Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways

Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways

Safety Tips For Navigating Crowded Waterways 1000 667 James Hallam

UK waterways can get crowded, especially during the busy summer months.

In this post we will discuss some safety tips for navigating crowded waterways during high season, to help you avoid stress, arguments, and potential damages to your boat and others.

Who Has Right of Way on UK Waterways?

Which Side To Pass Other Boats
On UK waterways, you should navigate on the right (starboard) side, as opposed to the left (port) side, as you would on UK roads.

Wind-powered Boats vs. Engines
There are also certain international regulations determining what types of vessels have right of way on the water. Generally speaking, wind-powered boats have right of way over boats powered by engines, due to their comparatively limited manoeuvrability.

Large Vessels vs Smaller Vessels
Larger vessels also tend to take priority over smaller vessels, mainly because smaller vessels can easily move around larger vessels, which may struggle to correct course.

However, these regulations largely apply to vessels at sea. Local authorities may set their own regulations concerning right of way, and other issues. So before you use any waterways, make sure you familiarise yourself with the local laws.

Stand-On and Give-Way

Whenever two or more vessels encounter each other on any waterway, it is important to consider the “stand-on” vs. “give-way” concept:

  • The stand-on vessel should maintain its speed, and its course.
  • The give-way vessel should adjust its speed and course accordingly so as to avoid a collision.

As we mentioned above, different types of vessels may take priority on waterways. As a general rule of thumb, larger vessels, and those powered solely by wind, should be viewed as stand-on vessels, as it will be harder for such boats to alter their course. Meanwhile, smaller vessels, and those powered by engines, will be viewed as give-way vessels, as they will find it easier to manoeuvre.

But once again, certain waterways may impose their own regulations. For example, all boats may be required to give priority to commercial vessels and local trip boats. And if a waterway is used for certain types of water sports, then this activity may take priority over other types of boating.

Safety and Courtesy for Passing Other Vessels

What if you encounter a similar type of boat to yours? Who will take priority then? For example, what happens when two canalboats need to pass on a waterway?

Technically, neither boat will have priority in this situation. So instead of thinking about right of way, instead aim to follow some general safety and courtesy procedures:

  • Keep your distance from all other boats. Be aware of your boat’s capabilities, and always give yourself enough space and time to react to potential collisions.
  • Follow any speed restrictions on the waterways, and try to keep your speed consistent so that other waterway users can anticipate your actions.
  • If you find yourself on a narrow or crowded waterway, slow down and try to avoid making any abrupt movements.
  • Keep a careful lookout for particularly vulnerable vessels and individuals on the waterway, such as swimmers, canoes, and kayaks.
  • Stick to any designated channels or courses for your particular vessel, as this can help to avoid any unexpected encounters. Also try to stick to one side of the waterway, so that other vessels can easily pass on the other side.
  • Plot your course carefully to avoid any potentially unsuitable or overcrowded channels, and to prevent sudden course changes.
  • Try to stay on your course, and try to avoid U-turns, as these can quickly create bottlenecks and other problems.

Understanding the Water

It is also important to understand the specific nature of the water you are sailing on.

If you are boating on river, a lake, or at sea, then you might have more room to manoeuvre. However, you will also have currents to contend with, and you may sometimes have to deal with turbulent waters. These factors will affect your turning circle, and potentially your speed.

On tidal waters, navigation lights may also be compulsory, so that you can easily communicate your intentions to other vessels.

If you are boating on a marine, or canal, then you may not have to deal with tides, currents, and waves. However, you may have to contend with narrower channels, and potentially more congestion.

Prepare For Emergencies

No matter what sort of waterway you are on, it is important to ensure your vessel is equipped with all of the essential safety equipment in case of emergencies.

You will need a suitable anchor and chain, to stop yourself from drifting in the event of engine failure. Make sure everyone onboard has a life jacket, or access to a life ring or life buoy. Also ensure that everyone has a basic understanding of water safety, and on what to do in case of emergency.

Make sure you have enough fuel for every journey you undertake, to avoid getting stranded. It may also be a good idea to pack flares, so that you can signal to other boats, or a VHF radio to communicate with coastguards and other emergency services.

Get The Right Cover For Your Boat This Summer

Everard Insurance Brokers are the specialist marine trading division of accredited Lloyd’s brokers James Hallam Limited. We can help you ensure you have the insurance you need to cover your boat for potential collisions and other emergencies all year round.

Find out more about our dedicated marine insurance services.