Boating Etiquette do’s and don’ts

Most Important!
You are a guest on board the boat! If you have any questions, problems, or concerns let your captain and/or crew know about it they are there to help you.

Before you book your trip, ask if there are any special "rules" regarding smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol, then abide by the boat rules or find a different boat.

Try to bring a minimum of clothing that will be suitable for the weather and pack your gear in a duffel bag or other soft-sided, collapsible luggage to make it easy to store your things out of the way.

Make sure you bring a good pair of non-skid deck shoes.

Make sure you bring your legal documents and ID. Remember all persons fishing on the vessel need fishing licenses.

It is very easy to get dehydrated when boating. Remember to pack some bottled water and drink it.

Boating activities multiply alcohol’s intoxicating effects. The hot sun, wind, rough ocean movements and the boats vibration all contribute to what’s called “boater’s fatigue.” This means that one beer on the water will most likely have the effect of two or three beers at home.

Familiarize yourself with safety and emergency procedures before leaving the dock.

Know the location of the boat’s fire extinguisher. Fires are very serious aboard a boat.

Everyone on board must have a clear understanding of who is in command.

Make sure someone onboard is able to take over and operate the VHF radio to ask for help should the captain and/or crew become disabled.

Each year roughly 700 people die in boating-related accidents; nine out of ten of these victims were not wearing a life jacket.

There is no law stating to use a life jacket so make sure you know where they are located if you decide not to use them.

Only grab spots on the boat that are solid. Grab onto the actual boat or a handrail.

Expect minor cuts and bruises. It is common for minor mishaps to happen on a boat.

Other frequent accidents during fishing season involves hooks. To avoid this, most first mates will cast for you then pass the rod to you once the hook has been set.

Do avoid intense sun exposure if possible. Remember water reflects UV light back to you. Wear long sleeves, a wide brimmed hat, put on sunglasses (sunglasses should be polarized to cut the glare and protect against UVA and UVB radiation) and use sunscreen.

Do apply the sunscreen (fairly liberally, approx 2mm thick) for it to work. It's better to put it on 30-60 minutes before going out in the sun, so it can penetrate into the skin.