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BASIC BOATING RULES

(Rules of the road)

Just as there are rules which apply when you are driving on streets and high ways, there are waterway rules which apply when you are driving your boat. These rules are used internationally, and are also enforced by the United States Coast Guard and local agencies. You should be aware of these rules, and follow them whenever you encounter another vessel on the water.

Several sets of rules prevail according to geographic location, but are all basically the same as the International Rules of the Road. The rules presented here in your Owner’s Manual are condensed, and have been provided for your convenience only. Consult your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or Department of Motor Vehicles for a complete set of rules governing the waters in which you will be using your boat.

STEERING AND SAILING RULES AND SOUND SIGNALS

Whenever two vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-of- way; it is called the “stand-on” vessel. The vessel which does not have the right- of-way is called the “give-way” or “bur- dened” vessel. These rules determine which vessel has the right-of-way, and what each vessel should do.

Stand-on vessel

The vessel with the right-of-way has the duty to continue its course and speed, except to avoid an immediate collision. When you maintain your direction and speed, the other vessel will be able to determine how best to avoid you.

Give-way vessel

The vessel which does not have the right- of-way has the duty to take positive and timely action to stay out of the way of the Stand-On vessel. Normally, you should not cross in front of the vessel with the right-of-way. You should slow down or change directions briefly and pass behind the other vessel. You should always move in such a way that the operator of the other vessel can see what you are doing.

“The general prudential rule”

This rule is called Rule 2 in the International Rules and says,

‘In obeying and construing these rules due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and collision, and to any special circumstances, which may render a departure from the above rules necessary in order to avoid immediate danger.’

In other words, follow the standard rules except when a collision will occur unless both vessels try to avoid each other. If that is the case, both vessels become “Give-Way” vessels.

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