Basic Boating Rules - Skier's Choice Supra Boats SV 2024 Owner's Manual

BASIC BOATING RULES

You should be aware of these rules and follow them
whenever you encounter another vessel on the water.
The rules presented in this manual are condensed and
have been provided as a convenience only. Consult your
local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) or Department
of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for a complete set of rules gov-
erning the waters in which you will be using your boat.
If you plan to
travel—even for a short trip—you would be well served to
contact the regional USCGA or DMV in the area where
you will be boating.
Review and understand all local and state laws.
Any time two vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-of-way. It is called the stand-on
vessel. The vessel which does NOT have the right-of-way is called the give-way or burdened vessel.
These rules determine which vessel has the right-of-way, and accordingly, what each vessel should do.
The vessel with the right-of-way has the duty to continue its course and speed, except to avoid an immediate
collision. When you maintain your direction and speed, the other vessel will be able to determine how best to
avoid you.
The vessel which does not have the right-of-way has the duty to take positive and timely action to stay out of
the way of the stand-on vessel. Normally, the give-way vessel should not cross in front of the stand-on vessel.
Slow down or change directions briefl y and pass behind the other vessel. You should always move in such a
way that the stand-on operator can see what you are doing. This rule is called Rule 2 in the International Rules
and says, "In obeying and construing these rules due regard shall be had to all dangers of navigation and colli-
sion, and to any special circumstances, which may render a departure from the above rules necessary in order
to avoid immediate danger."
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