Thursday, July 27, 2017

Summer Boating Etiquette

Are you looking forward to another summer on the water?

Do you know the correct etiquette for boaters? Are you following the rules, or do you tend to be a little reckless?

The last thing you want this summer is a boating accident that could harm you or someone you love.
You should also teach boating etiquette to your children, so they can be safer boaters, too!

aluminum boat docks, aluminum dock sections, boat dock parts, aluminum docks, dock installation, dock design Right Of Way

When crossing paths with another vessel, you should recognize which vessel is the “privileged” or “stand-on” vessel. In other words, you and your boat either “stand-on” course because you have the right-of-way, or you “give way” to another vessel.

When passing another boat, sound two short blasts from your horn to signify you’d like permission to pass. If the boat you’re trying to pass blasts their horn five times, or doesn’t respond at all, you should assume it’s not safe to pass.

This rule can be a little vague sometimes, especially if you’re on a river or lake that’s very crowded. Frank Penny, a boating safety and seamanship course instructor for U.S. Power Squadron says, “It’s good sense to relax, let the other guy have the right-of-way and avoid a collision, no matter who has the right-of-way.” In other words, if you feel like you’re being challenged by another boater, let the other boat go first.

Anchoring and Mooring

Be sure to enter an anchorage or mooring at a slow speed. Remember that your neighbors and other boaters don’t want to get caught up in a wake you create by coming in at a high speed! Don’t get too close to other anchored boats, and take care not to blind your neighbors if you’re using a spotlight.

Marina Manners

If you’re stopping at a marina instead of your private boat dock, keep in mind that other boats are also using it. At peak times of the day, remember that other boats are stopping for fuel and other necessities, so make sure to follow proper procedures and move out of the way in a timely manner.
In addition, make sure to keep the area around your slip clear and put equipment back where it belongs if you use it.


Take a Safety Course

If you’re new to boating or want a refresher, take a boating safety course! There are courses available through the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary about boat safety and boat handling that are great for learning not only written rules of boating, but the unwritten ones too.

At the end of the day, boaters tend to think of each other as members of the same community and neighbors, so make sure you exercise good etiquette out on the water. Stop to help a fellow boater if they need it, and be courteous no matter what.

Looking For More?

If you need more information about boating, aluminum boat docks, or accessories, Alumi-Span can help! We love spending time on the water and want to help you have a great summer on the lake, too. Contact us today to find out how we can help you build a custom boat dock to transform your cottage or lake house into the perfect summer giveaway!

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