While operating a boat, safety is always the top priority. When waterways begin to get crowed on a popular boating weekend, it’s important to know the “Rules of the Road” out on the water so you can avoid accidents and operate your vessel comfortably and confidently. The knowledge of how to navigate a traffic jam on the road is just as important on the water and a fundamental tool when navigating your boat safely.
Tips to navigate safely:
- Drive Slowly
- Be aware of other boaters around you
- Avoid all government vessels
- Give way if you need to
The image to the left is a “right of way” pyramid that details which vessels have priority on the water. As you can see, Emergency craft have priority while power driven boats are at the bottom, and are expected to provide safe waterways and give way to the majority of other boat crafts.
Check out the video below to refresh yourself on the right of way when operating your boat!