Getting Started - Sailing Etiquette & Traditions

• Follow the Sailing Rules and Regulations.
  Collisions will be avoided if you operate your vessel properly, in accordance to existing Rules of the Road. If you wish to overtake a Sailboat that is moving slower than yours, be extra careful and considerate. Do not overtake in close quarters, as wakes (waves generated astern) might rock the other boat. Reduce your speed if the situation calls for it.



• Be considerate and respect others' privacy.
  Keep in mind that you only get what you give. Thus, if you want others to give value to your privacy, make sure that you will do the same to them. Sounds are carried easily over the water, so if you are at an anchorage area, avoid unnecessary noises.



• Practice proper Anchoring.
  There are certain traditions that should be followed when approaching a port. For instance, inform the people of the other anchored vessel that you are approaching their boat. Reduce your speed to avoid wakes that may annoy or disturb your neighbors. Moreover, it is advisable to anchor your vessel near Sailboats with the same size and Hull type. For safety and to avoid hassle, anchor your vessel with enough distance from other vessels. This is to prevent the anchors from getting tangled up or Hulls crashing against each other when there are changes in weather or wind. Different ports or anchorage areas may have a specific set of rules, so it is important that you know what these rules are and make sure to follow them.