SAFETY-6
national Rules. The United States Inland
Navigational rules apply to all vessels oper-
ated within the demarcation lines separating
inland and international waters. The United
States Coast Guard publishes the “Rules
of the Road” in its publication “Navigational
Rules, International-Inland”. You can obtain
a copy of this publication from your local
United States Coast Guard Unit or the Unit-
ed States Coast Guard Headquarters, 1300
“E” Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20226.
Other helpful publications available from the
United States Coast Guard include, “Aids to
Navigation” (Pamphlet #123), which explains
the signifi cance of various lights and buoys;
“Boating Safety Training Manual”; “Federal
Requirements For Recreational Boats”. Be
certain to check with your local United States
Coast Guard station, your Silverton Dealer
or a local marina concerning navigational
aids unique to your yachting area.
It is impossible to establish rules for every
type of yachting situation. Therefore, it is ex-
tremely important to use common sense and
good judgement when operating your yacht.
Some of the basic rules to follow are:
Always adhere to navigational rules to
avoid collisions.
Less maneuverable boats generally have
the right-of-way. Always steer clear of the
Stand-on vessel (boat having the right-of-
way) and pass to its stern in a crossing
situation.
If a collision appears unavoidable, BOTH
vessels must act IMMEDIATELY. Prudence
ALWAYS takes precedence over the right-
of-way rules if a collision is imminent.
NEVER send a “MAYDAY” message un-
less there is a serious emergency and you
are in need of immediate assistance.
Be certain you understand important termi-
nology distinctions:
Power Driven Vessel
A boat propelled by an engine, in-
cluding a sailboat propelled by an
engine and sails.
Sailing Vessel
A boat propelled by sail only, with no
engine in operation.
Vessel Engaged In Fishing
A commercial fi shing boat with appa-
ratus that restricts its maneuverability
(does not include trolling lines or
other apparatus that does not restrict
its maneuverability).
Vessel With Restricted Maneuverability
Any vessel, due to it size, draft, or
cargo, that is restricted in its ability to
maneuver in a certain waterway.
Underway
Any vessel not anchored, not made
fast to shore and not aground, wheth-
er or not it is under power or sail.
Basic Rules of Navigation
Power driven vessels must give the right
of way to the following:
A vessel unable to maneuver.
A vessel whose maneuverability
is restricted.
A sailing vessel.
Sailing vessels must give the right of way
to the following:
A vessel unable to maneuver.
A vessel whose maneuverability
is restricted.
A vessel engaged in commercial
fi shing.
To Next Page
Loading...