People go out on their boats to get away from it all. They don't want to deal with the hassles or pressure from the “real world.” They just want to be able to sit back and relax without having to worry about anything. Using proper boating etiquette ensures that everyone out on the water will have safe and enjoyable trip.
If you choose to bring guests along, you may want to make up a set of house rules for them. This includes only packing what is necessary for the trip and storing all their belongings in their designated space. This provides ample room for accessibility to various part of the boat. They should also be made aware of standard boating procedures such as fueling, docking and undocking, and all safety procedures.
Once everyone is made comfortable onboard, you can head out into the water. Please remember when passing slower moving vessels to keep a wide berth and try to go as slowly as possible so as not to make a wake behind you. The driver of the other boat should slow down enough to let you pass at a reasonable speed without making too much turmoil.
Many people like to socialize and meet other boaters while they are out. Chatting with other boaters is quite a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. But please remember, not all boaters are this social. Some people go out on their boats to escape from it all, and don't want to be disturbed. If someone you accost provides any indication that they don't feel like chatting, simply bid them a pleasant day and head off on your way.
When you feel it is time to settle in, you will need a place to moor your boat. There are several rules of etiquette for this procedure. When moving into a mooring area, go as slowly as possible so that you don't disturb the people who are already set up there. Keep a safe distance from all other boats so that the wind will not blow you into them and damage or tangle your lines in any way. Moor even further away if you have children or pets, or if you plan to have a barbecue on board. You wouldn't want your noise to disturb other boaters. And before mooring, please remember to ask your neighbors for permission to stay there. They may be reserving that place for friends or family whom have not yet arrived.
If you need to stop for fuel out on the water, please do not leave your boat at the pump while you run into the store to pick up groceries or run errands. There may be people waiting for that spot. Once done fueling, please move over to the designated docking area for all errands and on-land activities. Also, if there are no attendants, offer to help other boaters dock their boats. This helps to form camaraderie between everyone and keep it a friendly community. And if you use any hoses or equipment on land, please make sure to clean up after yourself and put all equipment away in its designated spot.
Following these simple guidelines will ensure that everyone out there has a pleasant experience. Boating is no different than being on solid ground. When you are surrounded by others, be friendly and courteous, and they will show the same respect towards you.
