© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co. Bass l
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Section 6
NAVIGATION RULES AND AIDS
Before operating the boat, review Safety in Section 2.
The following information outlines basic navigational rules. Boating regulations are
enforced by USCG, state and local authorities. You are subject to marine navigation
regulations for both federal and state waterways. For more information, contact the
USCG, state and local marine authorities. The navigational rules for U.S. waterways
can be found in the “Navigational Rules” publication. This publication can be found
at most marine supply stores, or you may contact the USCG or visit:
www.navcen.uscg.gov to view or download the publication.
Any boat 39 feet (12 meters) or longer must have a copy of the “Navigational Rules”
publication on board at all times. Failure to have this document on board can result
in penalties and/or fines.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
Boats with less maneuverability have right-of-way over more agile boats. You must
stay clear of a boat with right-of-way. Examples of boats with right-of-way are:
• Boats aground or not under command
• Boats with restricted maneuverability
• Boats engaged in fishing
• Non-motor boats (having no power propulsion), i.e., rowboats, paddle
boats, canoes and sailboats
Small pleasure boats must yield right-of-way to large commercial boats in narrow
channels. A boat with right-of-way is sometimes referred to as the privileged boat.
THE GENERAL PRUDENTIAL RULE
The general prudential rule regarding right-of-way is if a collision appears
unavoidable, neither boat has right-of-way. Both boats must act to avoid collision.
NAVIGATIONAL LIGHTS AND NIGHT OPERATION
Navigational lights alert other boats to your presence and course, especially when
operating at night or in restricted visibility conditions.
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