Basic Seamanship - Four winns SL Series Owner's Manual

C - 1 GENERAL
Basic rules of seamanship, general information about
navigational aids, and sources for additional reading
and boater education are presented in this portion of
your owner's manual.
A. Boating Regulations
The US Coast Guard is the authority of the waterways.
State boating regulations are enforced by local au-
thorities. Your boat is subject to the marine traffic laws
known as "Rules of the Road," which are enforced by
the US Coast Guard. You are subject to marine traffic
laws and "Rules of the Road" for both federal and state
waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by en-
forcement officers, and permit them to board if asked.
The "Navigational Rules, International-Inland Rules of
the Road" can be obtained from the US Coast Guard
website at www.uscgboating.org.
Many pamphlets prepared by the US Coast Guard are
available. They explain signal lights, buoys, safety, in-
ternational and inland regulations and other information
which goes beyond the scope of this manual. "Aids to
Navigation" (US Coast Guard pamphlet #123) explains
the significance of various lights and buoys. Because of
proposed alterations to buoys and markers, contact the
US Coast Guard or visit their website to stay informed
of changes. Other pamphlets, including the "Boating
Safety Training Manual" and "Federal Requirements
For Recreational Boats," are also available from the US
Coast Guard.
NOTICE
The spoken word "MAYDAY" is the interna-
tional signal for distress. "MAYDAY" should
NEVER be used unless there is grave
or imminent danger, and you are in need
of immediate assistance.
B. Rules of Seamanship
1. Right-of-way
In general, boats with less maneuverability have right-
of-way over a more agile craft. You must stay out of the
way of the following vessels:
Basic Seamanship - Section C

Basic Seamanship

2. Meeting Head-On
When two boats meet head-on neither boat has
right-of-way. Both boats should decrease speed and
pass; port to port. However, if both boats are on the
left side of a channel, each vessel should sound two
short horn blasts and pass to starboard to starboard.
See Figure C1.
Honk
Honk
Honk
Figure C1: Meeting Head-On
3. Crossing Situations
In a crossing situation, the boat on the right from
the 12-4 o'clock position has the right-of-way. It must
hold course and speed. The boat without the right-
of-way must keep clear and pass to the stern.
See Figure C2.
Honk
Honk
Honk
Honk
Honk
Owner's Manual Page 37