Nautical Rules of the Road - Boating Guide

Nautical Rules of the Road

Port: If a power-driven vessel approaches within this sector, maintain with caution, your course and speed.

Starboard: If any vessel approaches within this sector, keep out of its way.
(Note: This rule may not always apply if one or both vessels are sailboats.)

Stern: If any vessel approaches this sector, maintain with caution, your course and speed.

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Operating Rules

Boat operation is subject to a series of rules similar to those governing road traffic. The Collision Regulations and the Criminal Code of Canada are two valuable sources of information for anyone interested in more details on the regulations governing the operation of a vessel. The following are a few of the many rules they set down.

Rules of the Road

The rules of the road in navigation are often similar to the rules on land. The Collision Regulations contain many rules pertaining to navigation; however, four rules are basic to navigation.

A boat that is overtaking another must steer clear of the overtaken vessel's path.

A vessel approaching from the port side must give way. (A) keeps clear of and must avoid crossing ahead of (B).

When two vessels are heading toward each other, each must reroute and pass to the right of the other. (A) blows one blast and alters course to starboard, (B) blows one blast and alters course to starboard.

As a general rule, rowboats, sailing vessels and canoes have the right-of-way over power- driven boats. However, if one vessel is unable to maneuver as it normally would, the most maneuverable vessel gives way.

Responsibility for avoiding collisions is shared by everyone using the waterway. Common sense must be used along with alertness and caution.

The concept of taking early and substantial action must be applied in all cases.