Like the Driver’s Ed book that you study before getting a license, every boat owner should have a copy of the U.S. Government published Navigation Rules. It is only mandatory that a copy be kept aboard all vessels over 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length.
The Navigation Rules cover steering rules akin to rules of the road, sound signaling equipment and requirements, and a section on navigation lights.
Proper and safe on-water navigation has many facets, but the most common situation faced when meeting another boat is likely going to be one of the following: a crossing situation, a head-on situation, or an overtaking situation.
Boaters should be sure to know all the requirements and etiquette expected of them, including what to do when you encounter commercial vessels, vessels engaged in fishing and diving and law enforcement personnel. At the very least, you should always have a lookout, operate at a safe speed and yield or give-way to another vessel when in doubt to always avoid a collision.
Download a copy of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Navigation Rules
This article was brought to you by the Nashville Boat Club.
