Top Rules for Pontoon Boating Safety

Whether you're cruising calm lakes or exploring winding rivers, following some basic recreational boating rules keeps everyone safe and sound. Here are ten easy-to-follow guidelines for safe pontoon boat navigation:

Give Way to Others:

• Know who has the right of way to avoid crashes and keep order on the water.
• Let boats with priority go first in different situations, like when paths cross or when boats approach each other.

Use Your Lights:

• Even if you're not heading out for a night cruise, you might encounter some conditions where it's difficult to see and for others to see you. Always check to make sure your lights work.
• Familiarize yourself with the guidelines on when to use your lights, taking into account the specific type and size of your boat.

Watch Your Speed:

• Stick to speed limits and slow down if the weather's bad or there are other boats or things in your way.
• Going too fast makes it harder to steer and raises the chance of accidents, especially in busy water areas.

Stay Alert:

• Keep an eye out for other boats, swimmers, debris in the water, and any changes in the water's condition.
• Have someone help you watch out for potential dangers while you steer.

Be Careful Where You Go:

• Take it slow in waters you don't know or where there might be hidden structures under the surface, shallow spots, or strong currents.
• Use maps, charts, and local rules to find out about any dangers and the best ways to go.

Follow the Signs:

• Markers, buoys and signage are in place to show you where it's safe to boat, so keep an eye open for these.
• Stick to the marked paths to avoid getting stuck or damaging your boat.

Let Others Go First:

• Be on the lookout and give way to bigger boats, commercial traffic, and vessels that can't move easily.
• Let boats coming from your right side pass and keep a safe distance to avoid crashing into them.

Use Your Horn:

• Use your horn or whistle to talk to other boats and let them know what you're doing.
• Blast short sounds to show when you're changing direction, passing someone, or warning about danger.

Watch the Weather:

• This almost goes without saying, but please know what's coming weather-wise before and during your boat trip.
• Avoid going out in bad weather, strong winds, storms, or rough seas that could be dangerous.

Be Responsible:

• Handle your boat with care and think about other people, animals, and nature
• Life jackets are required by the US Coast Guard and also by local municipalities. Make sure there are life jackets (PFD) for everyone who will be onboard.
• Take a boating safety course, especially if you're a first-time owner or new boat operator.
• If you're going out for an extended outing or long day trip, write up a float plan and leave it with someone you trust or with your marina manager.

See our list on the top safety equipment you should have aboard your boat.

What Not to Do When Boating

Avoid getting intoxicated with alcohol or anything else, making big waves, or being too noisy, which can bother others and be unsafe. Don't overload your boat with too many people, ignore navigation rules, boat in hazardous weather, or do anything that might be considered risky behavior.

In short, following these pontoon boat rules makes for safe and fun times on the water. Stick to these simple tips, and you can navigate confidently, lower the risks, and keep everyone, including yourself, your passengers, and other boaters, safe. So, set off with knowledge, caution, and respect for the water, and enjoy pontoon boating to the fullest!

Download a guide on boating safety and read about what makes Lowe Boats some of the safest on the water.