Navigation Rules Review
We hope you now have a solid understanding of the navigation rules for power-driven vessels. The most important point to remember is that even if you believe you have the right of way, you cannot force it. The rules make it very clear: safety is paramount, and you must always maintain a safe distance from other vessels.
The basic “Rules of the Road” for power-driven vessels are:
Avoiding Collisions: You must act to avoid a collision, even if you are the Stand-On vessel. Safety is the priority, and taking early action to avoid a dangerous situation is essential.
Meeting Head-On: When two power-driven vessels meet head-on, both should turn to starboard (right) so that they pass each other port-to-port (left side to left side).
Crossing Situations: If two power-driven vessels are crossing and there is a risk of collision, the vessel on the starboard (right) side is the Stand-On vessel and should maintain its course and speed. The vessel on the port (left) side must Give Way.
Overtaking: If a power-driven vessel is overtaking another, the overtaking vessel must keep clear of the vessel being overtaken, regardless of the direction. Note: this applies to ANY vessel overtaking another vessel, such as a sailing vessel overtaking a powerboat, the overtaking vessel shall keep out of the way of the other vessel. In this case, the overtaking sailboat shall keep out of the way of the powerboat.
The Sailboat Gives Way to the Powerboat as it Overtakes
Navigation in Narrow Channels: When navigating in a narrow channel, power-driven vessels must stay to the starboard side of the channel to allow safe passage for other vessels.
Contact bearing: When another boat coming towards you has a constant compass bearing, you are on a collision course.
Obstructions: Power-driven vessels must give way to vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver, such as those engaged in fishing, towing, or constrained by their draft.
Sound Signals: Use sound signals to communicate your intentions to other vessels, especially when visibility is limited or in close-quarters situations. In fog use 1 prolonged sound lasting 4-6 seconds every 2 minutes.
Give way to all other Vessel Types: Recreational powerboats are the most maneuverable. For this reason, the rules made you the lowest of the totem pole.
Remember, these are just a few of the rules that apply to power-driven vessels. For a complete understanding, please refer to the full regulations at NavRules Amalgamated.
As a final piece of advice, always keep a whistle or horn within easy reach. Effective communication is key to safe navigation, and having a sound-making device allows you to alert other vessels to your presence. In fact, the rules require you to have a sound-making device on board to ensure clear communication on the water.
