Essential Boating Etiquette and Manners (Part 2)
We continue to share important boating etiquette that has been evolving and developing for hundreds of years.
Boating Etiquette
There are the actual rules which cover the do’s and don'ts of life on the water- just like the road rules. These are the written rules which you must follow, whether you have a boat licence or not.
The first part about boating manners dealt with the hard and fast rules of boating, those which have no grey areas. This article deals with the unwritten rules, the courtesies that the boating community extend to one another. Boating etiquette is about safe behaviour and what is socially acceptable.
As a result of the pandemic, there was a spike in boat sales and many people were out on the water as novices. It was obvious a good proportion of these people were not aware of the boating rules, as well as the courtesies of boating. So let’s take a look and do some revision.
Basic Manners
Even though there is no rule book concerning etiquette, there are certain courtesies every boatie (and their guests) should follow.
While the captain is responsible for all people aboard his vessel, he cannot be everywhere all the time. It’s a good idea, as a captain, to outline certain boat rules and behaviours to passengers before setting off for a day or weekend of fun on board.
The 6 basic rules for boating etiquette are:
1. Fuel Wharf, Dock and Boat Launching
When fuelling, get your fuel, pay for it and move out of the way quickly. If you need to wait for someone or buy ice and groceries, relocate to an area where you can stay without causing others to wait. Pay attention to time limits and pick up zones.
If you are launching, do so quickly and efficiently to allow others to do the same. Don’t drain, clean or unload your boat on the ramp if others are waiting.
2. Wake
Depending on the size and hull structure of your boat, wake can be a problem. Be familiar with your wake profile and adjust your speed and distance accordingly. Wake can be problematic for smaller vessels as well as fishermen, canoes and boats moored and anchored. Constant large wash can cause destructive damage to the precious shoreline as well.
Be sure to take notice of Marina rules regarding wash, together with speed limits and “no wash zones” on waterways. Take care not to follow in another vessel’s wake too closely, especially if they are towing people on boards or other vessels, such as tinnies.
3. Keep the Peace
There is nothing better that finding a little protected bay and staying the night on your boat. So be mindful of others who are enjoying the same peace. Sound travels long distances over water, so keep your music and voices to an acceptable level and finish at a reasonable hour. If you want to party, make sure you are well away from other boats and houses. Also turn off generators overnight. If you are anchoring, keep a safe distance from other vessels. Boats can move quite a long way with winds and tide movement.
4. Leave only Memories
Take all your rubbish back to land with you. Never throw anything overboard, this includes your prawn shells and salad leaves, other people don’t want to swim in your lunch!
Be very careful with plastics and cans and teach children to do the same, we want our waterways in a pristine condition to enjoy for many more generations.
5. Observe Marina Rules
Marinas are tightly knit places and it is important to get along with your fellow boaties. When boarding or unloading your boat, try to keep belongings off the walkways so as to allow others to pass easily. In the same vein, if you are working on your boat, keep your equipment, tools and gear clear of walkways.
Ensure your fenders, hoses and lines are neatly coiled and stored to prevent trip hazards and make sure you don’t interfere with other boat’s mooring lines.
Most boats practice mooring bow-first in the pen at the Marina. If you do this, be careful of where your bow and anchor is hanging over the walkway, for the safety of people passing by. Try not to run your boat for too long at the Marina, both when leaving and returning – exhaust fumes can be very unpleasant for fellow boat owners.
Turn off all the electrics, radio and navigation equipment, especially anything with an alarm, before leaving the boat. It’s a good idea to have a check list somewhere to make sure you don’t forget anything. Communication and respect amongst boat owners in the marina is very important, so get to know your neighbours.
6. Be Polite Guests
If you are invited to join a group of guests onboard a boat, make sure you are on time. Always bring something on the day for other guests as well as yourself and don’t presume you can invite any other guests or pets without checking with the captain first. Make sure you dress appropriately (bring a jacket for later in the day) and remember your sunscreen. Don’t board other vessels on the marina unless you are invited and ask the skipper before exploring the boat you are on.
Do not smoke onboard anyone’s boat! Remember the captain’s word is final and listen to instructions. Always offer to help to clean up at the end of the day and don’t forget to say thank you.
Enjoy the day!
Boating is one of life’s wonderful pleasures and we are so lucky to be able to enjoy our wonderful waterways. As with every recreation, there are always others to consider when sharing an area. A little common courtesy and general boating etiquette go a long way to making everyone’s experience a safe and happy one.
THE NEXT STEP
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