Common-sense boating etiquette

Boaters are typically a cheerful bunch. And why not? Sunshine, fresh air, and rippling water are enough to put anyone in a good mood. But every now and then, a “rules-don’t-apply-to-me” boater can cast a dark cloud over an otherwise perfect day.

Fortunately, boating etiquette isn’t complicated. A little awareness, patience, and consideration go a long way toward making the water friendlier for you and everyone around you.

Here are some courteous tips to keep in mind:

1. Passing: Keep it predictable. When you meet or cross paths with another boat, think “right-of-way” rules like driving, but with more space and fewer lane lines.
   • In general, yield to traffic approaching from your right (starboard) side. That’s why your green running light is on the starboard side and your red running light is on the port side.
   • Passing is fine if it’s safe and steady. Don’t force another boat to change course, and don’t squeeze through tight traffic.
   • Use sound signals when appropriate.
     • One short blast: “I’m passing you on your starboard side.”
     • Two short blasts: “I’m passing you on your port side.”
2. Slow down: Your wake is your responsibility. Your boat’s horsepower is part of the fun, but your wake can be someone else’s headache.
   • When approaching a slower boat, ease off. A large wake can rock a smaller craft that’s out for a calm cruise.
   • If passing boats at anchor, slow down early. People at anchor aren’t expecting much movement. A big wake might send drinks, dinner plates, and passengers sliding.
   • Be the boater they’ll be glad to see again. You never know, you might have to circle back that way again.
3. Anchoring: Give everyone room to swing.  Anchoring is where good neighbors are made—or not.
   • Check swing radius before dropping anchor. Boats move with wind and current, and nobody wants tangled anchor lines.
   • Think about noise and wind direction. If you’re bringing the energy of music, a lively group, etc., anchor downwind of others when possible. If you’re looking for quiet, anchor upwind and farther away from the action.
4. Lend a hand: Boating is a team sport. One of the best parts of boating culture is how often people step in to help.
   • At the dock, ramp, or fuel station, offer a quick assist. Holding a line, fending off a piling, or steadying a boat are small acts that can make a big difference to a fellow boater.
   • If you see a boat in trouble, stop if it’s safe. Running out of gas or having mechanical issues happens, and boaters remember who showed up to help.
5. Keep it quiet: Sound travels fast over water.  What seems like background noise on your boat can carry clearly across the marina or anchorage.
   • Keep voices and music at a considerate level, especially in the evening.
   • At night near anchored boats, skip the outboard when you can. If you’re in a dinghy, oars are often the more neighborly option.
6. Marina manners: Leave the dock better than when you found it.  Marinas run smoothly when everyone does the basics.
   • Keep your area shipshape. Stow hoses, cords, buckets, extra lines, and tackle so walkways stay clear.
   • Return shared equipment. The next boater will appreciate it.
   • At the fuel dock, fuel up and move on. Even if there’s no line, someone may be waiting. If you need snacks or bait, head to a guest slip or another dock area.
7. Boat launch basics: Prep before you hit the ramp.  Ramps get busy quickly, especially when a picture-perfect day hits.
   • Do your prep in the staging area. Load gear, remove tie-downs, and get ready before you’re on the ramp.
   • On the ramp, launch and move. Don’t drain, clean, or reorganize there.
   • After launching, move to the courtesy dock. This makes way for the next boater to launch.
   • At the end of the day, be efficient. Drop off your driver and pull out smoothly when your rig is ready.
8. Sharing water with sailboats: Protect their wind and space. Sailboats maneuver differently, and they need room.
   • When overtaking a sailboat, pass well to leeward. Or pass astern in a crossing situation so you don’t block their wind.
   • Give extra clearance. Sailboats need a wider turn radius.
   • Avoid crossing close in front. Also, avoid throwing a wake that disrupts their momentum.
9. Courtesy around fishing boats: Respect the lines. Fishing boats may have lines out farther than you think.
   • Don’t cut behind a fishing boat. Watch for trolling lines and steer clear so you don’t snag them.
   • Give them a wide berth. Try not to pass within 40 yards around a fishing boat.
   • Avoid crossing in front of a boat that’s trolling. An exception would be sailboats which have the right of way.
10. Watch for skiers and wakeboarders: Give them room to ride. When someone’s being towed, there’s a boat, plus a person and a tow line, to consider.
    • Don’t follow too closely. If you need to pass, give a wide berth.
    • Pay attention to patterns on the lake. Some lakes require towing in a counterclockwise direction. If there aren’t posted rules, stay alert and approach carefully.

The simplest rule on the water

Most boaters want the same thing you do: a relaxed, safe day out on the water. If someone makes a mistake, a little patience—and little space—can help keep everyone sailing smoothly.

Keep the fun afloat

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This article is for informational purposes only and includes information widely available through different sources. This article does not afford, offer, or guarantee any coverage.