Invited on the boat? Safety tips, advice for being invited back
With summer in full swing, boating season has begun, making it essential for both boat owners and guests to brush up on their boating etiquette.
Understanding proper boating etiquette can make the difference between being welcomed back by your boat-friends or left ashore next time.
Boating involves both safety rules and the unspoken rules of courtesy. These guidelines apply whether you’re on a fishing boat, canoe, or yacht, whether on oceans, lakes, or rivers.
Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind before you hop on board and set out on the water.
Here are some rules before you hop on the boat and get into the water.
Go slow
When pulling into or out of the marina, go slow. It will give you time to react if something comes up. Moving too fast through the marina can cause wakes, which can capsize other vessels or cause damage to docked or moored boats.
Lend a hand
Look out for other boaters. If your see another boater that's in distress, the proper thing to do is to pull over and help. It could be something minor or serious, like calling the Coast Guard for help.
Fueling and dock manners
Be considerate of your neighbors and the environment. Sound travels and so will your conversations or music. Do not throw trash in the water; hold on to your garbage till you get to land and can dispose of it properly.
Fuel, pay and go. Don't hold up the line if you need to buy groceries or supplies. Don’t drain, clean, or unload your boat while in line or sitting on the ramp to launch either, just move and relocate your boat.
Anchoring and mooring
Head into an anchorage or mooring slowly; again slow down so not to create a wake that would impact other boaters.
Follow the lead of other boats in how you tie off, how much line you use and how much distance to leave between boats. Also be considerate of your neighbors while parked next to them.
Right of way
A sailboat under sail always has the right of way over a power boat, and human powered boat, like kayaks or canoes have the right of way over any vessel, including sail boats.
The stand on vessel, which comes from the port or stern side, has the right of way. When it approaches from the starboard, it's the give-way vessel.
Being a good boat guest
Know what kind of boat you are getting on and what to expect and don't be afraid to lend a hand. Dress for the elements and wear the right shoes or no shoes at all. Bring enough snacks and sunscreen to share. If you are prone to seasickness, prepare for it.
Safety
Make sure everyone knows the safety procedures and where the life jackets are and how to use them.
There should be at least one other passenger that should know how to take over for the captain in case of an emergency, including the use of VHF radio
You are responsible for your wake as much as your boat. Even if your boat doesn't cause any damage, you can be legally liable if your wake does.
The waves created by your wake can cause a possible collision or knock a person overboard.
This article originally appeared on USATNetwork: The basics of proper boating etiquette and what you need to know