Wellcraft 180 Sportsman, Owner'S Manual

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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 adjustments 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 departure from the rules
that is necessary to avoid immediate danger or a
collision.
Night Operation
Recreational boats are required to display navigation
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 passengers
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.
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