What Rules of the Water Must Be Obeyed?
Just like on land when driving a car, there are rules of the road. So it is with boating, there are rules of the water.
With the wide open spaces of lakes, large rivers and oceans, you wouldn’t think it would be necessary to have rules like the traffic laws we obey on the road.
But it’s just as important on the water that everyone has the same understandings and expectations of one another so that chaos and accidents can be avoided.
During the summer on Lake Washington in Seattle, it’s amazing how many boats, motorized and wind powered, share the lake for recreation. Some days you wonder if the lake could accommodate any more boats, and why there aren’t any more accidents than there are.
The thing that enables all of these boaters to have a safe and enjoyable day on the water is obeying the rules of the water.
Rules of the water for sailboats
There aren’t a lot of rules, but the ones that do exist are very important to obey.
Cars in the U.S. drive on the right side of the road. When two sail boats are approaching:
- Opposite tack - A boat on port tack should give way to a boat on starboard tack.
- Same tack – A boat traveling upwind should stay clear of a boat traveling down wind.
- Overtaking – It is the responsibility of the boat that is overtaking to steer clear of the other vessel.
- Power boats should always give way to sailboats.
- Courtesy is always the best rule to follow.
These are the rules, but as with all rules, not everyone is going to obey them. It is up to the individual to be cautious and sail defensively.
Happy Sailing
I hope you will follow my sailing posts and like my Facebook Page.
Once I complete the licensing requirements, I will be offering sailing lessons through the local sailing schools. I would be honored to have you in one of my classes. Watch for updates!
