These rules determine which vessel has the right of way, and accordingly, what
each vessel should do.
The vessel with the right-of-way has the duty to continue its course and speed,
except to avoid an immediate collision. When you maintain your direction and speed, the
other vessel will be able to determine how best to avoid you.
The vessel that does not have the right of way has the duty to take positive and
timely action to stay out of the way of the stand-on vessel. Normally, the give-way vessel
should not cross in front of the stand-on vessel, but should slow down or change direction
briey and pass behind the other vessel. You should always move in such a way that the
stand-on operator can see what you are doing if you are operating the give-way vessel.
Rules When Encountering Vessels
There are three (3) main situations in which you may encounter other vessels, and
you must avoid a collision. These are:
• Meeting (you are approaching another vessel head-on).
• Crossing (you are traveling across the other vessel’s path).
• Overtaking (you are passing or being passed by another vessel).
2013 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge • Page 1-27
Just as there are rules that apply when driving a vehicle on the street, there are
waterway rules that apply when you are driving a boat on the water. These rules are
used internationally, and they are enforced by the United States Coast Guard and local
agencies. You should be aware of these rules and follow them whenever you encounter
another vessel on the water.
In various geographic locations, certain rules prevail that may be unique to the
locale. Each state also has laws and boating limitations that may be applicable only within
their boundaries. It is the operator’s responsibility to seek out this information and become
familiar with all safety-related information, laws and rules governing boating operation.
The rules presented in this Owner’s Manual are condensed and have been provid-
ed for convenience only. Consult your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA), Depart-
ment of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for a complete
set of rules governing the waters in which you will be using your boat. If you plan to
travel—even for a short trip—you would be well-served to contact the regional USCGA,
DMV or DNR in the area where you will be boating. Often, basic information is available
through websites sponsored and prepared by these organizations and governing bodies.
Steering and Sailing Rules/Sound Signals
Any time two (2) vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-
of-way. It is called the stand-on vessel. The vessel that does not have the right-of-way is
called the give-way or burdened vessel.
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