3-10
BASIC RULES OF THE ROAD
Whistle/Horn Signals
Signaling other boats with a whistle or horn is similar to using turn signals
on an automobile. It is not necessary to sound a signal every time a boat is
nearby. In general, boat operators should signal their intention to avoid
potentially confusing or hazardous situations.
It is customary for the privileged boat to signal first, and the give-way boat
is to return the same signal to acknowledge she understands and will comply.
Use the danger signal (five or more short and rapid blasts) if intent is not
clear.
Use the following signal blasts early enough to be noticed and understood by
other boaters:
One long blast: Warning signal (coming out of a slip or passing astern)
One short blast: Pass on my port side
Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard side
Three short blasts: Engines in reverse
Five or more short and rapid blasts: Danger Signal!
Privileged Boats
Privileged boats have right-of-way and can hold course and speed.
Sailboats and boats paddled or rowed have the right-of-way over motor boats.
Sailboats under power are considered motorboats.
Small pleasure craft must yield to large commercial boats in narrow
channels.
Burdened Boats
The burdened boat is the boat that must make whatever adjustment to
course and speed necessary to keep out of the way of the privileged boat.
Crossing Situation
In crossing situations, the boat to the right from the 12 o’clock to the
4 o’clock position has the right-of-way. It must hold course and speed. The
burdened boat keeps clear and passes behind the privileged boat. Boats
going up and down a river have the privilege over boats crossing the river.
Meeting Head-On
Neither boat has the right of way in this situation. Both boats should
decrease speed, turn to the right and pass port to port. If both boats are on
the left side of the channel, each vessel should sound two short blasts and
pass starboard to starboard.
PASSING
PORT TO PORT
MEETING
HEAD TO HEAD
PASSING
STARBOARD TO STARBOARD
HONK
HONK
HONK
HONK
HONK
HONK
3-11
Summary of Contents for Multi-sport Inboard Boat
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