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Table Of Contents
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BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD
RULES OF THE ROAD
Operation of your boat must be in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the waterway
on which it is used. Just as there are rules that apply when you are driving on streets and highways,
there are waterway rules that apply when you are operating your boat. These rules are used
internationally, and are also enforced by the United States Coast Guard and local agencies. You
should be aware of these rules, and follow them whenever you encounter another vessel on the
water.
Several sets of rules prevail according to geographic location, but are all basically the same as the
International Rules of the Road. The rules presented here in this Owner’s/Operator’s Manual are
condensed, and have been provided for your convenience only. Consult your local U.S. Coast Guard
Auxiliary or Department of Motor Vehicles for a complete set of rules governing the waters in which
you will be operating your boat.
Steering and Sailing Rules
Whenever two vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-of-way; it is called the
“standon” vessel. The vessel that does not have the right-ofway is called the “give-way” or “burdened”
vessel. These rules determine which vessel has the right-ofway, and what each vessel should do.
Stand-On Vessel
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.
Give-Way Vessel
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, you should not cross in front of the vessel with
the right-ofway. You should slow down or change directions briefly and pass behind the other vessel.
You should always move in such a way that the operator of the other vessel can see what you are
doing.
The General Prudential Rule regarding the right-of way is that if a collision appears unavoidable,
neither boat has the right-of-way. Both boats must avoid the collision. In other words, follow the
standard rules except when a collision will occur unless both vessels try to avoid each other. If that is
the case, both vessels become give-way vessels.
