Boating, like driving, comes with a set of unspoken rules that aren’t posted on signs or lanes in a road. These unwritten rules help keep everyone on the water safe and respectful. From understanding how to navigate channels to properly handling wakes, knowing boating etiquette will make you a more relaxed boater. Here’s a guide to help you navigate these unspoken rules.
Here is a screenshot of Navionics, highly recommend this app btw. It’s the St. Augustine Inlet, that small harbor on the northwest side is Camachee Cove, and just south of it is Vilano Ramp. The only navigation you see is the green and red buoys, getting around this area the first couple times was stressful and I ran aground cutting the channel early from Vilano Bridge to Bridge of Lions during low tide.
Which side do you drive on
On a road you have lanes to stick to, signs warning you to slow down, or speed limits. On the water is completely different, you must know the channels from a map and your depth to stay out of trouble.
Just like on the road, you should always stick to the right side of the channel. When you pass someone on a single lane road, you pass them on their left, same with boating.
Wakes
All boats create wakes, but how you manage them can make a big difference. Always be mindful of your wake, especially around smaller boats, kayaks, or when passing near docks.
- When Passing: If you need to pass another boat, do so slowly and at a safe distance. Aim to pass on their port side (left), but always make sure it’s safe before overtaking. Cross through their wake at a 45-degree angle to minimize any impact. Never blow past smaller boats, you will create big wakes for them to deal with.
- No Wake Zones: Always respect no wake zones, typically found near marinas, docks, and residential areas. These zones are there for safety, and to protect both people and property. We have a good number of these for manatees as well, so pay attention.
Launching Your Boat
If you’re new to boating, avoid learning how to launch your boat on a busy weekend. Ramps, like the Vilano Ramp in Florida, can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s best to practice launching during off-peak times to perfect your routine and avoid getting frustrated when people are trying to hurry you up. Don’t let anyone make you rush either, that’s when mistakes happen.
When launching, don’t take up the whole space by positioning your vehicle or boat in the middle of the ramp. Be considerate of other boaters, allowing them to launch alongside you. Share the space and others will return the favor.
Rules of the Road on the Water
Navigating the water is really easy once you get the feel for it, but there are no stop signs, lanes, or traffic signals. However, just like driving, there are right-of-way rules every boater should follow:
- Overtaking: When overtaking another boat, it’s customary to pass on their port side. Take care to go slow and avoid creating large wakes that might disrupt the other vessel.
- Head-On: When two boats approach head-on, both should steer to the right (starboard) to pass each other port-to-port (left side to left side). This is similar to how vehicles pass on the road.
- Intersections: If a boat is approaching from your starboard (right), it is the stand-on vessel and should maintain course and speed, while you must give way and pass behind it. If the other boat is to your port (left), it must give way to you, and you should maintain your course and speed.
Don’t Litter: Keep the Water Clean
One of the quickest ways to anger other boaters is by throwing trash overboard. This should be common sense, but sadly, it still happens. Littering is illegal. Bring trash bags with you, and make sure you dispose of everything properly once you’re back on land.
Mind Your Volume
Many modern powerboats come equipped with impressive sound systems, but it’s important to be considerate of others around you. Blasting music can disrupt the peaceful experience of other boaters nearby. Keep your music at a reasonable volume, especially in quiet or crowded areas.
Boaters Are Friendly: Lend a Hand
Boaters are often some of the friendliest people you’ll meet. If another boater needs help—whether it’s docking, launching, or dealing with an issue on the water—don’t hesitate to lend a hand. Boating is a community, and helping each other out is part of the experience.
The Courtesy Wave
Just like the friendly wave you give your neighbors, boaters use a courtesy wave when passing by. It’s a simple but respectful gesture that shows friendliness and acknowledges the shared experience of being out on the water.
Communicate Your Intentions
On the water, there are no turn signals. So, it’s important to exaggerate your course a little to show other boats your intentions.
When Boating on a Friend’s Boat
When you’re invited onto someone else’s boat, remember that it’s their day. Respect their schedule and don’t impose your own. Avoid saying things like, “I need to be home in two hours.” If you’re on someone else’s boat, follow their lead and enjoy the day as they planned it.
Tubing Etiquette
Tubing can be a blast, but don’t be the person who anchors where others are trying to enjoy the water. The Intracoastal Waterway and the St. Johns River are vast, with plenty of room for everyone. Be mindful of where others are boating or enjoying water sports and leave space for them to have fun.
Boating Etiquette Recap:
- Launch Considerately: Practice launching during off-peak times, and share the space at ramps.
- Manage Your Wake: Avoid creating large wakes around smaller boats or no-wake zones.
- Respect the Rules of the Water: Know the right-of-way and overtaking rules, and follow them to stay safe.
- Keep the Water Clean: Don’t litter; bring your trash back to shore.
- Mind Your Noise Levels: Keep music at a reasonable volume out of respect for others.
- Be Friendly: Lend a hand to fellow boaters and give a friendly wave.
- Communicate Clearly: Make your movements and intentions clear to other boaters.
- Respect Others’ Boats: If you’re a guest on someone’s boat, follow their lead and respect their time.
Learning all these can feel overwhelming but the majority of them are natural responses. In the beginning, just takes things slow. When you get more comfortable you’ll be faster at launching and docking.