You should pass at a safe distance to the
port (left)
or starboard (right) side of the other boat. If a safe route exists, you should always attempt to pass the boat on the starboard side.
What side do boats pass each other UK?
When you do meet an approaching boat, keep to the right and pass ‘port-to-port’ (the
left side of your boat passes
the left side of the approaching boat).
Who has the right of way when boating?
The vessel that has the opposing boat coming up on its starboard side is called the give-way vessel. The boat coming in from the starboard side is called the stand-on vessel.
The stand-on vessel has the right
of way, and it is up to the give-way vessel to maneuver in a way that will avoid a collision.
What side do you pass a red buoy?
The expression “red right returning” has long been used by seafarers as a reminder that the red buoys are kept to
the starboard (right) side
when proceeding from the open sea into port (upstream). Likewise, green buoys are kept to the port (left) side (see chart below).
What is the minimum distance you should keep between boats?
Do not approach
within 100 yards
, and slow to minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel.
Why do boats pass on the right?
Most sailors were right handed
, so the steering oar was placed over or through the right side of the stern . Sailors began calling the right side the steering side, which soon became “starboard” by combining two Old English words: stéor (meaning “steer”) and bord (meaning “the side of a boat”).
What side of the channel markers do you stay on?
Keep this marker on your
right (starboard) side
when proceeding in the upstream (returning from sea) direction. Even numbers will be displayed and will increase as you head upstream.
What does a yellow buoy mark?
For those who are paddling or boating on intercoastal waterways, yellow buoys are used to designate
a channel
. When someone sees a yellow square, this is a sign that they need to keep the buoy to the port side. On the other hand, yellow triangles should stay to the starboard side of the boater.
What should you do if you see a red buoy?
Red buoys must be kept on the right side of a craft when proceeding in the upstream direction. A simple rule is red
to the right when returning
, or the three “R’s”: red, right, return. In many places, the direction of the current is determined by consensus or by the tide.
What buoy indicates safe water?
Safe Water Markers: These are
white with red vertical stripes
and indicate unobstructed water on all sides. They mark mid-channels or fairways and may be passed on either side. Mooring Buoys: These are white with a blue horizontal band.
Which side of a boat has a red light at night?
The red light indicates a
vessel’s port (left) side
; the green indicates a vessel’s starboard (right) side. Sternlight: This white light is seen only from behind or nearly behind the vessel.
How close to shore can you drive a boat?
To maintain a proper distance when you are operating at greater than “slow, no wake speed” (except in channels that are not posted), the vessel or persons being towed must not be
within 100 feet
of: A shoreline (if operating in water less than three feet deep) Any moored or anchored vessel.
How far away must you stay from a swimmers in the water?
Stay
within 300 feet (90 meters)
of the diver down flag or buoy in open water and 100 feet (30 meters) when diving in rivers, inlets or navigation channels.
What is considered a safe speed on a boat?
A safe speed is
a speed less than the maximum at which the operator
can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and stop within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
What is the most important passing rule?
In general, motorists should only entertain passing if they are
traveling at least 10 mph faster than the car they wish to pass
. Even then, waiting for a safe opportunity is essential. Remember that most situations require passing on the left-hand side of the vehicle in front.
What does 5 horn blasts mean?
Five (or more)
short, rapid blasts signal danger or signal that you do
not understand or that you disagree with the other boater’s intentions.
