Page 30 - Collision Avoidance Rules Guide

(b) This definition is precisely the same as Rule l(c)(iii) of the 1960
Rules. It will be apparent from the context of the Rules that a vessel
propelled by machinery which is ‘not under command’ or ‘restricted
in her ability to manoeuvre’ or ‘engaged in fishing’ is not always to
be regarded as a ‘power-driven vessel’. For instance a power-driven
vessel engaged in trawling must not show the two masthead lights
specified by Rule 23, nor give the sound signals prescribed in Rule
35(a) and (b), and is not required to keep out of the way of a sailing
vessel or a ‘power-driven vessel’ on her starboard side which is
crossing so as to involve risk of collision. However, all power-driven
vessels, including hampered vessels, would probably be expected to
have their engines ready for immediate manaeuvre in restricted visi-
bility (Rule 19(b)) and to alter course to starboard when meeting a
power-driven vessel of the same category end-on (Rule 14).
(c) The new definition of a sailing vessel has the same meaning as
Rule 1 (c)(iv) of the 1960 Regulations but is expressed more concisely.
(d) This is an enlarged version of the definition given in Rule 1 of the
1960 Rules. The important phrase ‘which restrict manaeuvrability’
has been added to make it clear that small vessels such as pleasure
craft fishing with a few short lines or other small gear which does not
appreciably affect their ability to manaeuvre are not entitled to the
degree of privilege allocated to vessels engaged in fishing by Rule 18
and must not show the lights and shapes prescribed in Rule 26.
(e) This definition is similar to that given in Rule I(c) of the 1960
Regulations. Non-displacement craft are not to be considered as
seaplanes for the purpose of Rule 18(e).
(f) The term ‘vessel not under command’ was used in Rule 4 of the
1960 and previous Regulations. This new definition is an attempt to
clarify the term as vessels not under command are now included as a
special category in Rule 18, which specifies relative responsibilities
for keeping out of the way.
Some vessels that have been considered ‘not under command’
under previous regulations will now be excluded from this category
as the definition includes the phrase ‘which through some excep-
tional circumstances’. Vessels engaged in difficult towing operations
and other vessels which from the nature of their work are unable
to manmuvre as required by the Rules are now to be considered as
‘vessels restricted in their ability to mancleuvre’. Such vessels are
11