©2017 Skier’s Choice, Inc.
26
Basic Boating Rules
You should be aware of these rules and follow them whenever
you encounter another vessel on the water.
The rules presented in this manual are condensed and have
been provided as a convenience only. Consult your local
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) or Department of Motor
Vehicles (DMV) for a complete set of rules governing the
waters in which you will be using your boat. If you plan to
travel—even for a short trip—you would be well served to
contact the regional USCGA or DMV in the area where you
will be boating.
Review and understand all local and state laws.
Any time 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 burdened vessel.
These rules determine which vessel has the right-of-way, and
accordingly, what each vessel should do.
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.
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, the give-way vessel should not cross
in front of the stand-on vessel. Slow down or change directions
briey and pass behind the other vessel. You should always
move in such a way that the stand-on operator can see what
you are doing.
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.”
Section 4
Boating Rules
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