PATH: Boat Building & Refitting » Statutes & Standards » Gov Reg » USA »
PATH: Marine Laws & Regulations » Admiralty Law » International Treaties »
PATH: Marine Laws & Regulations » Admiralty Law » Laws: Countries by Regions »
PATH: Marine Laws & Regulations » Admiralty Law » Laws: Countries by Regions » USA »

---

USCG NAVIGATION RULES AND REGULATIONS HANDBOOK 2014 (COLREGS)

This handbook (ISBN: 9780160925665), which supersedes Commandant Instruction 16772.2D, Navigation Rules: International-Inland, is a compendium, produced by the U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Standards Branch, U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters, Washington, DC, of the:

• International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS);
• Inland Navigation Rules (33 CFR 83);
• their respective technical annexes (33 CFR 84-90);
• COLREGS Demarcation Lines (33 CFR 80);
• Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Regulations, (33 CFR 26);
• Vessel Traffic Management Regulations (33 CFR 161); and,
• various other pertinent provisions of the U.S. Code and Code of Federal Regulations regarding compliance and penalties associated with the Navigation Rules

⇓

2019

Click Here to view the full PDF version of USCG COLREGS NavRules from NOAA website
OR see them online at USCG
OR from EAB Archive

NAVRULES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Where can I get a copy of the Navigation Rules? A free electronic copy of the Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (ISBN: 9780160925665) is available here. The government printed version is listed at the U.S. Government Bookstore, call Telephone: 202-512-1800 or email ContactCenter#gpo.gov for further information. Commercial facsimiles are also available (e.g. Paradise Cay, Maryland Nautical), but, the Coast Guard does not attest to their veracity.

DOD activities and federal agencies may submit electronic orders for the Handbook (i.e. on the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency’s (NGA) Marine Safety-Digital Nautical Publication Quarterly CD-ROM Update) via Military/Federal Standard Requisitioning and Issue Procedures (MILSTRIP/FEDSTRIP, National Stock No. 7644015310779, NGA Ref. No. CDPUBQTLY). For further information, contact the Defense Logistics Agency at 800-826-0342 or 804-279-6500; DSN 695-6500; fax 804-279-6524.
The Handbook’s predecessor, Commandant Instruction M16672.2D, NAVIGATION RULES: International-Inland (ISBN: 9780160500572) can also be downloaded here: as published (3/25/99), its corrigendum, corrigendum with reference sources, or itslast corrected version (7/1/13).

2. Have there been any changes to Navigation Rules? Yes. The changes are available here.

3. What “vessels” are required to comply with the Navigation Rules? In Rule 3 the word vessel includes every description of watercraft, including non-displacement craft, WIG craft, and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.
Courts have interpreted transportation to not just include passengers, but also goods or services. The Navigation Rules address vessels, not whom/what is controlling them.

4. Am I required to carry a copy of the Inland Rules? Per 33 CFR 83.01(g), the operator of each self-propelled vessel 12 meters or more in length shall carry, on board and maintain for ready reference, a copy of the Rules.
Which publications can I carry electronically?
Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular No. 01-16 announced the following electronic publications are acceptable:

• U.S. Coast Pilot,
• Sailing Directions,
• Coast Guard Light List,
• List of Lights,
• tide-current and river-current tables,
• Notice to Mariners,
• Local Notice to Mariners,
• Notices to Navigation, and
• Vessel Traffic Services Rules.

Paper copies of certain publications are still required, including those not specifically listed in NVIC 01-16. Some examples are:

• Inland Rules (domestic regulation),
• International Code of Signals and Volume (SOLAS requirement), and
• Volume III of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (SOLAS requirement)

These publications are required in hard-copy because meeting the access and “ready reference” requirements may be challenging for many electronic devices.

5. Who has the “right of way” on the water? The Navigation Rules convey a right-of-way only in one particular circumstance: topower-driven vessels proceeding downbound with a following current in narrow channels or fairways of the Great Lakes , Western Rivers, or other waters specified by regulation (Inland Rule 9(a)(ii)). Otherwise, power-driven vessels are to keep out of the way (Rule 18) and either give-way (Rule 16) or stand-on (Rule 17) to vessels not under command or restricted in their ability to maneuver,sailing vessels or vessels engaged in fishing, and, similarly vessels should avoid impeding the safe passage of a vesselconstrained by her draft (Rule 18), navigating a narrow channel (Rule 9) or traffic separation scheme (Rule 10). The Rules do not grant privileges they impose responsibilities and require precaution under all conditions and circumstances; no Rule exonerates any vessel from the consequences of neglect (Rule 2). Neglect, among other things, could be not maintaining a proper look-out (Rule 5), use of improper speed (Rule 6), not taking the appropriate actions to determine and avoid collision (Rule 7 & 8) or completely ignoring your responsibilities under the Rules.
Note, a power driven vessel means any vessel propelled by machinery; regardless of the machinery being used or not.

6. Rules 24(a-d) — lights on power-driven vessels– confuse me: The intent of Rule 24 is to state that the towing identification lights on a power driven vessel when towing may be carried in either the location of the forward masthead light or the after masthead light if carried. Rules 24(a) and 24(c) concern the description of the towing identification lights and where they shall be carried. Rule 24 (d) refers to Rule 23(a) which concerns the requirement for the masthead light(s).

7. What is the safe speed or passing distance for vessels? The Navigation Rules -appropriately so- do not define a distinct safe speed or passing distance. According to Rule 16 – Action to Give-way when crossing, meeting, or overtaking another vessel, other than, as the give-way vessel, you are to keep well clear. Similarly, the distance a vessel may be required to take action to avoid collision, will vary, however it should be in accordance with Rule 6 – Safe Speed and Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision. These rules which state, amongst other things, that any alteration of course or speed shall be large enough to be readily apparent to another vessel and taken early enough to allow sufficient sea room for the safe passage of the other vessel and at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.

8. What is a special flashing light? View the Arcs of Visibility page for an explanation of a special flashing light.

9. Who specifies whether a waterway is a Narrow Channel and therefore Rule 9 is applicable? A waterway is deemed a narrow channel by the practical and traditional uses of that waterway (usually a court determination) or it can be specified by the Secretary in33 CFR 89.25.
Note, Rule 9 differs between the International and Inland sections.
Rule 9 Inland Rules: (a) A power-driven vessel traveling downbound with a following current shall have the right-of-way over an upbound vessel in the Great Lakes , Western Rivers , and those waters specified by the Secretary.
Rule 9 International Rules: (f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a narrow channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall navigate with particular alertness and caution and shall sound the appropriate signal prescribed in Rule 34(e).

10. What are the regulations concerning wake effects, wake damage, and responsibility? Regarding one’s wake, vessels over 1600 Gross Tons (GT) are specifically required by Title 33 CFR 164.11 to set the vessel’s speed with consideration for…the damage that might be caused by the vessel’s wake. Further, there may be State or local laws which specifically address “wake” for the waters in question.
While vessels under 1600 GT are not specifically required to manage their speed in regards to wake, they are still required to operate in a prudent matter which does not endanger life, limb, or property (46 USC 2302). Nor do the Navigation Rules exonerate any vessel from the consequences of neglect (Rule 2), which, among other things, could be unsafe speeds (Rule 6), improper lookout (Rule 5), or completely ignoring your responsibilities as prescribed by the Navigation Rules.
As to whether or not a particular vessel is responsible for the damage it creates is a question of law and fact that is best left to the Courts. For more information, contact your local Marine Patrol or State Boating Law Administrator.

11. Am I required to have Radar? Radar is not required on vessels under 1600 GT (33 CFR 164.35), however, Rule 7 states thatproper use shall be made of radar equipment if fitted and operational. In other words, whoever has one must use it. The Navigation Rules are not meant to discourage the use of any device, rather they expect prudent mariners to avail themselves of all available means appropriate…as to make full appraisal of the situation (Rule 5), e.g. the use of radar. At issue is whether the use of radar is appropriate in the prevailing circumstances and that is a determination made by the Master; and, ultimately decided by a trier of fact.
Should you be in a collision how would a judge/jury rule on your contention that the use of radar was impracticable (due to electrical drain, crew shortages, etc.)? Also, if a collision does occur, then there was obviously a risk of collision beforehand. Could the determination of that risk have been made sooner with the use of radar? It is difficult to answer such questions because the circumstances of each case are different.
More importantly, remember that Rule 7 specifies that assumptions shall not be made on the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.

12. When do I need a Look-out? According to Rule 5, all vessels are responsible for maintaining a proper look-out at all times – this includes one-man crews, unmanned crafts, and recreational boats.
The term look-out implies watching and listening so that he/she is aware of what is happening around the vessel. The emphasis is on performing the action, not on the person. Still, in all but the smallest vessels, the lookout is expected to be an individual who is not the helmsman and is usually located in the forward part of the boat, away from the distractions and noises of the bridge. While no specific location on a vessel is prescribed for the lookout, good navigation requires placement at the point best suited for the purpose of hearing and observing the approach of objects likely to be brought into collision with the vessel.
The size of the vessel and crew effect this answer, however, the emphasis in every legal decision points to the need for a proper, attentive look-out. While the use of radar to evaluate the situation is implied in the requirement to use all available means, that is still understood to be secondary to maintaining a look-out by sight and hearing.

13. Where do Kayaks and Canoes fit into the Navigation Rules? Kayaks and Canoes are a vessel under oars and are addressed specifically in Rule 25 (lights).
Although a vessel under oars may be lit as a sailing vessel, one should not infer that they are considered to be a sailing vessel for other Rules (i.e. Rule 9, 10, 12, 18 or 35). Ultimately, the issue of whether a vessel under oars is the give way or stand-on vessel would fall to what would be required by the ordinary practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case (Rule 2), and, the notion that they are less able than most other vessels.
Per Rule 25(d) they must be lit with 1 of 3 options between sunset and sunrise:

1. display the lights of a sailing vessel (per Rule 25 and Annex I); or
2. display an all-round white light (visible for at least 2 miles [per Rule 22] and meet the technical characteristics [i.e. color, intensity] per Annex I); or
3. have at hand either an electric torch (flashlight) or lighted lantern (oil or gas) which need not comply with Rule 22 or Annex I.
   • Preferably, option #3 provides similar lighting, intensity and characteristics of an all-around white light (versus a single beam of light);
   • may be mounted, worn, stowed, etc so long as it is ready at hand to warn other mariners; and,
   • should be used in ample time so as to warn others of danger and in manner consistent with Rule 36, so that it notembarrass any vessel (i.e. so as not to blind or otherwise negatively impact their navigation). See FAQ#14 (below) for a discussion regarding high intensity and flashing lights.

14. Can I use decorative lights, strobes, or other high intensity or specialty lights to be more visible at night? Standard lights are displayed aboard all vessels to help others to identify them and to better understand their maneuvering characteristics or possibly distress. The use of any lights, other than the lights prescribed by the Rules or its Annexes, is discouraged because the use of decorative lights, strobes, or other high intensity or specialty lighting could:

• confuse, rather than make you more visible;
• obfuscate a vessel’s navigation lights, its characteristics, or cease to provide crucial direction and aspect information to other vessels;
• likely hinder a proper lookout and operators visibility (see Rule 20(b));
• be mistaken for other lights used as aids to navigation, by law enforcement or public safety vessels (i.e. flashing blue, red, yellow lights).

For example, if while operating my vessel I see a red light on my starboard side I know I am the give-way vessel (Rule 16, 17).

Should a mariner opt to use additional lighting, we suggest you look at this lighting from afar to ascertain whether it would violateRule 20; and, we exhort you to adjust or refrain from using such lighting, if that is the case.

Note, although Rule 37 of the Inland Rules allows the use of a high intensity white light flashing at regular intervals from 50 to 70 times per minute to signal in distress and requires assistance, such and similar lights are prohibited in the International Rules (Rule 36), and, shall be avoided because their use could interfere with the lookout and being seen by others.

15. How do I report a marine accident? 33 CFR 173 provides guidance in regards to accident reporting. For most States the issuing and reporting authority is the State itself – if in doubt contact your local Coast Guard Sector Command Center.

16. Who is responsible for damage incurred during a marine accident? There is a long standing notion of Tort Law–that one is responsible for one’s damages–the issue however is culpability and to what degree. These are matters of fact and law.

17. What does WIG stand for? A wing-in-ground (WIG) craft is defined as a vessel capable of operating completely above the surface of the water on a dynamic air cushion created by aerodynamic lift due to the ground effect between the vessel and the water’s surface. WIG craft are capable of operating at speeds in excess of 100 knots. Presently, there are no Coast Guard safety standards for WIG craft. The Coast Guard has started the process of developing safety standards that will address the design, construction, operation, licensing and maintenance of WIG craft with further assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration. Additionally, the United States is working with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop international standards for WIG craft. Questions or comments regarding the development of appropriate WIG craft standards should be referred to Commandant (G-ENG-1) at (202) 267- 0171. A copy of the Coast Guard’s interim WIG craft guidance is located here (.pdf, 104 KB). It has more details on requirements for testing and commercial use.

18. What are Demarcation Lines and Territorial Seas? Demarcation Lines divide the high seas from harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States, for the purpose of determining the applicability of Inland Rules in lieu of the International Rules. International Rules are tantamount to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, (72 COLREGS), while the Inland Rules are synonymous with 33 CFR 80 of United States Code.

Note, the term international water is not defined by U.S. law or the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), yet, it is commonly used to convey high seas. High seas are those waters beyond territorial seas. Territorial seas are a maritime zone extending beyond the land territory and internal waters of that country over which the country exercises sovereignty and jurisdiction, to include the airspace over the territorial sea, as well as to its bed and subsoil.
Territorial seas of the United States are 12 nautical miles from the baseline of the United States of America, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the United States Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other territories or possessions over which the United States exercises sovereignty. The territorial waters of the United States can sometimes extend out to 24 or 200 miles depending on the matter in question; see 33 CFR 2 or UNCLOS for further information.

19. What are the Waters Specified by the Secretary? There is a list of waters specified by the Secretary as quoted from 33 CFR 89.25. These waters are referred to in the Inland sections of Rule 9(a)ii, Rule 14(d), Rule 15(b), and Rule 24(i).

20. Are Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (MODU) required to comply with the Navigation Rules? Yes, per Navigation Rule 3 and as defined in 33 CFR §140.10 MODU’s are vessels, as such they shall abide by the Navigation Rules and properly display navigation lights and shapes accordingly (i.e. Rules 22, 23(a), 27(d), etc.). MODU’s, particularly when drilling, are also subject to other regulations denoted in Title 33 CFR, parts 67, 140 -147 (Subchapter N).

Note: A vessel being propelled by a dynamic positioning system (e.g. MODU) is considered underway even when hovering on location, but, may also be “restricted in her ability to maneuver” as defined by Navigation Rule 3 (International-Inland) depending on the operations (e.g. drilling) being conducted from the vessel at the time.

21. Where can I get flash cards or test questions of the Navigation Rules? The Coast Guard Training Center in Yorktown, VA produces flash cards to assist our members in learning the Navigation Rules, these are not available for public purchase, but, an electronic version may be downloaded here. For Navigation Rules test questions used in the merchant mariners exam visit the Coast Guard National Maritime Center (NMC).

22. Where can I take a Navigation Rules course? The Coast Guard does not offer nor conduct Navigation courses for the general public, we are however responsible for approving training schools dedicated to Navigation and merchant marine training. A listing of these schools and there locations is maintained at the U.S. Coast Guard National Marine Center (NMC). Note, these schools are dedicated to providing training and education to those seeking or renewing a professional mariners license; whom are likely to encounter these NMC Navigation Rules questions when they take their license examination. For those not required to be licensed, e.g. recreational boaters, we suggest you visit our Boating Safety Resource Center which provides a listing of various sources and organizations which provide boating safety courses throughout the country and on-line; such as those provided by the Coast Guard Auxiliary – the uniformed civilian volunteer component of Team Coast Guard.

23. Where can I get a quick guide to the U.S. Aids to Navigation System? Each compendium of the Light List contains a ready reference guide to the U.S. Aids to Navigation System, which you can also download here.

24. Have a navigation question not answered here?
CLICK HERE to go to the USCG FAQ webpage

---

Forum Posts, Tech Notes & Tech Tips

⇒ Directory Under Development ⇐

If you think we should add a Forum Post, Tech Note or Tech Tip to this section, please submit the Link via email To: Editor♣EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@")

---

Related Media
with Links to EAB's Media Overview and Creator Profile Pages

Media with Bold Titles are part of our Academy eLibrary!
Academy Members can view the Media by clicking on its Bold Title Link to go to its
EAB overview page and then scrolling down to the "Academy eLibrary" section for its link.

To help us alphabetize the media lists below, each leading grammatical
article ("The" - "A" - "An") has been moved to the end of the title.
DS = Data Source code

⇒ Media Directory Under Development ⇐

If any Media or Creators should be added to this list, please submit their info/links via email To:
Editor♣EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@")

---

NOT AN ACADEMY MEMBER?
CLICK HERE to discover how you can become a Member and gain FULL access to
thousands of expanded pages and dozens of excellent programs including our eLibrary!

CLICK HERE to view ALL the books, magazines, videos, etc. in our Academy eLibrary.
Media are also listed by category on the Topic Pages found on the Right Sidebar ⇒
CLICK HERE to donate any books, magazines, manuals, or videos, etc. to our Library.

• +
• +

02 – BOAT BUILDING, OUTFITTING, REFITTING & REPAIR: (Incl. DIY).
02.01 – Boat Designing Schools:
02.02 – Boat Designers: (Naval Architects, Boat Plans, Kits,+).
02.03 – Statutes & Standards: (Vessel & Equipment Requirements,+).
02.03.01 – Marine Laws & Regulations: (CAN, GBR, USA,+).
02.03.02 – Industry Standards: (ISO, IMO, ABYC, NFPA,+).
02.03.03 – Classification Societies: (ABS, LR, DNV<GL, BV, RINA,+).
02.04 – Boat Building & Refitting Tools,+: (Vendors, Specs, Manuals, Recalls,+).
02.05 – Boat Materials: (Qualities, Vendors, Specs, Manuals, Recalls,+).
02.05.01 – Wood: (Species, Rot; Carvel, Clinker/Lapstrake, Veneer/Plywood, Cold Molded,+).
02.05.02 – Metal: Iron, Steel, Aluminum, Copper,+. (Strengths, Weaknesses, Corrosion,+).
02.05.03 – Ferrocement: (Strengths, Weaknesses, Corrosion,+).
02.05.04 – FRP & GRP Composites: Fiberglass, Carbon Fiber,+. (Strengths, Weaknesses,+).
02.06 – Boat Equipment: (Vendors, Specs, Manuals, Reviews, Recalls,+).
02.06.01 – Steering & Thrusters: (Mechanical, Electric, Hydraulic,+).
02.06.02 – Stabilizers & Trim Plates: (Mechanical, Electric, Hydraulic,+).
02.06.03 – Dewatering Devices: (Bailers, Bilge Pumps,+).
02.06.04 – Galvanic Corrosion Protection: (Active, Anodes,+).
02.06.05 – Hull Penetrations & Openings: (Thru-Hulls, Scuttles, Skylights, Hatches,+).
02.06.06 – Deck Hardware & Equipment: (Cleats, Railings,+).
02.06.06.01 – Ground Tackle: (Anchors, Rodes, Chocks, Winches,+).
02.06.06.02 – Commercial Fishing Gear: (Pots, Nets, Lines, Winches, Reels, Rods,+).
02.06.07 – Rigging: (Rig Types, Standing Rigging, Running Rigging, Vendors, Riggers,+).
02.06.07.01 – Sails: (Sail Types, Aerodynamics, Vendors, Sailmakers,+).
02.06.08 – Propulsion Machinery: (Types, Configurations, Features, Control Systems,+).
02.06.08.01 – Engines: (Systems, Manufacturers, Marinizers, Resellers,+).
02.06.08.01.01 – Engine Mechanical (Pistons, Rods, Crankshafts, Cylinders, Heads, Valves,+).
02.06.08.01.02 – Engine Lubrication (Splash, Forced, Oil, Filtration, Additives, Oil Analysis,+).
02.06.08.01.03 – Engine Aspiration & Fuel (Natural & Charged; Gasoline, Diesel, Bunker, NG,+).
02.06.08.01.04 – Engine Electrical (Cranking, Charging, Ignition, Instrumentation, Electronics,+).
02.06.08.01.05 – Engine Cooling (Air, Liquid: Raw Water, Fresh Water w/Keel Coolers, Heat Exchangers,+).
02.06.08.01.06 – Engine Exhaust (Dry, Wet w/Separators,+).
02.06.08.01.07 – Engine Mounting (Hard, Soft,+).
02.06.08.02 – Engine-to-Marine Gear Interfaces: (SAE Specs, Damper Plates, Jackshafts,+).
02.06.08.03 – Marine Gears: (Reversing, Reduction; Mechanical, Hydraulic).
02.06.08.04 – Shafting: (Propshafts, Couplings, Seals, Bearings, Struts, Keys, Nuts,+).
02.06.08.05 – Propellers: (Types, Materials,+).
02.06.09 – Electrical Systems: DC & AC (Direct Current: Batteries, Solar,+; Alternating Current,+).
02.06.09.01 – Auxiliary Generators: (Diesel, Gasoline, Natural Gas,+).
02.06.09.02 – DC-to-AC Inverters:
02.06.10 – Navigation & Communication Systems: (Charting, GPS. Radar; WX, SAT, HF, VHF,+)
02.06.11 – Safety Equipment: (Life Rafts, PFDs, Firefighting Eq., Alarms, Medical Kits,+).
02.06.12 – Domestic Systems:
02.06.12.01 – LPG & CNG Systems:
02.06.12.02 – Cabin Heating & Cooling: (Heaters, Heat Pumps; Air Conditioning,+)
02.06.12.03 – Galley Appliances: (Refrigeration, Galley Stoves,+).
02.06.12.04 – Water & Waste Systems: (Tanks, Water Makers, Pumps, Plumbing,+)
02.06.12.05 – Trash Disposal:
02.06.12.06 – Furnishings: (Cabinetry, furniture, Coverings, Entertainment, Weather,+).
02.06.13 – Personal Equipment:
02.06.13.01 – Diving: (Commercial & Sport).
02.06.13.02 – Fishing: (Sport).
02.06.13.03 – Racing: (Sail, Offshore Power, Powerboat, Hydroplane,+).
02.06.13.04 – Sailing: (Foul Weather Gear, Safety Harnesses,+).
02.06.13.05 – Watersports: (Surfing, Skiing, Boarding, Tubing,+).
02.06.14 – Boat Tenders:
02.06.15 – Boat Trailers: (Bunk, Roller,+)
02.07 – Marine Suppliers: (CAN, GBR, USA,+). (National Chains, Local,+)
02.08 – Boat Builders: (A∼Z) (w/Vessel Types, Locale & Years Active)
02.09 – Boat Refitters: (CAN, GBR, USA,+) (Shipyards, Boatyards, Riggers, Repair Shops,+).
02.10 – Boat Building, Outfitting, Refitting & Repair Schools: (Incl. DIY).
02.11 – DIY Boat Building, Outfitting, Refitting & Repair: (Maintenance‚ Troubleshooting‚+).

13 – BOATING & MARITIME EDUCATION: (Operator Qualification,+).
13.01 – Recreational Boating Seamanship Training:
13.01.01 – Boating Safety Classes: (Pleasure Craft Operator’s Cards,+).
13.01.02 – Seamanship Schools:
13.01.03 – Sailing Schools:
13.01.04 – Private On-The-Water Training:
13.01.05 – Diving Schools: (Recreational and Tech Diving)
13.02 – Maritime Schools: (Ship's Master, Crew, Pro/Com Diving,+)
13.03 – Boating Safety: (Accidents, Prevention, Man-Overboard, Search & Rescue,+).

14 – MARINE LAWS & REGULATIONS: (CAN, GBR, USA,+) (International, National,+).
14.01 – Lawyers: (CAN, GBR, USA,+).
14.02 – Investigators, Consultants & Expert Witnesses:
14.03 – Actual Cases:

16 – MEDIA w/Creator Directory: (Authors, Editors, Publishers,+) + Academy eLibrary.
16.01 – Documentation: (Catalogs, Ads, SpecSheets, Manuals, TechVids, Bulletins, Recalls‚+).
16.02 – Books: (Bound, eBooks,+).
16.03 – Magazines: (Incl. Back Issues, Articles,+).
16.04 – Videos: (How-to-Tutorials, Documentaries, Travelogues, Movies,+).
16.05 – Websites: (Incl. Articles, Forum Posts, Tech Tips, Tech Notes, Social Media,+).

---

EVERYTHING ON THIS PAGE OK?
If there is anything on this webpage that needs fixing, please let us know via email To:
Editor♣EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@")

THIS ARTICLE IS STILL EVOLVING!
The page may contain rough drafts that include raw source materials.

---

Visit our FEATURED ARTICLES Home Page
to see examples of our website's comprehensive contents!

Thanks to our amazing contributors for the steady flow of articles, and to our dedicated all-volunteer staff who sort, polish and format them, everyday we get a little bit closer to our goal of
Everything About Boats. If you would like to submit an article,
See Submitting Articles.

---

— TOP 20 MOST POPULAR ARTICLES —

Detroit Diesel 8.2 Liter “Fuel Pincher” V8 Engine
Cummins V-555 & VT-555 “Triple-Nickel” V8 Diesel Engine
Lehman 120 (6D380) Diesel Engine (Ford 2704C & 2715E)
Ford Industrial Power Products Diesel Engines
How to Identify Ford Diesel Engines
Ford 2715E Diesel Engine
Lehman Mfg. Co.
Perkins Engines
Universal Atomic 4
Sears Boat Motors: Motorgo, Waterwitch, Elgin, etc.
Chrysler & Force Outboards
Eska Outboard Motors
Allison Transmission
ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Marine Surveyors by Country
American Marine Ltd (Grand Banks)
Boat Inspection (Types of Marine Surveys)
Boat Builders: (A∼Z) (w/Vessel Types, Locale & Years Active)
USCG NVIC 07-95 Guidance on Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of Wooden Hulls
American Boat and Yacht Counsel (ABYC)

---

Layout of the EverythingAboutBoats.org Website's Pages

— Types of Webpages —
This website consists almost entirely of 3 types of webpages as follows:

1. TOPIC PAGES (See Main Topic Pages listed on Website Contents or the Right Sidebar) ⇒
   • EXAMPLE: – WEBSITE CONTENTS w/Links to MAIN TOPIC & Subtopic Pages:
   • EXAMPLE: 02 – BOAT BUILDING, OUTFITTING, REFITTING & REPAIR:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06 – Boat Equipment:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08 – Propulsion Machinery:
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 – Engines w/Directory of Vendors.
2. VENDOR PAGES (Vendors of Products, Services, Events,+, Destinations & Media Creators)
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^  Ford Industrial Power Products Diesel Engines.
3. PRODUCT PAGES (Equipment, Events, Media: pDoc, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites,+)
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford 2715E Diesel Engine.
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford OpManual - 2710 Range Diesel Engines.
   • EXAMPLE: 02.06.08.01 –  ^   ^  Ford Service Manual - 2700 & 2710 Range Diesel Engines.

Clickable Links that lead to other webpages appear in Blue Text and usually open in a new window.
Links in the Right Sidebar and most directories open in the current window, not a new window.
Note in the examples above that these pages form a natural hierarchy.
The unnumbered "^" pages are listed alphabetically in most tables.
Media Titles in tables are distinguished by their smaller font size.
Media (Books, Magazines, Videos, Articles,+) are treated as Products.
Vendors' Product Documentation (pDoc) are considered Media.
Destinations & Media Creators are treated as Vendors.
All Website Pages are optimized for viewing on
full-width disktop computer monitors,
but can be viewed on phones.

— Contents of Webpages —
Website Pages typically contain the following Sections:

1. PATH (Shows the chain of EAB pages w/links that lead to the page being viewed).
   1. EXAMPLE:
      PATH: HOME, WEBSITE INDEX, WEBSITE CONTENTS » ∨
      ∧ BOAT BUILDING & REPAIR » Boat Equipment » Propulsion » Engines » ∨∨
      ∧∧ Ford, Ebro, American Diesel, AmMarine, Barr, Beta, Bomac, Bowman, Couach,
      Lees, Lehman, Mermaid, Parsons, Renault, Sabre, Thornycroft, Wortham Blake »
      ∧ DO-IT-YOURSELF » DIY Boat Building & Repair » DIY Schools & Classes »
      ∧ MEDIA w/Creator Directory » Documentation, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites »
   2. (The "»" right pointing Guillemet symbol shows the chain through the page links.)
   3. (The "," comma between page links in the chain indicates pages are not subordinate, but are instead at the same level. See engine brands in the example above.)
   4. (The "∨", "∨∨", "∨∨∨",+ symbols indicate that the path line continues with whatever follows the "∧", "∧∧", "∧∧∧",+ symbols respectively. "∧" Precedes each MAIN TOPIC Page.)
2. PAGE CONTENTS (Table of Contents with links to each main section on the page).
   
3. PAGE BODY (The type of page determines the contents of its body as follows:).
   1. TOPIC PAGES (Topic Treatment: Introduction, Overview, Background, Details,+).
      • (Many Topic Pages contain Directories of Vendors with Links).
      • (Most Directory Listings are Alphabetical and/or by Locale).
   2. VENDOR PAGES (Vendor's Profile, Contact Information, Products, Services,+).
      • (Manufacturers, Resellers, Refitters, Yards, Surveyors, Clubs, Schools, Authors,+).
      • (Boating & Travel Destinations are treated as Vendors on their own Vendor Pages).
   3. PRODUCT PAGES (Product Features, Vendor Links, Specifications, Documentation,+).
      • (Media created by a vendor is often treated as a Product on its own Product Page).
      • (Boating & Travel Events are often treated as Products on their own Product Pages).
4. RELATED RESOURCES (Topics, Vendors, Products, Media: Books, Websites,+ with Links).
5. PAGE TAIL Contains the following Anchors Aweigh Academy & EAB Website Features:
   1. The Anchors Aweigh Academy's EverythingAboutBoats.org Header.
   2. A link to our Featured Articles EAB Home Page.
   3. Top 20 Most Popular Articles. (The section that appears right above ⇑ this section).
   4. Layout of the EverythingAboutBoats.org Website's Pages. (This very section ⇐).
   5. Topics of Webpages. (The very next section below ⇓).
   6. What we have accomplished so far.
   7. Members must Sign-In to gain full access to Expanded Pages & Programs.
   8. Sign-Up (if not already a member).
   9. Public Comments (about the website & about this page).
6. RIGHT SIDEBAR (Website Contents menu with links to Main Topic & Subtopic pages).
   (On some smart phones, the Right Sidebar may appear at the bottom of the webpage)

— Topics of Webpages —
Website Pages are categorized under the following 16 MAIN TOPICS:

The MAIN TOPICS follow a natural progression from conception of the vessel thru its
building, marketing, survey, financing, insuring, transport, moorage, use and upkeep.
The MAIN TOPICS (all Caps) below are followed by their Main Subtopics with Links.

00 – HOME: CONTENTS, ABOUT EAB: Contact EAB, Abbreviations & Symbols, FAQ, GLOSSARY, ADs,+.
01 – ABOUT BOATS w/Museum Directory: Early History, Recent History, Modern Vessel Types,+.
02 – BOAT BUILDING, OUTFITTING, REFITTING & REPAIR: Materials, Equipment, Builders,+.
03 – BOAT MARKETING: Boat Shows, Dealers & Brokers, Importing & Exporting, Auctions & Sales,+.
04 – BOAT INSPECTION: Types of Marine Surveys, Marine Surveyors, Schools, DIY Inspections,+.
05 – BOAT TITLES & VESSEL REGISTRY: Boat Title & Registration, Vessel Registry, Title Co's,+.
06 – BOAT FINANCING: Conventional (Banks, Credit Unions,+), Unconventional (Creative),+.
07 – BOAT INSURANCE: Maritime & Recreational: Coverage, Carriers, Agents,+., Claim Processing,+.
08 – BOAT TRANSPORT: By Sea (Piggyback, Delivery Skippers & Crews, & Towing), Over-Land,+.
09 – BOAT HAULING & LAUNCHING: Drydocks, Ways, Lifts, Cranes & Hoists, Launch Ramps,+.
10 – BOAT MOORAGE & STORAGE: Builders, Anchorages, Marinas, Yards, Racks & Stacks,+.
11 – BOATING ORGANIZATIONS: Yacht Clubs & Sailing Clubs, Paddling Clubs, Boat Owners,+.
12 – BOATING & TRAVEL: Events, Destinations, Boat Rentals & Charters, Cruises, Voyages,+.
13 – BOATING & MARITIME EDUCATION: Recreational Seamanship, Ship's Master & Crew,+.
14 – MARINE LAWS & REGULATIONS: International & National Laws‚ Lawyers‚ Investigators‚+.
15 – DO-IT-YOURSELF: DIY Boat Building & Repair, DIY Boat Sales, DIY Boat Surveys, DIY Classes,+.
16 – MEDIA w/Creator Directory + Academy eLibrary: pDocs, Books, Magazines, Videos, Websites,+.

The above MAIN TOPICS and a more detailed listing of Subtopics can
be found on the Website Contents page and on the Right Sidebar.

---

What we have accomplished so far.
Anchors Aweigh Academy and its EverythingAboutBoats.org website.

• Published over 50,000 website pages about boats and boating, bringing us closer to reaching our goal of becoming "The ultimate reference resource about boats and ships for everyone from the beginning recreational boater to the seasoned professional mariner!"
• Published over 300 website main topic webpages, many with full articles on the topic. See our Website Contents or the Right Sidebar for the listing of the main topic pages.
• Published over 9,000 marine vendor webpages, all with their contact information, most with a description of their products and services, many with product documentation, specifications and independent reviews. (incl.: Boat designers, boat building tools, material and equipment manufacturers and suppliers, boat builders and dealers, yacht brokers, marine surveyors, boat insurers, boat transporters, skippers and crews, boatyards and marinas, yacht clubs, boat rentals and yacht charters, boating, seamanship and maritime schools, marine law attorneys and expert witnesses, boat refitters and repairers, book authors, magazine publishers, video producers, and website creators)
• Acquired over 120,000 pages of product documentation including Catalogs, Brochures, SpecSheets, Pictures, Serial Number Guides, Installation Manuals, OpManuals, Parts Catalogs, Parts Bulletins, Shop Manuals, Wiring Diagrams, Service Bulletins, and Recalls. And have made all viewable to Academy Members through our EAB website eLibrary.
• Acquired over 1,200 books and magazine back issues in our academy library and so far have made over 700 viewable to Academy Members through our EAB website eLibrary.
• Published over 500 DIY How-To articles about boat design, construction, inspection, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair. We are working hard to do more.

We are currently formatting and polishing the Anchors Aweigh Academy online and hands-on courses. Our Marine Surveying course has proven to be excellent for both the beginner and the seasoned surveyor, and especially helpful to the Do-It-Yourselfer.

---

Current Academy Members must SIGN IN to gain FULL access to this
website including expanded pages and valuable Academy programs
like our Academy eLibrary and our Ask-An-Expert Program!
If your membership has expired, CLICK HERE to Renew.

IF YOU ARE NOT YET AN ANCHORS AWEIGH ACADEMY MEMBER,
CLICK HERE to discover how you can become a Member and gain FULL access to
thousands of expanded pages and articles, and dozens of excellent programs
WITH JUST A SMALL DONATION!

---

Comments for Public Viewing

Submit any comments for public viewing via email To: Comments♣EverthingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@")
Please remember to put this webpage's title in the subject line of your email.
All comments are moderated before they appear on this page. See Comment Rules.

General Comments About the Website

FROM Donald: "This is an awesome website. I found the information that I needed right away from one of the over 20,000 free articles that you provide as a public service. I'm surprised that so much if this site is free. But I still signed up so I could access the thousands of expanded pages, interesting articles, and dozens of valuable programs! The member's library of books, magazines and videos that I can view online is really terrific! I understand that you and your staff are all unpaid volunteers. Please keep up the good work. And I commend you for your plans to add another 10,000 free informative articles over the next year. I'm thrilled to support you in this endeavor with my small membership donation. Thanks again for all your hard work."

FROM Huey: "I agree with my Uncle, I too have found the articles to be very enlightening. They say that it will take about 100,000 articles to cover the full scope that they have envisioned for the website. They have over 20,000 articles so far and that's doing pretty well, but it could take several years to get the rest. I also noticed that many of the Main Topic Pages and some of the article pages are still in the rough draft stage. I guess that they will fill in as they can get volunteers to work on them. But what I can't figure out is why anyone would spend the time writing informative in depth articles just to give away free to this website for publication? What's in it for them?"

FROM Dewey: "Well Huey, to me It looks like most of the articles on this website are written by very informed people, like boating instructors, boat designers, boat builders, riggers, electricians, fitters, marine repair technicians and marine surveyors. Writing such articles helps establish them as knowledgeable professionals. After all, this website was originally created by a school for marine technicians and marine surveyors. The website is growing in content every day. They even had to move to a bigger, more powerful server because the website's traffic has been growing exponentially."

FROM Louie: "I agree with everyone above. This site is quickly becoming the ultimate reference resource about every aspect of boats and ships for everyone from the beginning recreational boater to the seasoned professional mariner. I use the topic pages on the right sidebar to browse around the website. It's like a Junior Woodchucks' Guidebook for Boaters. Their Members' Library of over 300 popular and obscure books and over 200 magazine back issues that can be viewed online is fabulous. The Academy's magazine is especially informative. On top of that, there is the "Ask-An-Expert program for members where you can get an expert's answer to any of your boat questions. And a whole years membership is only $25. What a deal! I really love being part of this "Everything About Boats" community and help provide thousands of helpful articles free to the public. I think that I'll sit down right now and write an article about my experiences boating with my uncle."

FROM Scrooge: "You rave about this website like it was the best thing since sliced bread. Well, I think it stinks. Sure, it has a lot of good information for boaters, and they're adding more every day, but it will probably never be finished. Furthermore, I don't even own a boat. And I wouldn't have a boat even if someone gave me one. Boats are a waste of money and time and energy and money! They're just a hole in the water you pour money into. If you gave me a boat, I'd sell it quicker then you could say Baggywrinkle. Then I'd lock up the cash with all my other money so I could keep my eye on it and count it every day. Bah humbug."

FROM Daisy: "I'm just so glad that Donald got the boat so we and the boys could enjoy boating — together. And of course all of the girls, April, May, and June, love to be on the water too, especially when that is where the boys are. Oh poor Scrooge, boating is more fun then you could possibly imagine."

FROM Scrooge: "After seeing how much fun you all have on the water together, I regret that I didn't have that much fun when I was young. I've had a change of heart, and I'm giving each of you a Lifetime Academy Membership."

FROM Editor: "For those of you that have stayed with us this far, many thanks, and we hope that you found this little narrative informative. Your faithful support inspires us to keep working on this phenomenal website. We know that we have a lot more to do. Ultimately, we hope that we can help you enjoy the wonder filled world of boating as much as we do. We are all waiting to see what you have to say about this webpage article. Submit any comments via email To: Comments♣EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@"). Be sure to include this page's title in the subject line. Also, your corrections, updates, additions and suggestions are welcomed. Please submit them via email To: Editor♣EverythingAboutBoats.org (Replace "♣" with "@"). It has been truly amazing to see what we have been able to accomplished when we've worked together. Thanks to all those that have donated their valuable time and energy, and a special THANK YOU to all that have supported this cause with their membership donations."

Comments About This Particular Page

FROM ΞNameΞ: “Be_the_next_to_comment_about_this_page.” {230316}