Follow Navigation Rules: Boaters must follow the same navigation rules as other vessels on the water. This includes maintaining a safe speed and distance from other boats, yielding to larger vessels, and avoiding areas with restricted access or no-wake zones.
Be Respectful: Be respectful of other boaters, swimmers, and wildlife. Avoid creating excessive noise, wake, or disturbance, and never throw trash or other debris into the water.
Use Proper Anchoring Techniques: When anchoring, be sure to use proper techniques to avoid damaging the sea floor or other boats. Use designated anchoring areas when available, and never anchor in areas with high boat traffic or where other boats are already anchored.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Boats should maintain a safe distance from other vessels, particularly when passing or crossing paths. Avoid approaching other boats too closely, and never impede the movement of another vessel.
Use Proper Lighting: Boats must use proper lighting at night or in low visibility conditions. This includes displaying a white light visible from all directions when anchored or moored, and using red and green lights to indicate the direction of travel when underway.
Offer Assistance: If you see another boater in distress, offer assistance if you can do so safely. This is not only a matter of boating etiquette but also a legal requirement.
Watch Your Wake: Be aware of the wake created by your boat and adjust your speed and direction as needed to minimize the impact on other vessels. Remember that larger boats create larger wakes, and it’s your responsibility to ensure that your wake does not cause damage or danger to others.
Overall, following boating etiquette is important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all boaters on the water. By being respectful and courteous to others, boaters can help create a positive boating community and prevent accidents or incidents on the water.
