When you are out on the water, you are likely to come into contact with many other boaters. While most of them will be considerate and responsible, it is likely you will encounter some inconsiderate and unsafe boaters from time to time. Boating etiquette is a crucial part of everyone being able to enjoy their time on the water. Below are some of the key boating rules you should know, and how to handle boaters ignoring these basic rules.
1. Noise Level
It is important to keep other people in mind when it comes to the volume coming from your boat. While you may be having a great time on your boat, it is important to remember that sound travels, especially on a clear, calm day. Try to keep any music to a reasonable level while out on the water and consider turning it down as you pass other boats. If you are docked or anchored, be aware of your surroundings. There may not be other boats directly around you, but houses on shore can also hear you if you are docked or anchored close to shore. If you encounter another boat that is causing a disturbance, you can either ask them to turn it down or move away. It is likely that if they continue to cause a ruckus, authorities will contact them to quiet down, especially at night.
2. Keep Focused
Most accidents on the water are due to someone not paying enough attention. If you are the driver of the boat, you must make sure that you are always paying attention to other boats, debris in the water, the water level, and other hazards. If your passengers are enjoying water sports such as skiing or wakeboarding, you must also be aware of where they are. In these instances, you should consider having a co-captain; this way, you can focus on where you are going, and they can watch the passengers. We are human, so lapses in attention can happen. However, if you notice another boat continuously coming in too close or fast, it is worth reporting them immediately to the local authorities. This is the best way to prevent potential accidents.
3. Keep Your Speed Reasonable
Being out on the water is freeing, and opening up the throttle is always tempting. However, there is a time and place for it, which is in open water away from other boats. Whenever you are near other boats, remember to decrease your speed and give them a wide berth. Your wake should never cause other boats to rock significantly. Additionally, when you are entering an anchorage or mooring area, pay attention to the signs and slow down appropriately. After all, you don’t want your wake to cause damage to other docked boats in the area. If you see someone coming in too fast, consider using your horn to get their attention and warn them.
4. Be Prepared
This includes having the right gear on board, refueling efficiently, and not blocking access to docks or boat launches. When it comes to gear, ensure that you have a lifejacket on board for each passenger, including children. You should also carry extra fuel and consider having a backup motor. When using a fuel dock, get your fuel, pay, and move your boat out of the way. If you need to buy additional items or supplies, make sure you dock out of the way of fueling boats.
When taking your boat out of the water at a boat launch, contact your driver to meet you as you pull in. If the driver is on board, let them out near shore, then head out and wait out of the traffic lane until they are ready for you. If you notice other boaters blocking fueling spots or launches, ask them politely to move. You can also ask how much longer they will be since they may not have noticed that they are blocking access for others.
Staying polite and friendly is often the best way to handle inconsiderate and unsafe boaters while you are out on the water. However, if you are concerned for your safety, or for the safety of others it is important to contact the local authorities as soon as possible. Doing this could be the difference between a great day and a tragic one. Follow the rules above to ensure that your day out on the water is safe and enjoyable for both your boat and others around you.
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