How to Use Navigation Rules to Avoid Boating Collisions

The Inland Navigation Rules help ensure that two boats do not collide on the water - much as rules for driving a car do on land. The U.S. Coast Guard enforces these rules on waters connected with the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans, or the Gulf of Mexico.

General Right-of-Way Rules

1. Yield the right-of-way to divers in every case.


2. Look for vessels with the international code flag "A" or alpha, either red and white or blue and white, which indicates the presence of divers in the area.


3. If you are on a sailboat, assume the right-of-way over all powerboats, except when you are overtaking another boat.


4. Give way to commercial fishing boats or large ships in narrow channels or confined areas.

Two Sailboats

1. Yield the right-of-way to a boat on starboard tack if your boat is on port tack.


2. Yield the right-of-way to a leeward boat if you are windward and on the same tack.


3. Yield the right-of-way to a boat that is ahead if you are an overtaking boat or are otherwise astern.


4. Yield the right-of-way to a moving boat if you are coming about or jibing.

Two Powerboats

1. Pass port side to port side.


2. Yield the right-of-way to the boat on port side if you are on the starboard side and you must cross paths. To keep clear, alter your course and pass astern, or slow down until the other boat passes.


3. Yield the right-of-way to the boat ahead if you're an overtaking boat.

Remember:

• These rules also apply to sailboats running under an engine.
• Large ships are prone to a "blind spot" that can stretch for hundreds of feet in front of them. Such ships have a longer stopping distance, move with deceptive speed, and can block your wind from a long distance making it difficult for you to maneuver.
• Larger ships can also cause turbulent waters that might toss your boat around. Approach carefully in all cases.