LETS DO THIS TOGETHER

Respect the Environment

A electric surfboard can take you to some amazing places. As a responsible rider it is essential that you are aware of areas where extra precaution must be taken.

Like any other type of watercraft a rider must obey the nautical “rules of the road”, safety guidelines that detail how riders should respond in various scenarios. Know your Collision Regulations which applies to every vessel and operator on all navigable waterways.

Having your Pleasure Craft Operating Card is the absolute best way to ensure your time on the water is spent safely and will ensure that you know how to handle various situations that may arise, from understanding navigational markers to understanding who has the right of way when encountering another watercraft.

It’s important to practice proper boating etiquette while out on the water. Here are five of the most common situations you may encounter, and the best way to respond to keep both yourself and others safe as you hit the water.

Mandatory safety equipment:

• Life jacket
• Whistle
• water-type Flash light in lower light

National parks:

• Review permit requirements prior to heading into the National Parks.
• Inspections of watercraft are mandatory

 

Launching:

• Launch in a water depth of 36 inches - minimum
• Be respectful of wake zones in the area


1. Meeting another watercraft head on

Unlike the roadway, on the water riders don’t have the benefit of lanes to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Should you encounter another boater head-on, close enough to risk collision, the rules of the road dictate that both craft should:

• Keep to their right (starboard) side, allowing the approaching craft to safely pass by along their left (port) side. 


2. Approaching another watercraft from behind

When approaching, or coming up on a slower watercraft traveling the same direction, from behind, 

• Allow the watercraft ahead to maintain its course and speed.
• Only when it is safe to do so, meaning you have adequate room and no other boating traffic in the vicinity, should you attempt to safely pass the craft on whichever side you deem the safest course. 
• Should this encounter happen in a narrow channel, passing the vessel on the right is considered the preferred option. 

 

3. Encountering another watercraft at a right angle

Yet another common scenario is encountering another watercraft moving at a right angle to your current path, where if both watercrafts were to continue there would be the potential for a collision. In this case:

• The boat to the right is considered to have the right of way. Hint? 
• Think of it like two cars arriving at a four-way stop at the same time. 
• The car to the right is considered to have the right of way, and should be the first car to proceed. 
• In nautical terms, the watercraft to the right is considered the “stand-on vessel” and has the right of way to continue along their path. 
• The “give-way” vessel is required to slow or stop to let the stand-on vessel safely pass.

Exceptions to the rule?

• If the other watercraft is not powered, like a sailboat or canoe, 
• Is in the process of actively fishing, 

That vessel has the right of way regardless of its position. It’s your responsibility to give them plenty of room and change your path accordingly.

Approaching any other watercraft when you’re unclear about the rules and the risk of collision is imminent. Here:
• Common sense prevails.
• If you’re unsure what to do in any situation, both craft should immediately slow and yield the right of way.

4. Riding in the vicinity of another watercraft: As to the common question of how close you can ride to another watercraft:

• keep at least a 200’ cushion between your craft and other watercraft, even if they’re members of your same group. 
• Always turn and look over your shoulder before making a turn to ensure another watercraft hasn’t come up alongside or slightly behind you. 
• When approaching a stopped watercraft, always slow your speed well in advance to avoid a collision. 

 

5. Resist the urge to jump the wake of a passing watercraft

Not only is it not wise, as visibility is limited and other watercraft may not see you, it’s illegal in most areas. Likewise, avoid the temptation of splashing or “roosting” a friend.

Even experienced boaters have misjudged the distance, found their craft slid more than expected, or had a wave unexpectedly affect their path.

6. Prohibited riding areas:

This is to protect fragile ecosystems. Shallow waters are often warmer and attracts marine life. Before you head out on the water; check for areas you need to be aware of. When encountering wildlife be sure to move over, slow down and give them lots of space.

• It’s important to remember that the lake bottom can be closer to the surface that you realize.
• If you want to view the shoreline, swim over and enjoy.

• Slow down and be on the look out.


Ultimately:

Stay alert and pay attention to your surroundings. 

Impaired driving on the water is illegal and extremely dangerous to yourself and others.

Obtaining a boating license is recommended.

Operate defensively and the fun will continue for seasons to come!


STAY SAFE FELLOW RIDERS AND LETS ENGOY THE WATERS SAFELY AND WITH GOOD ETIQUETTE!

THANK YOU!

Team JetBrada