Do not isolate visual recognition from the rule
A light pattern or day shape is only useful if you can decide what the vessel is doing and what your own responsibility becomes.
COLREGs lights and shapes quiz practice
Lights and shapes are one of the easiest COLREGs areas to recognise too slowly. Focused quiz practice helps you identify vessels, understand status, and connect recognition with give-way decisions.
| Revision area | What to recognise | Decision link |
|---|---|---|
| Lights | Aspect, vessel size, side lights, stern lights, masthead lights, and special displays | Work out type, direction, and whether risk of collision may develop. |
| Shapes | Day shapes for anchoring, restricted ability, fishing, constrained draught, and more | Understand vessel status and limitations in daylight. |
| Give-way rules | Overtaking, head-on, crossing, sailing vessels, power-driven vessels | Turn recognition into early, substantial action. |
Mix quick recall with explanations
Fast quizzes build recognition. Explanations help you fix the underlying rule so the answer still makes sense in a new scenario.
Use Marine Radio revision for related VHF calls
COLREGs and VHF are separate subjects, but both matter when avoiding confusion and communicating clearly at sea.
Common questions
Are COLREGs only about lights and shapes?
No. Lights and shapes support recognition, but COLREGs also cover look-out, safe speed, risk of collision, and give-way or stand-on action.
Which course should I use for COLREGs practice?
Day Skipper Theory is the best starting point. Coastal and Yachtmaster revision revisit COLREGs at a more advanced level.
Choose the revision route that matches what you are studying now.
Access is course-specific unless a bundle clearly says otherwise. Each brand stays on its own domain inside the Compass Revision Network.