There are many rules of the road to learn. However, a few basic ones are absolutely necessary for sailing safely in our area.

In addition, you must monitor VHF channel 16 at all times. Monitoring channel 13 is also helpful because the commercial operators tend to use that channel to communicate as they conduct their operations in the harbor. 


When navigating in or around shipping channels like we do in the harbor, we must observe certain basic rules. 


    • BSC boats, in general, avoid commercial vessels such as water taxis and tugboats. 


    • We stay out of the channel if there is a large ship steaming thru the channel. These ships cannot get out of the channel due to their draft. They move faster than they appear to, and they also cannot stop quickly.


    • When crossing the channels, we travel perpendicular to the channel at a brisk pace to clear it fast. 


    • Otherwise, we try to stay on the right side of the channel in either direction. When sailing, this is not always possible.


    • If we encounter another vessel, we pass port to port by changing course to starboard as necessary. 


    • If we observe a vessel on a collision course, we make a substantial course change to make our intentions clear and early enough to avoid a collision. 


    • Power boats are expected to keep clear of sailing boats. Many do not know this or too distracted to notice the situation.


    • Avoiding collisions is required of all vessels, regardless of their stand-on status.


    • Always presume the other vessel does not know you are there.


    • The overtaking vessel (coming from behind) must keep out of the way even if it is a sailing vessel. That means you cannot creep up on another vessel from behind and expect it to get out of your way.


    • Avoid crossing ahead, It is usually safer to cross astern.


    • Do not pass too close. Overtaking always takes time, so make sure both ships have plenty of room to maneuver. Never assume that the other ship will maintain its course and speed.


    • Remain vigilant. Remember that you remain an overtaking vessel until you are finally passed and clear.


    • Between sailing vessels, the one on starboard tack or to leeward is the stand-on vessel.


    • Rules of the Road basics: 


      • 1. Keep a good lookout at all times so that you are not surprised and you don't surprise another boat.
      • 2. Don’t hit anything regardless of your stand-on status (collision prevention is an obligation that trumps your "rights")
      • 3. Avoid commercial traffic, especially big ships in the channels
      • 4. If you plan to change course, make a substantial change to make it obvious to the other vessel which way you will go
      • 5. If overtaking another vessel, you have to keep clear of it even if you are under sail and it is a power boat.
      • 6. In a crossing situation, give-way vessel should go behind the stand-on vessel and change course accordingly.
      • 7. Don’t assume the other boat’s operator knows the RoR at all, so always keep your distance and be prepared to take evasive action. Avoiding collisions is an obligation for all boats.