A sea is a place as beautiful as it is dangerous. That’s why learning and knowing the right gestures is essential to ensure our safety and that of your passengers. Here is a compilation of advice and good gestures to adopt when going out at sea in your Stacer boat (or whatever type of boat you have).

Rules on Passing a Boat

There is more to the “Rules of the Road” between you and the other vessel. You need to respect the distance between you and other people’s boats. You need to watch your wake, depth conditions, and limited space. Be mindful of your speed and the speed of the other boat. Consider the effect on smaller boats and their passengers.

• When it comes to passing other watercraft, the direction is important. Do you pass to the port side or the starboard side? There is a right way and a wrong way. Some boaters think if there is no risk of a collision then they are free to go underway however they wish. However, that’s not the case. Your boat and your wake are your responsibility. Even if your boat doesn’t cause damage, you can be held legally responsible if your wake does. The waves created by your wake could potentially knock a person overboard.

• You should always give as much room as possible when overtaking a vessel. The depth conditions will determine just how much room you can give.

• The stand-on vessel is the one that has the right of way. The give-way vessel should accommodate the stand-on vessel. You should also slow your speed to reduce your wake. A slower boat will get rocked by a faster boat’s wake. This can be very disruptive.

• If a boat is stationary, be considerate. Give it a wide clearance. Reduce speed so you don’t swamp it. Stationary boats are usually used for fishing, swimming, or even cleaning the boat’s exterior hull.

• It's important to reduce your speed when another boat is overtaking you to avoid producing a bigger wake. Additionally, it's crucial to remain on course when being overtaken and maintain your speed or slow down if necessary. Remember, both boats have an equal responsibility to avoid any potential collisions.

• If you are going by a boat head-on, both vessels should turn to starboard and pass port to port. If this is not possible, then you need to signal the other boaters or vice versa. Human-powered boats, like kayaks, sailboats, and canoes, have the right of way over any vessel.

• When you encounter another boat that has limited maneuverability, it is considered a stand-on vessel. This means that you should adjust your course and speed to avoid any accidents. The vessel may be restricted in its movements due to its size or the activity it is engaged in. Regardless of the reason, it is important to prioritize safety and prevent any collisions. Remember that this rule must be a priority over all others.

Tips for Mooring Your Boat

Never drop anchor in a channel. The channel serves as the highway of the sea. It’s similar to parking your car in the middle of a highway. However, don’t worry about making these mistakes as channels are marked by red and green buoys. Head into an anchorage or mooring at a low speed. Never get too close to other anchored vessels. If the wind or currents change, your anchor lines can become tangled. This could cause a real problem. Pay attention to the wind. You want to be downwind if you’re having a party, listening to music, or cooking food.

Tips for Being Around Other Boats in the Marina

Fueling up at the fuel dock offers limited time and space. Remember that other boats may be waiting to get into the spot you’re in. Fuel up quickly and then move on. Don’t stop to socialize or even head out to run errands. You’re expected to get other items or hang out with friends on your own time.

If you’re at a boat launch or ramp, make sure you follow the same procedure. Be quick but safe to allow others to move their boats. No need to clean or drain the boat on the ramp. Get the tow vehicle to move your vessel in or out quickly. Offer a hand to others in the marina if you see them in need. There isn’t always a dockmaster handy. If someone is docking or undocking, offer to grab a line. Remember to always follow and respect the speed limit in the marina. Keep your space clean. Stow ropes and other gear safely and neatly. No one likes a messy slip. It looks bad and can be dangerous.

Tips for Passengers on Boats

If you’re the captain, let any guests know your rules before the launch. Alert them ahead of time so they can be prepared for their stay.

Make sure everyone knows what duties they may have to perform. Also, let them know where life jackets are located and teach them how to use them. Make sure everyone knows safety procedures. At least one other passenger should be able to take over for the captain in the event of an emergency. That includes operating the VHF radio. Explain the rules of behaviour. Give a walkthrough of the space and facilities. Don’t forget to tell them all the functions of your marine equipment inside your boat so nobody will accidentally misuse or play with the equipment.

Sadly, some boaters don’t follow the obvious rules. However, you don’t have to be like them. Don’t do things you know are wrong just because you see another boater doing it. Set a good example to these reckless boaters. It’s better to be humble in a sticky situation than to make it worse by trying to go it alone.