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6 Primary Right of Ways For Boating

a boat floating on a body of water

For non-boaters or people new to boating, things can be a little bit complicated, in terms of understanding the right of ways rules. It may seem like the rules to follow can be picked up using common sense, because, I mean, for the fact that there are no traffic signs, lanes, speed bumps, or stops signs, everyone can do as they please to survive through a wave and avoid hitting the next person.

But like everything else, there are rules. These rules were put in place from experience to ensure that everyone has a safe boating experience. So, as a captain of your boat, you have to learn the rules. So here are some right of ways for boating.

1.) Maintain a Safe Speed

What this point states is that you shouldn’t be in a hurry. When you’re approaching another vessel, it’s essential to slow down for everyone’s safety. Although some situations require that you go faster, always try to maintain a moderate speed when approaching another vessel.

2.) Steer Clear of Government Vessels and Restricted Areas

Government vessels always have the right of ways. You shouldn’t be one their way when they pass by. It’s best to give them a safe space. It would be best if you always avoided other large vessels because of their limited maneuverability and sight.

Additionally, there are reasons why some areas are restricted, and most of the time, it’s for your safety. So, do all you can to avoid those areas.

3.) Steer to the Right When Approaching Another Powerboating

It can cause an accident if one boat steers right and the other steers left. So, when you’re approaching another boat head to head, it’s essential that both of you signal, and steer right as this would avoid a collision.

4.) Be Cautious of Other Boaters

Not many recreational boaters know their right of ways rules. So, you have to be careful. Always ensure that you keep a safe distance from other boaters to avoid accidents.

5.) Give Way When Overtaking

It’s important to signal and give way when overtaking to notify the other passenger because many times, the other driver might not know what’s going on. The reason is, you don’t want to be at fault if an accident happens. So, it’s best to avoid it by signaling and giving way.

6.) Keep your eyes on the road.

As the captain, your eyes should always be on the road. You have to be at alert for dive boaters, swimmers, kayaks, and obstacles you might come in contact with.

As a newbie powerboater, you must learn the rights of ways rules, for your safety, and that of the person in the other boat. If you’re confident in what you’ve learned and you’re looking for a boat rental service near you, then you shouldn’t look any further.

Boat Rental Services for You

We offer boat rental services in the Myrtle Beach area for boating lovers. You get to choose from our two boat options — the Pontoon, kayak or skiff boats; to spend with your family and loved ones. Give us a call now.

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