Aside from taking a boat exam, getting your boating license and adhering to all the various rules and regulations of operating a watercraft, there is also a certain etiquette that should be followed. With so many people on the water, cruising here and there, it's important that a certain decorum be followed and rules of etiquette observed so everyone can have an enjoyable time. Your boating license card will let authorities know that you have taken the required boat exam and you know what you're doing on the water, but it's up to you to learn common boating etiquette before you go out on the water. You'll likely be able to find literature outlining the correct way to handle yourself in marinas, boating stores and on the water.
It's always a good idea to be mindful of the waves you're leaving behind as you operate your watercraft. Those waves, known as the wake, can disrupt other boats and swimmers as you go by if you don't show some courtesy and slow down. Unsuspecting passengers on other boats could even be thrown overboard if the wake you leave is too bumpy to handle. It's not like leaving a wake will get your boating license taken away, but you won't make any friends among the other boaters. Slow down as you approach other boats or if swimmers are close by, and you'll reduce your wake.
Launching and docking areas are another place where lack of etiquette can result in frustration. When you're launching your boat, be sure to secure your belongings and take care of all tasks beforehand that you can. Taking extra time getting your boat in the water when there is a line up of people waiting to do the same will result in some angry boaters. The same holds true when you're refueling your boat. Don't move too slowly, or stand around and chitchat when others are waiting to add fuel to their boats. When you're docking or mooring your boat, follow any tips you learned while taking your boat exam, but also be sure to keep your lines away from any places where someone might trip on them.
If you like to use your boat as a traveling party, be mindful of other boaters when the noise levels start to escalate. If you receive any complaints, be sure to tone it down. It's even better if you never get to that point. Remember to observe any alcohol and boating laws so you don't lose your boating license privileges. Always keep in mind that you are sharing the water, and some people choose boating for the peaceful aspect of the activity and not the partying aspect. The same is true of noisy motors.
Practicing boating techniques that produce a lot of noise should be done when the least amount of other boaters are around. Keeping the water and your boat clean are other boating etiquette practices that should also be observed at all times. If you litter in the water, you may find yourself having to show your boating license to the authorities, but even if you don't, it's just common courtesy and common sense to keep the water as clean as possible for everyone else.
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Fun and safety go hand in hand. Get your boating safety the easy and safe way.
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