There are more boats on the water now than ever before yet there are no regulations requiring the operators learn the basics of boat operation, handling, safety and navigation prior to setting out. The results are a large number of boat operators with little knowledge of traditional nautical etiquette.
Boats 40 feet and over are required by federal law to carry a copy of the federal collision regulations (COLREGS) or an equivalent rules book on board (see the MariSafe section Review Regulations). While it is the boat operator’s responsibility to know the federal regulations as well as his or her state’s regulations, each boater should also understand the importance of common courtesy when on the water.
Boating is an activity that many pursue for relaxation and enjoyment, often using boats as a means to pursue other water based sports such as skiing, snorkeling, diving and fishing. To enhance the enjoyment of boating, simple things such as taking it easy, not being in a hurry, treating other boaters the way you would like to be treated and exercising good judgment can all be applied to your on-the-water experience.
To see how applying good boating manners can work for you, look at the return you might get. If you’ve just been rude to another boater by throwing a huge wake when passing or have “buzzed” an anchored boat—do you think the victim of your harassment will assist you if your boat breaks down?
Below are a few simple steps to a better boating experience:
- Take a boating course prior to piloting a boat. The US Power Squadron and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in conjunction with the USCG Auxiliary offer courses that instruct you on basic boat operation and handling, rules of the road, navigation and safety. There are several incentives to obtaining certificates for safe boating courses—the discounted premiums you can realize from your insurance company, keeping your family and crew safer, and minimizing errors that can lead to damaging your boat, other boats or property, as well personal injury.
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- Know the rules of the road and follow them unless a situation dictates that avoiding a collision takes priority. There will be times that despite the rules of the road and your legal rights, you’ll find yourself in a situation where you need to take action to avoid a collision. In fact, the general rule of the COLREGS states, “In construing and complying with these Rules due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and collision and to any special circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels involved, which may make a departure from these Rules necessary to avoid immediate danger.”
- Practice sound judgment. There may be events that occur while boating that require you to ignore your temper or stifle the urge to retaliate such as when another boater cuts you off or otherwise endangers your boat and crew. Removing yourself, your crew and your boat to safety is the primary goal, and practicing sound judgment will get you there. And remember, alcohol and sound judgement on the water do not mix.
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