buckets
• Navigation lights: according to the boat’s length and activity, including the
following situations: anchoring, restricted maneuverability, not under
command, grounded

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• Day signs:
a. 3 black balls and a black diamond for signaling anchoring, restricted
maneuverability, not under command, grounded
b. Basic flag kit, including: A, B, C, N, O, Q, K, H
• Navigation equipment:
a. Magnetic compass with light
b. Hand-bearing compass
c. Fixed or mobile GPS with spare batteries
d. Depth finder
e. Marine binoculars
f. Radar reflector
g. Area maps, pilot book, navigational equipment
• Flashing waterproof flashlight (must be seen from a distance of at
least 100 meters)
• Signaling mirror
• Ladder
• Logbook

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13 Mandatory documents on a sailboat/motor vessel

Shore sailing documents (in Israeli waters)

Vessel documents:
• Sailing Capability License:
- certifies that the boat is technically capable of sailing
- must be renewed every 2 years for a private vessel and every year for a
commercial vessel
• Insurance: covers injury that might be caused to any person by the vessel
• Registration: includes owner’s name, vessel’s dimensions, engine details,
port of registration, and the flag under which it sails

Skipper documents:
• Israeli I.D. or passport
• Skipper’s license: license to sail the vessel

International sailing documents

• Radio license: given by Ministry of Communication that allows for operation
of radio station from the boat
• Life raft certificate: shows that life raft has been checked and approved by
the authorities

International sailing
Entering a foreign country:
1. Make sure to enter a formal international port/marina where a border
immigration check can be done (passport and customs).
2. Contact the marina’s administration, report estimated time of arrival, and
receive instructions.
3. After entering the port/marina, wait for the arrival of the customs
representative, a doctor from the ministry of health, and the border police.
Follow their orders!
4. Flags:
When entering a foreign country, the vessel must show the following flags:
• Starboard: host country’s flag

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• Port: Q flag (‘My vessel is healthy, require entrance approval.”), if

applicable!
• Stern: registration country’s flag

Returning to Israel:
1. Must be done according to IMOT procedure!
2. Report to Haifa Radio when 50 miles off shore.
3. Report to Israeli Navy when 27 miles off shore.
4. Make sure to enter a port with immigration and customs.

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14 Definitions and regulations

Definitions

1. Boat – any boat under 7 meters in length

Sailboat – a boat driven by sails only
Rowboat – a boat driven by paddles only
2. Ship – a vessel between 7-24m long with a displacement of less than
100 tons (except for a rowing vessel)
3. Vessel – a vessel longer than 24m, powered by engine
4. Coastal voyage – up to 12 miles offshore in Israel, different in
different countries
5. National voyage – up to 27 mi offshore in Israel, different in different
countries
6. International voyage – a voyage from one country to another,
including a voyage farther than 27 mi offshore in Israel
7. Sailing license requirements –
a. National voyage (license #30): minimum age of 19; required
documents – doctor approval of physical health, eye test, first aid
course certificate
b. International voyage (license #60): minimum age of 21; required
documents – sailing license #30 with one year of sailing
experience and 8 days of international sailing experience (sea
time) certificate
8. Skipper training ship document requirements – sailing license #40
(charter license), commercial insurance, sailing capability license
renewed every year

General definitions

Vessel

Not underway – Underway –

Anchored, made fast, or Not anchored, made fast,
aground or aground

Not making headway – Making headway –

Not moving Moving by sails, engine,
paddles, etc.

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Visibility conditions
• Good visibility: situation in which visibility is good and not restricted
• Restricted visibility: any situation in which visibility is restricted either by
fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, etc.

Coming into effect of law

• Regulations come into effect on all moving vessels.
• While following these regulations, attention must be paid to situations in
which you must overrule the regulations in order to avoid immediate danger.

Look out
Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout by sight and hearing as
well as by all available means appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and
conditions so as to make a full appraisal of the situation and of the risk of collision.

Safe speed
• Every vessel will move at a speed that will allow it to take efficient and
suitable action to avoid collision and stop at an appropriate distance.
• When determining the appropriate speed, consider visibility conditions,
traffic, vessel’s maneuverability, and sea conditions.

Marine collision
Every incident must be reported to the Ministry of Transportation.

Lifesaving at sea
The captain is required, when able and when the action does not endanger his
vessel or crew, to:
• help any person at sea in mortal danger.
• advance at the fastest possible speed in order to save the people in
distress, including deviating from route, if asked for help.
• when in a collision with another vessel…
- help the vessel and its crew
- if possible, inform the other captain of ship’s name, port of registration, and
next port of call.
• help if he/she sees any of the following distress signals:
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Distress signals
When the captain decides that he/she is in a distress situation, he is permitted to
use the following distress signals.
Note: It is forbidden to use these signals in any situation other than stress!
• gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about one minute
• continuous sound of any sound-signaling apparatus
• SOS signal in Morse code ( … ˗ ˗ ˗ … ) made by radiotelegraphy or by any
other signaling method
• ‘mayday’ signal sent by radiotelephone (VHF)
• international maritime signal flags N and C flown together to indicate
distress
• square flag with a ball (or anything resembling a ball) above or below it
• flames on the vessel (such as a burning tar barrel, oil barrel, etc.)
• parachute flare or hand flare with red light
• smoke signal with orange-colored smoke
• slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms stretched to each side
• activating the Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
• activating the Search and Rescue Transponder (S.A.R.T.)

Registration
An Israeli vessel must show its registration number on both sides of the bow, the life
raft, life ring, and all life jackets.

Restricted sailing areas

• 300 meters from the shoreline
• 50 meters off each side of a declared public beach and 300 meters from the
low tide shoreline
• 30 meters from the low tide shoreline (only for the purpose of entering or
exiting and at a maximum speed of 5 knots)
• diving areas (marked by diving flag A), restricted 200 meters from diving
point
• military firing practice areas

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15 Day sailing shapes

with fishing gear over

150m horizontally

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16 Code flags
Required Action Flag Meaning Letter
A
Keep clear 200m Divers in the water
(Amudai!)

B
Carrying dangerous
substances (Beware!)

H
(Help me enter
Pilot the port; I
Have a pilot
onboard)
1. Decrease speed
O
2. Increase lookout Man Overboard
3. Join the search (Overboard!)

C
The two flags Affirmative / Yes
(Si!)
together signal a
vessel in distress
N
Negative / No
(No!)

Q
My vessel is healthy,
(Quality
require approval for life
entrance
onboard)
K
(Kontact
Contact me
me)

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17 Navigation lights
Lights should be turned on from sunset to sunrise or in restricted visibility.
Vessels underway:

All-round lights - 360°

Colors: can be white, red, and green

Masthead Light

Sidelights - 112.5°, stern light - 135°

Colors:
Port side – red
Starboard side – green
Stern - white

Note: A vessel underway (NOT at anchor, moored, or aground) but not making
headway will turn OFF the sidelights apart from a powerboat or a sailboat.

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Masthead lights indicating length - 225°

Colors: white only
Less than 50 meters: single masthead light
Longer than 50m: two masthead lights

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Signal lights - 360°

Vessel Lights Mnemonic

White over red,

Pilot
pilot ahead

Towing vessel
(starboard)

Towing vessel
(stern)
Red over green,
Sailboat sailing machine
(optional sailboats >20m)

Red over white,

Fishing boat
fresh fish tonight

Green over white,

Trawler
trawling at night

Red When Restricted

Restricted in ability
to maneuver (Red, White, Red)

Red Rubbing Rocks

Constrained by
draft (Red, Red, Red)

Minesweeper

Not under Red, red, the

command captain is dead

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Light signal exceptions

The following vessels do not show masthead lights:
1. Pilot vessel
2. Sailboat (to distinguish them from powerboats)
3. Trawler >50m shows 1 masthead light
<50m shows no masthead lights
4. Vessel not under command
5. Fishing vessel with fishing gear extended >150m horizontally shows all-
round white light on the side of the fishing gear
6. Diving boat shows RAM (restricted in ability to maneuver) lights (red, white,
red)

The following vessels show a single white light:

1. Power-driven vessel all lengths (from stern)
2. Sailboat (from stern)
3. Power-driven vessel <7m whose max speed does not exceed 7 knots
4. Vessel at anchor <50m
5. Masthead lights from afar (can be seen before sidelights)

Vessels not underway:

Anchored
<50m, sailboat <50m, power-driven

>50m vessel (fore light is higher than aft light)

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17.1 Navigation Lights PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Questions refer to a motorized vessel, unless otherwise indicated. Choose the BEST
answer.

1. You are sailing in a sailboat on a foggy day with limited visibility. What
should you do?
a. turn on navigation lights with effective sound signals
b. turn on navigation light at sunset
c. blast only sound signals
d. light a yellow flashing light together with a foghorn

2. What is the vessel depicted in picture 50?

a. an anchored vessel over 50m, starboard side
b. a motorized vessel under 50m, port side
c. a motorized vessel over 50m, port side
d. a vessel towing, over 50m, port side

3. What is the vessel depicted in picture 4?

a. a vessel not under command, stern
b. a motorized vessel under 50m, port side
c. a pilot vessel not under way
d. a fishing vessel under way

4. What is the vessel depicted in picture 40?

a. a vessel with restricted maneuverability due to draft, bow
b. a vessel not under command, bow
c. a pilot vessel, bow
d. a sailboat over 20 meters, bow

5. What is the vessel depicted in picture 44?

a. a fishing vessel, going from right to left
b. a motorized vessel, coming towards me
c. a sailboat, going from left to right
d. none of the above

6. What is the vessel depicted in picture 28?

a. a pilot vessel, going from left to right
b. a trawling vessel, stern
c. a fishing vessel over 50m underway
d. a vessel with restricted maneuverability due to sea work, stern

7. What is the vessel depicted in picture 39?

a. a vessel not under command over 50m
b. a vessel not under command anchored
c. a fishing vessel with a net over 150m

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d. a grounded vessel

8. What is the vessel depicted in picture 4?

a. a pilot vessel, starboard side
b. a pilot vessel, port side
c. a fishing vessel, port side
d. a fishing vessel, starboard side

9. What is the vessel depicted in picture 5?

a. an anchored vessel under 50m
b. a sailboat, stern
c. a motorized vessel, stern
d. all of the above

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18 Markings
Port / marina entrance
A port or marina entrance will be clearly marked so that all vessels can enter safely.

Nighttime Daytime
Starboard side: flashing green light Starboard side: green buoy
Port side: flashing red light Port side: red buoy

Isolated dangerous
Wreck marking buoy
position marking buoy

Dangerous area marking

buoys

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19 Sound Signals
Required sound-producing devices:

• Vessel <12m – at least 1 sound-making device

• Vessel >12m – horn

• Vessel >100m – horn and gong

Motor vessel underway Turning right

Motor vessel not underway Turning left

Not under command, restricted Sailing backwards

in ability to maneuver, fishing,
sailboat, towing vessel Intend to overtake
from starboard
Vessel being towed Intend to overtake
from port
Confirmation of
overtake
All sound blasts should be Your intentions are
made at intervals of not more unclear
than 2 minutes

At anchor (<100m) Short blast = 1-2 second duration

At anchor (>100m)
Long blast = 1-2 sec duration

Aground (<100m)
Bell ring = 5 sec duration
Aground (>100m)
3 isolated gongs
 at stern
All sound signals should be made at Gong = 5 sec duration
intervals of not more than 1 minute
Note:

• It is forbidden to use good visibility sounds when visibility is restricted.

• Day horns are optional according the skipper’s judgment.

• Vessels under 12m are not required to carry specific sound-making equipment.

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19.1 Sound Signals PRACTICE QUESTIONS

1. What is a restricted visibility situation?
a. nighttime, when it is difficult to see vessels at sea and only navigation lights
are visible
b. whenever visibility is restricted due to fog, mist, snow, a rain or sand storm, or
any other reason
c. when a vessel is unable to see an approaching vessel due to an obstacle,
such as at the entrance to a port where the breakwater blocks your view
d. all of the above

2. What does a restricted visibility situation require you to do?

a. It is forbidden to sail in a restricted visibility situation.
b. Sail slower at a safe speed, and maintain an attentive lookout for light and
sound signals.
c. Turn on navigation lights during the day and blast identification sound signals.
d. all of the above

3. While you are sailing in a restricted visibility situation, you hear the
following blast: ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ . What could this vessel be?
a. a powerboat underway
b. a powerboat not underway
c. a sailboat
d. a vessel with restricted maneuverability due to draft or sea work

4. While you are sailing in a restricted visibility situation, you hear the
following blast: ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ • •. What could this vessel be?
a. a sailboat
b. a vessel with restricted maneuverability due to draft sea work
c. one vessel towing another
d. all of the above

5. While you are sailing in a constricted channel, you hear the following blast:
̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ • •. What could this vessel be?
a. a vessel aground
b. a vessel planning to pass to starboard
c. a vessel planning to pass to port
d. a sailboat in a restricted visibility situation

6. While you are sailing at the entrance to a port, you hear the following blast:
• • • • • . What does this mean?
a. a vessel moving astern
b. someone fell asleep on the horn
c. your intentions are not clear
d. a vessel in distress

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7. While you are sailing in fog, you hear the following blasts: ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ • • in front
of you, followed immediately by: ̶ ̶ ̶ • • • . What do the blasts mean?
a. a motored vessel is stopped and no longer making way
b. one vessel towing another
c. an operating dredger
d. a vessel not under command

8. You are sailing in a narrow canal, and in your vicinity are two boats. You
hear ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ ̶ • • ). What do the blasts mean?
a. I am turning right and stopping.
b. I am about to pass you on the left.
c. I am about to pass you on the right.
d. Your intentions are not clear.

9. In bad visibility, you hear two long blasts every two minutes. What do they
mean?
a. A vessel is turning left.
b. A vessel is about to pass on the right.
c. Look out, vessel with limited maneuverability.
d. Motor vessel not making way.

10. You are sailing in strong rain and can barely see the bow. You sound one
long horn blast, and then stop the engine. You then blast two long horn
blasts every 2 minutes. Suddenly you hear one long horn blast, but you
can’t see the other vessel. You back up and sound 3 short horn blasts.
What did you do wrong?
a. You left 2 minutes between each horn blast rather than one.
b. You were sounding the signals of a ship, but you are on a boat.
c. You were sounding 3 short horns, but that doesn’t mean “I’m backing up”.
d. You were sounding 3 short horns when you couldn’t see the other vessel.

11. You are on vessel I. Vessel A is approaching on your stern, sounding the
audible signal described in picture 63. What is the vessel doing?
a. overtaking me on my port side
b. overtaking me on my starboard side
c. moving astern
d. signaling that my intentions are not clear

12. What vessel sounds the audible signal described in picture 69?
a. a motorized vessel under way in fog
b. a motorized vessel not under way in fog
c. a vessel turning to its port not in fog
d. a sailboat in fog

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20 Rules of the road

Risk of collision
A collision risk exists if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does
not change appreciably and the distance is shortening.
• Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions to determine if risk of collision exists. If there
is any doubt, such risk shall be deemed to exist. (Handbook of the Nautical
Rules of the Road)

Actions to avoid collision:

1. Any alteration of the course and/or speed to avoid collision shall, if circumstances
allow, be large enough to be immediately evident to another vessel observing
visually or by radar.
2. The give-way vessel will avoid crossing the stand-on vessel’s bow.
3. The stand-on vessel must continue on its current course and speed.

Rule I: Overtaking
When a boat overtakes another boat, the overtaking boat is the give-way
vessel.

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Rule II: Right of way hierarchy

Vessels will give way according to their maneuvering ability.
1. Vessels not under command, vessels unable to maneuver

2. Vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver (due to work or draft)

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3. Vessels engaged in fishing (includes trawlers)

4. Sailing vessels (under sail), rowing vessels (under oar)

5. Power-driven vessels (towing boat, pilot, jet ski, etc.)

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Examples:

Restricted
maneuverability Fishing vessel Sailing vessel Motor vessel
vessel

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Rule III: Right of way under power

You stand on

Head-on situation: both turn to starboard

Head-on situation

Crossing situation: give-way vessel is the one to port

Crossing situation

*After overtaking vessel has passed, overtaken vessel does NOT have to yield.

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Rule IV: Right of way under sail

For the purpose of the rule, the windward side is the side opposite to that on which
the mainsail is carried.

Different tacks: starboard tack has right of way

wind

When both are on the same tack: leeward vessel has right of way

wind

When vessel on port tack spots windward boat with undetermined tack: vessel
on port tack gives way

wind

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Rule V: Narrow channels and traffic separation zones

Small boats give way to big ships.
Ships, ferryboats, tugs, and other large vessels are the stand-on vessels in tight
channels and traffic lanes. Small boats, boats engaged in fishing, and sailboats
must give way in order to allow the ship to continue in deep water and on a direct
course.

Narrow channel Port entrance

B
B

Narrow channel

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8 Right of way PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Questions refer to a motorized vessel, unless otherwise indicated. Choose the BEST
answer.

1. While sailing in a motor vessel, who should you give way to?
a. vessel not under command
b. pilot
c. vessel with more than 40,000 ton load
d. towing vessel, when the towing line is longer than 200 meters

2. What does the give-way vessel do?

a. alter course
b. alter speed
c. alter course and speed
d. all of the above

3. What does the stand-on vessel do?

a. continue on current course
b. continue at current speed
c. continue on current course at current speed
d. none of the above

4. You are on vessel C displaying the lights shown in picture 11, on a

collision course with vessel O displaying the configuration depicted in
picture 51. What is the required action?
a. A restricted vessel yields to a sailboat. I will alter my course to starboard.
b. A motorized vessel yields to a restricted vessel. I will continue on my course
at my current speed.
c. Two motorized vessels; the one that sees the other on the starboard side
yields. I will alter my course to starboard.
d. A sailboat under power yields to a vessel in tow longer than 200 meters. I will
continue on my course at my current speed.

5. You are on vessel O displaying the lights shown in picture 11, on a

collision course with vessel C displaying the lights shown in picture 48.
What is the required action?
a. A motorized vessel yields to a fishing boat. I will alter my course to the
portside.
b. Two restricted vessels. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
c. A motorized vessel yields to a restricted due to draft vessel. I will continue on
my course at my current speed.
d. Two restricted vessels. I will alter my course to portside.

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6. You are on vessel M displaying the lights shown in picture 1, on a collision

course with vessel E displaying the lights shown in picture 34. What is the
required action?
a. A restricted vessel due to sea work yields to a motorized vessel. I will alter
my course to starboard.
b. Overtaking situation. I will alter my course to starboard.
c. A motorized vessel yields to a vessel restricted due to draft. I will continue on
my course at my current speed.
d. A restricted vessel yields to a vessel not under command. I will alter my
course to portside.

7. You are on vessel F displaying the lights shown in picture 40, on a collision
course with vessel N displaying the lights shown in picture 45. What is the
required action?
a. Two motorized vessels meeting head-on. I will alter my course to starboard.
b. A sailboat yields to a vessel not under command. I will continue on my
course at my current speed.
c. A fishing vessel yields to a trawling vessel. I will continue on my course at
my current speed.
d. A restricted vessel yields to a vessel not under command. I will alter my
course to portside.

8. You are on vessel A, on a collision course with vessel D displaying the

configuration in picture 65. What is the required action?
a. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. I must yield because it has a long tow that restricts it.
c. I must yield because it is on a port tack.
d. I wait and see what happens.

9. You are on vessel G, on a collision course with vessel C. What is the

required action?
a. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. I must yield because I see it on my starboard.
c. It yields to me because I see it on my starboard. I will continue on my course
at my current speed.
d. I must yield because it is on my port side.

10. You are on vessel N, on a collision course with vessel A displaying the
configuration in picture 51. What is the required action?
a. It is a sailboat. I must yield.
b. A sailboat yields to a motorized one. I will continue on my course at my
current speed.
c. “The one who sees on his starboard yields” applies between two motorized
vessels. It yields to me, and I will continue on my course at my current speed.
d. I must yield in any case.

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11. You are on vessel I and see on your stern vessel A displaying the lights
shown in picture 10.
a. A danger exists because it is astern and on the same course.
b. There is no danger because I am faster.
c. A danger exists only if the distance decreases.
d. There is no danger.

12. You are on sailboat F on a port tack and see on your starboard the lights
shown in picture 23. What is the required action?
a. I see it on my starboard. I must yield.
b. It yields to me. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
c. The vessel to windward yields. I must yield.
d. The vessel on port tack yields. I must yield.

13. You are on vessel I and see on your stern vessel A displaying the
configurations in pictures 54 + 65. What is the required action?
a. It is restricted. I must yield.
b. It is tugging ‘above 200’. I must yield.
c. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
d. A motorized vessel always yields to a restricted one.

14. You are on vessel K and see vessel B displaying the lights shown in
picture 19 on your bow. What is the required action?
a. It yields to me. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. A minesweeper yields to a motorized vessel. I must yield.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. A motorized vessel yields to a minesweeper. I must yield.

15. You are on sailboat O on a port tack, beam reach. You are on a collision
course with sailboat N, on a port tack, which is sailing on your starboard.
What is the required action?
a. It yields to me. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. It is on the opposite tack. It yields to me, I will continue on my course at my
current speed.
c. I am to windward. It yields to me, I will continue on my course at my current
speed.
d. I see it on my starboard. I must yield.

16. You are on sailboat L and see vessel D displaying the configuration shown
in picture 53 on your bow. What is the required action?
a. D yields to L.
b. L yields to D.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. L yields to D. A sailboat yields to a restricted vessel.

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17. You are on sailboat N, on a collision course with vessel A displaying the
lights in picture 46. What is the required action?
a. N yields to A.
b. A yields to N.
c. N yields to a vessel restricted by its tow.
d. None of the above.

18. You are on vessel J and see vessel C displaying the configuration shown in
picture 57 on your bow. What is the required action?
a. As a motorized vessel, I must yield to a vessel not under command.
b. It yields to me.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. I maintain my course.

19. You are on vessel P and see vessel H displaying the configuration shown
in picture 55 on your bow. What is the required action?
a. I must yield to a minesweeper.
b. It is a vessel restricted with equipment on its starboard side. I turn to
starboard.
c. It is a vessel restricted with equipment on its port side. I turn to port.
d. Each yields to starboard.

20. You are on vessel G and see on your stern vessel K displaying the lights
shown in picture 14. What is the required action?
a. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. I turn to port. A motorized vessel yields to a trawling vessel.
c. It yields to me. I am on his starboard.
d. I must yield to a sailboat.

21. You are on sailboat N on a port tack, beam reach. You are on a collision
course with sailboat F. What is the required action?
a. I must yield.
b. It yields to me.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. I see it on my starboard. I must yield.

22. You are on vessel B. On your bow is vessel J flying the flag depicted in
picture 74. What is it signaling, and what is the required action?
a. It is a vessel in distress. I should approach and assist.
b. It has a MOB. I should join the search.
c. It is a vessel lowering divers. I must keep at least 200m away.
d. It is a vessel lowering divers. I must keep at least 300m away.

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23. You are on vessel K. Vessel G is sounding the signal depicted in picture 61.
What is it signaling, and what is the required action?
a. I must yield.
b. I will continue on my course at my current speed. There is no danger of
collision.
c. It is signaling for me to approach him.
d. It yields to me.

24. You are on vessel P and see vessel H displaying the lights shown in picture
34. What is the required action?
a. A motorized vessel yields to a restricted one.
b. I must yield, for I am overtaking.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. It yields to me.

25. You are in Eilat Bay on sailboat D. Vessel J, a tanker, is approaching from
your port. What is the required action?
a. It yields to me.
b. A motorized vessel always yields to a sailboat.
c. I must yield, as a small vessel to a large one in a narrow waterway.
d. It sees me on its starboard. It yields to me.

26. You are on sailboat N on a port tack. On your bow is vessel F, flying the
flags depicted in pictures 73 + 74. What is it signaling, and what is the
required action?
a. It is a vessel lowering divers. I must keep at least 200m away.
b. It is a race officer’s vessel.
c. It is a vessel in distress. I approach and assist.
d. It is a pilot ship.

27. You are on sailboat B, displaying the configuration shown in picture 51, on
a collision course with vessel N, displaying the configuration depicted in
pictures 65 + 54. What is the required action?
a. I see it on my starboard. I must yield.
b. I must yield, as a motorized vessel yields to a restricted vessel.
c. I must yield, as a sailing vessel yields to a restricted vessel.
d. It yields to me.

28. You are on sailboat M, on a port tack, on a collision course with vessel A
displaying the lights shown in picture 3. What is the required action?
a. I must yield.
b. It yields to me.
c. There is no danger of collision.
d. None of the above.

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29. You are on vessel C displaying the lights shown in picture 30, on a
collision course with vessel F displaying the lights shown in picture 14.
What is the required action?
a. It yields to me.
b. I must yield.
c. There is no danger of collision.
d. It is an anchored vessel.

30. You are on vessel H displaying the lights shown in picture 16. Vessel P is
approaching on your bow displaying the lights shown in picture 24. What is
the required action?
a. It is a restricted vessel. I must yield.
b. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. I am overtaking. I must yield.

31. You are on sailboat B. You see vessel M displaying the configuration
shown in picture 60. What is the vessel, and what is the required action?
a. It is a vessel not under command. I must yield.
b. It is a restricted vessel. I must yield.
c. It is a grounded vessel. There is no danger of collision.
d. It is a vessel engaged in towing. It must yield to me, a sailboat.

32. You are on vessel K. You see vessel D flying the flag shown in picture 75.
What is the required action?
a. It yields to me.
b. I must yield.
c. It is a vessel in distress.
d. It is a vessel with a MOB. I approach carefully and assist.

33. You are on sailboat D. On your bow is vessel L, flying the flag depicted in
picture 73. What is the required action?
a. It yields to me.
b. I must yield.
c. Each yields to starboard.
d. None of the above.

34. You are on vessel K displaying the lights shown in picture 12. You see
vessel G displaying the lights shown in picture 21. What is the required
action?
a. I must yield.
b. It yields to me.
c. There is no danger of collision.
d. It is an anchored vessel. I continue on my course.

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35. You are on vessel D displaying the lights shown in picture 10. You see
vessel H displaying the lights shown in picture 1. What is the required
action?
a. I must yield. He is anchored.
b. It yields to me. The right of way goes to the vessel from starboard.
c. There is no danger of collision.
d. I must yield. It is a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver due to draft.

36. You are on vessel G displaying the configuration shown in picture 53, on a
collision course with vessel A displaying the configuration shown in
picture 65. What is the required action?
a. It is an anchored vessel. There is no danger of collision.
b. It is a vessel restricted in its maneuverability. I must yield.
c. I am a vessel restricted by my draft. It must yield to me.
d. I am a vessel not under command. It must yield to me.

37. You are on sailboat O reaching on a port tack, on a collision course with
sailboat N. What is the required action?
a. I am the windward vessel. It yields to me.
b. It is on the opposite tack. It yields to me.
c. I am the windward vessel. I must yield.
d. I see him on my starboard side. I must yield.

38. You are on vessel B. Vessel J displays the lights shown in picture 22, and
approaches from your bow. What is the required action?
a. I yield to starboard.
b. I yield to port.
c. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
d. It is moving away from me. There is no danger of collision.

39. You are on vessel N displaying the configuration shown in picture 53.
Vessel F displaying the configuration shown in picture 56 approaches from
your bow. What is the required action?
a. A motorized vessel yields to a fishing vessel.
b. I am a fishing vessel. It must yield to me.
c. It is a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver due to draft. I must yield.
d. Each yields to starboard.

40. You are on sailboat K. Vessel C displaying the lights shown in picture 40
approaches from your bow. What is the vessel and what is the required
action?
a. It is a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver due to draft. I must yield.
b. It is a fishing vessel. I must yield.
c. It is a vessel not under command. I must yield.
d. Each yields to starboard.

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41. You are on vessel E. Vessel M displaying the lights shown in picture 22
approaches from your bow. What is the vessel and what is the required
action?
a. It is a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver. I must yield.
b. It is a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver towing another vessel. I must
yield.
c. It is the overtaking vessel. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
d. It is towing another vessel. It continues on its course at its current speed.

42. You are on vessel A. You are approaching vessel I displaying the lights
shown in picture 15. What is the vessel and what is the required action?
a. It is towing another vessel. I must yield.
b. I am a motorized vessel. It must yield to me.
c. I am the overtaking vessel. I must yield.
d. I am a faster motorized vessel. It must yield to me.

43. You are on sailboat B on a port tack. You see sailboat D on an unknown
tack. What is the required action?
a. I will continue on my course at my current speed.
b. I will try to contact the vessel to find out her present tack.
c. I must yield.
d. I yield only if I can determine that the vessel is on a starboard tack.

44. You are on sloop O on a broad reach on a starboard tack. You see ketch M
with its main sail to port. What is the required action?
a. The other vessel is on my starboard side. I will yield.
b. The other vessel is on my leeward side. I will yield.
c. The other vessel’s main is on its port side. It must yield.
d. Both vessels are on a starboard tack, and the other vessel is windward. It
must yield.

45. You are approaching a marina on vessel H. You see vessel M on your left
exiting the marina. What is the required action?
a. The other vessel is exiting the marina. It must yield.
b. The other vessel sees me on his starboard side. It must yield.
c. The other vessel is exiting a water canal. I must yield.
d. A boat gives way to a ship. I must yield.

46. You are on sailboat C on a broad reach on a starboard tack. You are on a
collision course with sloop A with the jib to port and the main sail to
starboard. What is the required action?
a. The other vessel is on a port tack. It will yield.
b. There is no danger of collision.
c. The other vessel is windward. It must yield.

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d. We are both on the same tack, and I am windward. I will yield.

47. You are on a vessel displaying the lights shown in picture 24. On your
portside, a vessel is approaching displaying the lights shown in picture 48.
What is the required action?
a. A motorized vessel yields to a restricted vessel. I will yield to starboard.
b. There is no danger of collision. I will continue on my course at my current
speed.
c. Two restricted vessels, the one that sees the other on their starboard side
yields. I will yield to starboard.
d. A restricted vessel due to sea work yields to a vessel in tow. I will yield to
starboard.

48. You are on a vessel and see the lights shown in picture 31 on your bow.
What is the vessel and what is the required action?
a. It is a sunken vessel. I will yield to starboard.
b. It is a speedboat that sees me on its starboard side. It yields to me.
c. It is a sailboat sailing to the right. I must yield to starboard.
d. It is a towed vessel, I must yield.

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20.2 Seamanship ANSWERS

1 Sailing Terms
1. B
2. B
3. C
4. B
5. A

2 Sailing Equipment
1. D
2. A
3. A
4. C
5. D
6. D

3 Sailing Tactics
1. A
2. B
3. B
4. B
5. A
6. B
7. A
8. D
9. C
10. B
11. D
12. B
13. B
14. C

4 Meteorology
1. A
2. B
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3. B
4. C
5. C
6. C
7. C
8. B
9. D

5 Emergencies
1. A
2. B
3. C
4. B
5. A
6. B
7. C
8. D
9. D
10. B
11. A
12. C
13. D
14. C
15. A
16. C
17. C
18. D

6 Navigation Lights
1. A
2. C
3. D
4. B
5. D
6. B

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7. D
8. C
9. D

7 Sound Signals
1. D
2. D
3. A
4. D
5. C
6. C
7. B
8. B
9. D
10. D
11. B
12. B

8 Right of Way
1. A
2. C
3. C
4. B
5. B
6. B
7. B
8. A
9. B
10. C
11. C
12. C
13. C
14. B
15. C
16. B

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17. B
18. A
19. B
20. B
21. A
22. C
23. B
24. C
25. C
26. C
27. B
28. B
29. B
30. C
31. C
32. D
33. A
34. A
35. D
36. C
37. C
38. B
39. C
40. C
41. C
42. C
43. C
44. D
45. C
46. A
47. B
48. C

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20.3 Vessel Identification

1. vessel restricted due to draft, under 50m, starboard side
2. sailboat, port side
3. towing vessel and vessel being towed (vessel under power), under 50m, length of
line under 200m, starboard side
4. fishing vessel, under 50m, port side (exception: when no masthead light is presented
= under 50m)
5. Possible options: sailing vessel or vessel under power, stern side
vessel at anchor, under 50m
vessel under 7m traveling at a speed slower than 7kn
rowing vessel
6. vessel not under command, stern side
7. mine sweeper (restricted vessel), under 50m, port side
8. vessel restricted due to towing, under 50m, length of tow line over 200m, port side
9. pilot vessel (vessel under power), stern side
10. sailing vessel, bow side
11. vessel restricted due to marine works, obstacle on starboard side, under 50m, port
side
12. vessel under power, over 50m, starboard side
13. sailing vessel, stern side
14. trawler (fishing vessel), under 50m, starboard side
15. towing vessel + towed vessel (vessel under power), stern side
16. towing vessel + towed vessel (vessel under power, length of towing vessel under
50m, length of tow line under 200m, bow side
17. fishing vessel, under 50m, starboard side
18. pilot vessel (vessel under power), port side
19. mine sweeper (restricted vessel), over 50m, bow side
20. vessel not under command, port side
21. vessel restricted due to draft, over 50m, port side
22. vessel restricted due to marine works, obstacle on port side, under 50m, bow side
23. sailing vessel, port side
24. towing vessel + towed vessel (vessel under power), over 50m, length of tow line
under 200m OR length of vessel under 50 m, length of tow line over 200m, bow side
25. vessel under power, under 50m, starboard side

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26. hovercraft / hydrofoil / submarine (vessel sailing without displacement), under 50m,
port side
27. fishing vessel, stern side
28. trawler, stern side
29. mine sweeper (restricted vessel), under 50m, starboard side
30. pilot vessel (vessel under power), bow side
31. sailing vessel, starboard side
32. vessel restricted due to draft, stern side
33. vessel not under command, starboard side
34. vessel under power, under 50m, bow side
35. vessel restricted due to marine works, obstacle on starboard side, stern side
36. vessel under power, under 50m, bow side OR towing vessel, under 50m, length of
tow under 200m
37. sailing vessel, starboard side
38. vessel restricted due to marine works, under 50m, port side
39. vessel aground, over 50m, port side
40. vessel not under command, bow side
41. trawler (fishing vessel), under 50m, port side
42. mine sweeper (restricted vessel), stern side
43. pilot vessel (vessel under power), starboard side
44. restricted vessel due to marine works, stern side
45. sailing vessel, bow side
46. towing vessel + towed vessel (vessel under power), length of towing vessel under
50m, length of tow line over 200m, starboard side
47. trawler (fishing vessel), under 50m, bow side
48. vessel restricted due to marine works, obstacle on starboard side, under 50m,
starboard side
49. fishing vessel, bow side
50. vessel under power, over 50m, port side
51. sailing vessel under power (= vessel under power)
52. fishing vessel under 20m
53. fishing vessel / trawler
54. vessel restricted due to marine works
55. vessel restricted due to marine works, obstacle on spheres side (passing allowed on
rhombus side)
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56. vessel restricted due to draft

57. vessel not under command
58. mine sweeper (restricted vessel)
59. vessel at anchor
60. vessel aground
61. in good visibility, moving backwards (not required)
62. in poor visibility, sailing vessel / fishing vessel / restricted vessel / vessel not under
command / towing vessel, under way (making way and not making way)
63. in good visibility, intending to overtake from starboard side (not required)
64. in good visibility, allowing overtake from either side (not required)
65. towing vessel (vessel under power), length of tow over 200m (no day sign for length
of tow under 200m)
66. in poor visibility, vessel being towed
67. in good visibility, intending to overtake from port side (not required)
68. in good visibility, “your intentions are unclear”
69. in poor visibility, vessel under power, under way but not making headway
70. in poor visibility, vessel under power, under way making headway
71. C flag = yes
72. N flag = no
73. handling hazardous materials (vessel under power)
74. A flag = vessel with divers

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