Monterey Boats 186MS, Owner'S Manual, Page: 26 / 254

26
MONTEREY
BOATS
Operation
Overtaking Situations
When one motor boat is overtaking another motor
boat, the boat that is being passed has the right of
way. The overtaking boat must make the adjust
-
ments necessary to provide clearance for a safe
passage of the other vessel. The boats should
sound the appropriate signals.
The General Prudential Rule
In obeying the Rules of the Road, due regard must
be given to all dangers of navigation and collision,
and to any special circumstances, including the
limitations of the vessels, which may justify a de
-
parture from the rules that is necessary to avoid
immediate danger or a collision.
Night Operation
Recreational boats are required to display naviga-
tion lights between sunset and sunrise and other
periods of reduced visibility such as fog, rain, haze,
etc. When operating your boat at night you should:
• Make sure your navigation lights are on and
working properly. Navigation lights warn others
of your position and course and the position and
course of other vessels.
• All navigation rules apply. If the bow light of
another vessel shows red, you should give way
to that vessel, if it shows green, you have the
right of way.
• Slow down and never operate at high speeds
when operating at night, stay clear of all boats
and use good common sense. Always be ready
to slow down or steer clear of other vessels,
even if you have the right-of-way.
• Avoid bright lights that can destroy night vision,
making it difficult to see navigation lights and
the lights of other boats. You and your passen-
gers should keep a sharp lookout for hazards,
other boats and navigational aids.
Navigation Aids
Aids to navigation are placed along coasts and
navigable waters as guides to mark safe water and
to assist mariners in determining their position in
relation to land and hidden dangers. Each aid to
navigation is used to provide specific information.
You should be familiar with these and any other
markers used in your boating area.
NOTICE:
Storms and wave action can cause buoys to
move. You should not rely on buoys alone to
determine your position.