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Chapter 3
Rules Of The Road
Navigation Rules Defined
The Navigation Rules set forth actions to be
followed by boats to avoid collision. They are
referred to as the “Rules of the Road”. There
are two main parts referred to as the inland and
international rules. The inland rules apply to
vessels operating inside the boundaries of the
United States. The international rules (referred to
as 72 COLREGS) apply to vessels operating on
the high seas and all connected waters outside
the established demarcation boundaries. Most
navigational charts show the demarcation lines by
red dotted lines and are published in the navigation
rules. Remember to consult state and local
agencies since areas such as “no wake zones,”
swimming beaches, “diver down flag” and inland
landlocked lakes fall under their responsibilities.
This section is only an introduction to the “rules
of the road”. We strongly recommend additional
training before getting behind the “wheel”.
Order Inland & International Navigation Rules from:
Superintendent of Documents
U. S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402
Tel: (202-512-1800) Fax:(202-512-2250
Navigation Rules
Right Of Way:
1. Cross waves at right angles.
2. When caught in heavy water or squalls, head
either directly into the waves or at a slight angle.
Reduce speed, but maintain enough power to
maneuver your boat safely.
3. Keep your speed under control. Respect the
rights of other boaters engaged in all water
sports. Give them plenty of operating room.
4. Whenever meeting a boat head on, keep to the
right where possible.
5. When two boats cross, the boat to the right
(starboard) has the right of way.
6. When overtaking or passing, the boat being
passed has the right of way.
7. In general, boats with less maneuverability have
right-of-way over more agile craft. The skipper
must keep his craft clear of the following ves-
sels:
8. A vessel not under command or aground; due
to their circumstances, these vessels have no
maneuverability.
TO AVOID INJURY AND DEATH!
FOLLOW THE NAVIGATION “RULES OF THE
ROAD” TO PREVENT COLLISIONS.
WARNING
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