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Christopher D. Nolan

Brought to you by the highest rated instructor on Udemy for Marine Navigation, Captain Chris Nolan will guide you through the Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS), which is an extremely challenging subject. 

This course is a monster - it covers every single Rule in the  It is designed to be a general purpose learning course for the Nautical Rules of the Road, but serves equally well for Coast Guard Examination Prep.  If you are studying for a Coast Guard license at any level - from six pack to Unlimited Master, this course serves as a repository of Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) knowledge.

Read more

Brought to you by the highest rated instructor on Udemy for Marine Navigation, Captain Chris Nolan will guide you through the Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS), which is an extremely challenging subject. 

This course is a monster - it covers every single Rule in the  It is designed to be a general purpose learning course for the Nautical Rules of the Road, but serves equally well for Coast Guard Examination Prep.  If you are studying for a Coast Guard license at any level - from six pack to Unlimited Master, this course serves as a repository of Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) knowledge.

In the course, each rule is explained in a video course using a whiteboard and graphics.  Each rule also presents several multiple-choice examination questions that you can use to better your knowledge.  Each section has an additional longer quiz and video lecture describing the various questions/answers.  Finally, there are study tips, test-taking strategies, and common topics that students get wrong so that you can avoid mistakes on the water or in the exam room.

This highly-sought course was previously only available for select students through Practical Navigator Training, but is presented here for anyone to improve their boating skills or advance their professional license. Captain Chris Nolan is a licensed merchant mariner and Coast Guard veteran based in the United States.   

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What's inside

Syllabus

In this section, we will discuss the format of the exam and resources available for study.
Course and Instructor Introduction
Course Resources and Examination Overview
Read more
In this section we will discuss Rules 1-3 in Part A of the COLREGS.

Welcome to Part A of the Rules!

Rule 1 - Application
Rule 2 - Responsibility
Rule 3 - Definitions
Part A Quiz
Part A Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss Rules 4-10 which apply in any condition of visibility.
Section Introduction
Rule 4 - Application
Rule 5 - Look Out
Rule 6 - Safe Speed
Rule 7 - Risk of Collision
Rule 8 - Action to Avoid Collision
Rule 9 - Narrow Channels
Rule 10 - Traffic Separation Schemes
Part B (Any Condition of Visibility) Quiz
Part B (Any Condition of Visibility) Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss Rules 11-18 which apply to vessels in sight of one another.
Rule 11 - Application
Rule 12 - Sailing Vessels
Rule 13 - Overtaking
Rule 14 - Head On Situation
Rule 15 - Crossing Situation
Rule 16 - Action by the Give Way Vessel
Rule 17 - Action by the Stand On Vessel
Rule 18 - Responsibilities Between Vessels
Part B (In Sight) Quiz
Part B (In Sight) Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss Rule 19, which applies when vessels are not in sight of one another.
Rule 19 - Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility
Part B of the Rules - Review
Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules) Section Quiz
Part B (Steering and Sailing Rules) Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss Rules 20-31, which involve Lights and Shapes for vessels.
Rule 20 - Application
Rule 21 - Definitions
Rule 22 - Visibility of Lights
Rule 23 - Power Driven Vessels Underway
Rule 24 Part 1 - Towing and Pushing (International)
Rule 24 Part 2 - Towing and Pushing (Inland)
Key Differences between International and Inland Rules
Rule 24 Part 3 - Towing and Pushing (Both International and Inland)
Rule 25 - Sailing Vessels and Vessels Under Oars
Rule 26 - Fishing Vessels
Rule 27 - Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Ability to Maneuver
Rule 28 - Vessels Constrained by Draft
Rule 29 - Pilot Vessels
Rule 30 - Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
Rule 31 - Seaplanes
Part C (Lights and Shapes) Quiz
Part C (Lights and Shapes) Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss Rules 32-27 which involve sound and light signals between vessels.
Rule 32 - Definitions
Rule 33 - Equipment for Sound Signals
Rule 34 - Maneuvering and Warning Signals
Rule 35 - Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
Rule 36 - Signals to Attract Attention
Rule 37 - Distress Signals
Part D (Sound and Light Signals) Quiz
Part D (Sound and Light Signals) Review and Quiz Discussion
In this section we will discuss the annexes and exceptions to the Rules.
Exceptions and Annexes Topics
In this section we will discuss test preparation and resources.
Top 5 Common Errors Boaters Get Wrong
5 Particularly Hard Topics Students Often Struggle With
Resources for Study
Course Conclusion

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) for Coast Guard Exams with these activities:
Review Basic Navigation Principles
Reviewing basic navigation principles will provide a solid foundation for understanding the COLREGS, especially rules related to safe speed, risk of collision, and narrow channels.
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Show steps
  • Review charts and chart symbols.
  • Practice plotting courses and bearings.
  • Familiarize yourself with navigational tools.
Read 'Rules of the Road' by George P. Wisneskey
Reading this book will provide a deeper understanding of the COLREGS and their practical application, supplementing the course material.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book chapter by chapter.
  • Take notes on key concepts and rules.
  • Review the case studies and examples.
Flashcard drills on lights and shapes
Practicing with flashcards will help you quickly identify vessel lights and shapes, which is crucial for understanding Rules 20-31.
Show steps
  • Create flashcards with vessel lights and shapes on one side and their descriptions on the other.
  • Practice identifying the lights and shapes.
  • Review the flashcards regularly.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Consult 'Farwell's Rules of the Nautical Road'
Consulting this book will provide a deeper understanding of the legal and historical context of the COLREGS.
Show steps
  • Read the relevant sections of the book.
  • Take notes on key legal interpretations.
  • Compare the book's interpretations with the course material.
Create a presentation on a specific rule
Creating a presentation will force you to deeply understand and explain a specific rule, reinforcing your knowledge and improving your ability to communicate it to others.
Show steps
  • Choose a rule to focus on.
  • Research the rule thoroughly.
  • Create a presentation with clear explanations and visuals.
  • Present the rule to a study group or friend.
Participate in a COLREGS study group
Studying with peers allows you to test your knowledge, learn from others' perspectives, and clarify any misunderstandings.
Show steps
  • Find a study group or create one.
  • Review the rules together.
  • Quiz each other on the rules.
  • Discuss challenging scenarios.
Create a COLREGS cheat sheet
Creating a cheat sheet will help you consolidate your knowledge of the COLREGS and provide a quick reference guide for future use.
Show steps
  • Review all the rules and identify key information.
  • Organize the information into a concise format.
  • Include diagrams and visuals.
  • Review and refine the cheat sheet.

Career center

Learners who complete Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) for Coast Guard Exams will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Coast Guard Officer
Coast Guard officers enforce maritime laws and regulations, and a deep understanding of the Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) is vital. Knowing the rules covered in this course helps officers ensure compliance and safety on the waterways. This course is designed to be a general-purpose learning tool for the Nautical Rules of the Road and is equally beneficial for Coast Guard Examination Preparation. Because it covers every single rule in the COLREGS, this course is suited to those seeking any level of Coast Guard license.
Ship Captain
A ship captain is in command of a vessel, and a thorough knowledge of the Nautical Rules of the Road is paramount. This course helps prepare aspiring ship captains. As a captain, understanding and applying these rules correctly is critical for the safety of everyone on board. This course on the Nautical Rules of the Road is valuable because it not only reviews each rule in detail but also offers multiple-choice questions and quizzes designed to test and reinforce understanding. The added benefit of study tips and test-taking strategies makes this course especially useful for professional development.
Merchant Mariner
A merchant mariner navigates and operates commercial vessels, and this course directly supports that career. The Nautical Rules of the Road are fundamental for safe navigation and compliance with maritime regulations. For a merchant mariner, understanding and applying these rules is essential for preventing collisions and ensuring the safety of the vessel and its crew. This course provides a comprehensive review of these rules, including practical application through multiple choice questions and quizzes, helping to build a solid foundation for anyone seeking a career as a merchant mariner.
Pilot
Pilots guide ships through harbors and channels, requiring an expert knowledge of the Nautical Rules of the Road. The information in this course is critical to a pilot's decision making. For pilots, understanding and correctly applying these rules is essential to prevent accidents. This comprehensive course, including multiple-choice questions and quizzes, helps reinforce their existing knowledge. The course's test-taking strategies are especially helpful, ensuring pilots remain sharp and prepared for any situation they may encounter.
Navigation Officer
Navigation officers are responsible for planning and monitoring a vessel's route, and a thorough grasp of the Nautical Rules of the Road is essential. This course can directly support the skills and knowledge needed to become a navigation officer. The course's detailed coverage of each rule, combined with multiple-choice questions and quizzes, helps ensure navigation officers are well-prepared to handle various scenarios at sea. It also serves as a vital resource for professional development and continuous learning in the maritime field.
Yacht Captain
A yacht captain commands and manages a private or charter yacht, and it's crucial to have a solid grasp of the Nautical Rules of the Road. You can use this knowledge to help prepare for this role. Since this course thoroughly covers these rules and their practical application, complete with quizzes and video lectures, it builds a solid foundation for anyone aspiring to captain a yacht. The focus on test-taking strategies and common errors further empowers yacht captains to navigate safely and confidently.
Sailing Instructor
Sailing instructors teach others how to sail, and an understanding of the Nautical Rules of the Road is essential for safe instruction. This course directly aids in the preparation needed to become a sailing instructor. Since the course offers a structured learning path through the rules, this course helps build a strong knowledge base. The course's resources make it ideal for anyone looking to teach sailing, ensuring they can effectively communicate safety procedures and navigational rules to their students.
Marine Surveyor
Marine surveyors inspect vessels to assess their condition, safety, and compliance with regulations, and this course is quite helpful to this career. Knowing the Nautical Rules of the Road is important because it helps the surveyor to ensure and verify that vessels meet the standards for safe navigation and operational competence. This course is beneficial for marine surveyors due to its comprehensive coverage of the COLREGS. Quizzes and video lectures enhance the learning experience, making it perfect for those in the surveying field who need to maintain or enhance their expertise.
Fishing Vessel Operator
Fishing vessel operators manage and operate fishing boats, and a working knowledge of the Nautical Rules of the Road is important for avoiding collisions. This course can be a helpful tool when starting out. It provides a detailed review of the rules, combined with practical multiple-choice questions and quizzes. This knowledge will help improve your boating skills or advancing your professional license. Being the highest rated instructor on Udemy for Marine Navigation, Captain Chris Nolan will guide you through the Nautical Rules of the Road.
Port Authority Official
Port authority officials manage the operations and safety of ports, and knowledge of the Nautical Rules of the Road is relevant to ensure smooth and safe vessel traffic. This course provides a broad understanding of maritime regulations related to navigation safety. The detailed explanations and quizzes included in this course help port authority officials stay informed about current standards and best practices. This knowledge is valuable when coordinating vessel movements and implementing safety procedures within port areas.
Maritime Lawyer
Maritime lawyers handle legal issues related to maritime activities, and understanding the Nautical Rules of the Road is essential for cases involving collisions or navigation disputes. In this role, the course may be useful. The course helps build a foundation in the rules and regulations that govern maritime operations. By providing detailed explanations, multiple-choice questions, and quizzes, this course might be quite helpful for maritime lawyers needing a better grasp of navigational rules. These details enhance their ability to handle legal matters effectively.
Cruise Ship Officer
Cruise ship officers are responsible for various aspects of ship operations, and familiarity with the Nautical Rules of the Road is necessary for safety and efficiency. This course may be useful in setting a foundation for that role. Understanding the details of maritime regulations is beneficial for managing ship operations effectively. The quizzes and comprehensive rule descriptions provided in this course help officers stay informed about the latest safety guidelines and operational procedures. This knowledge would be valuable for maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for passengers and crew.
Marine Engineer
Marine engineers maintain and operate the mechanical and electrical systems on a ship, and familiarity with maritime safety regulations is an asset for this job. The course may be useful for marine engineers. The course helps engineers understand how their work relates to overall vessel safety and compliance. The quizzes and detailed rule explanations could be helpful for reinforcing knowledge and ensuring operational competence. This is especially useful in maintaining safe and efficient vessel operations.
Maritime Insurance Adjuster
Maritime insurance adjusters investigate claims related to marine accidents, and a good understanding of the Nautical Rules of the Road is essential. This course may benefit those aiming for this role. Understanding navigation rules and regulations helps adjusters analyze incident reports, determine liability, and assess damage effectively. The course's resources and its test-taking strategies enhance critical thinking skills, aiding in accurate claims assessments.
Marine Conservationist
Marine conservationists work to protect marine environments, and knowing the Nautical Rules of the Road promotes safer navigation practices which reduces accidents that can harm marine life. This course may serve those who wish to enter this role. Understanding maritime activities and their potential impact on the environment can aid in developing effective conservation strategies. The comprehensive coverage of the rules helps conservationists understand how regulations support marine protection. This would be especially important for those involved in enforcing environmental protection laws at sea.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Nautical Rules of the Road (COLREGS) for Coast Guard Exams.
Provides a comprehensive explanation of the COLREGS, including detailed interpretations and practical examples. It valuable resource for understanding the nuances of each rule and how they apply in various situations. This book is commonly used by maritime professionals and students preparing for Coast Guard exams. It adds depth to the course by providing real-world scenarios and case studies.
Classic reference for understanding the COLREGS, providing detailed explanations and interpretations of each rule. It is particularly helpful for understanding the legal aspects of the rules and how they are applied in practice. This book useful reference tool for maritime professionals and students alike. It adds breadth to the course by providing a historical perspective and legal context.

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