Unwritten Rules of Boating

When it comes to boating, there are formal rules and laws that you must follow and there are informal, unwritten rules that are learned through experience. So whether you’re getting ready to rent your first pontoon boat or you rent a deck boat every summer from Beach Water Sports, we’ve put together a few tips on boating etiquette as a good reminder for anyone preparing to drive a boat. However, it is still important to remember your state’s boating and water regulations. Here’s a link to the guide for Florida.

Watch Your Wake

There are few speed limits on most waterways—the exception is 5 miles per hour “no wake” zones, which are usually clearly marked. Still, you are responsible for the impact of your wake at all times, which means you need to keep a good distance (at least 150 feet) from the shore or any swimming zones. And, reduce your wake when passing other boats to keep from disrupting their day on the water.

Be Generous with Space

If you come up on a slower moving boat, it’s important to be generous when creating space between your boat and theirs. Give the boat as much room as possible. And remember that few boats have rearview mirrors, so the driver might not see you right away. When you give more distance, you lessen the chance of a collision.

Carry In, Carry Out

“Carry in, carry out” should be common sense, but the persistence of trash on our shorelines is proof that it needs to be repeated. Plan for your trash and, whatever you do, don’t toss it overboard. For your fellow boaters, it’s an inexcusable misstep; for nature, it can damage fragile ecosystems. Best to avoid both.

All in all, boating is about having fun and being a part of a special community. When everyone on the water follows these unwritten rules, we’re all able to have a great time. At Beach Water Sports, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with high-quality, affordable boat rentals. For your next boating excursion in sunny Florida, request a quote online or contact us at (561) 745-6900 (Jupiter) or (772) 225-2000 (Stuart).