By: Riviera Sea School, Your Sea School in the South of France (contact)
PART I – INTRO, STEERING AND SAILING RULES
IRPCS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) are set out by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and exist for all seafarers to follow. Although mostly common sense it is the seafarers responsibility these rules are followed at all times, keeping watch, traveling at a safe speed and assessing every maneuver for the risk of collision.
The IRPCS are not only vital for the safety of all water users but provide a clear line that separates inland and coastal waterways which differ in rules and regulations. Proceedures for navigating the European Inland Waterways are all laid out by the CEVNI code and should be abided by with the same diligence as COLREGS are abided by on coastal waters.
IPRC are set out in five different parts and written in great detail. We would encourage the serious student to take the time to study the document in full, here however we are going to give you a brief run down on the general points you should familiarize yourself with before setting out on the water. (more…)