When you are out on the water, there are some rules set in place by the U.S. Coast Guard as well as your local and state authorities that you have to adhere to. Following these rules helps prevent collisions and helps keep everyone out on the water happy and safe. Before we get started learning these boating right of way rules though, there are a few terms you'll need to know:
- Starboard - To your right
- Port - To your left
- Stern - The back of your vessel
With this directional vocabulary in mind, you're ready to begin learning how to navigate your boat through crowded waters. Keep reading to learn the basics of boating right of way.
Why Does Boating Right of Way Matter?
You might be wondering why you should even care or take the time to learn about boating right of way. There are a few reasons boating right of way is important. One, is that it is the law. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the driver of the vessel is responsible to comply with these rules. Another reason is that it helps prevent potential collisions on the water which can be dangerous and expensive. The driver of every vessel is responsible for keeping their passengers, and other vessel's passengers safe, and following the boating right of way rules is a great way to ensure safety.
How to Approach a Non-Power Vessel
If you are approaching a vessel that is not powered by a motor or other machinery (such as a sailboat, kayak, or paddleboard), they will always have the right of way. You should be mindful of your wake and give them plenty of room as you are passing them.
How to Approach a Power-Driven Vessel
A power-driven vessel is powered by a motor or other machinery (such as a powerboat or jet ski). There are a few different scenarios to consider when learning the right of way for power-driven vessels. If another boat is approaching from your port side, then you have the right of way and should continue to drive the speed and direction you are currently driving. If another boat is trying to cross and is approaching from starboard, then they have the right of way. You should change your route to keep a safe distance from their vessel. If any other boater is approaching from your stern, then you always have the right of way.
Special Circumstances for Boating Right of Way
There are some special circumstances that a boater may have to face while on the water. Below are some guidelines on boating right of way in these scenarios:
- Meeting Another Vessel Head On: If you end up in a scenario where you are approaching another vehicle head to head, the general rule is that each should steer starboard, passing each other port to port. This scenario is likely to occur every once in a while, and you should always be prepared to navigate accordingly.
- Navigating Crowded Areas: If you are driving through a crowded area, it is especially important to let other boaters know what you are planning to do. Some boaters use a VHF radio to verbally communicate, however there are other things you can do to let the boaters around you know your next move. If you are approaching a boat and plan on going behind them, you should aim for that boat's stern. This alerts the other driver you are going behind them and that they do not need to alter their course.
- Using a Horn: Some boaters use their horns to alert other boaters of what is going on. Two honks mean that you are trying to pass a boat, if they return two honks that means you are okay to pass them. Five honks however indicates there is danger, so you should stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
General Tips for Boating Safety
When you are driving a boat, you should know the right of way rules and always be paying attention. However, you will come across some boat drivers who are not. This is why you should always be aware of other boaters and be prepared to switch navigation to avoid a collision. You should also never speed, as this increases the chances of a crash. Going slow helps prevent any damage to your boat, another boat, or people in the water. Our last general tip is to always be respectful and show good boat etiquette. This means to always give other boats as much space as possible, control your wake and music volume when you are close to other boaters, and follow the water markers or buoys on your waterway.
While these are the rules for boating right of way, there may be situations where staying safe requires you to deviate from the rules. As the driver, you are responsible for avoiding a collision at all costs. Safety is the most important thing when operating a watercraft so always use your best judgment to avoid unsafe situations.
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