A pleasant surprise to novice boaters as they first take to the water is the courtesy skippers and crews show to one another, in sharp contrast to the ill-tempered outbursts a motorist can experience.  As the U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary emphasizes in its free boating courses, good manners and courtesy (admirable traits at anytime) are age-old traditions of the sea and become the hallmarks of the competent pleasure boater.

As the number of vessels on our waterways increases enormously each year, such marine customs as common courtesy, good manners and the golden rule on the water become prime ingredients of boating safety.

Practicing these traditional amenities, Coast Guard Auxiliary instructors point out, is largely the exercising of common sense and fair play, and respecting the rights of other boaters.  And, it sets an excellent example for the novice skipper.

In cruising you undoubtedly have had a hand wave from the crew of a passing vessel, an indicator of people enjoying their pastime.  And you cheerfully responded.  There are a number of boating courtesies, and examples of bad and good boating manners, that are covered in Auxiliary public classes. Here are some of the more important:

1. SPEED - Keep it down in narrow channels, anchorages, harbors, near docks and in the vicinity of fishing vessels, water skiers and small sailboats.

2. WAKES - Severe damage to moored vessels, docks and seawalls can result from heavy wakes. Keep your wake down in confined areas. You can be liable for damages.

3. BOW RIDING - An extremely dangerous practice, especially where children are concerned.

4. BUZZING - The boating hot "rudder" shows his lack of courtesy by buzzing piers, swimming areas and other vessels.

5. POLLUTION - The considerate boater retains used cans, cartons, garbage and other debris in a container until the cruise ends.

6. RIGHT-OF-WAY - If the other boat fails to recognize your right of way, the well-mannered, prudent skipper will avoid a collision by giving way.

7. ANCHORING - Only the thoughtless or selfish boater anchors in mid-channel, or ties illegally to a buoy or navigation aid while fishing.