Canal and river boat etiquette: Unwritten rules of boating
Picture this: the sun slipping beneath the water’s edge, casting a gentle warmth over the gently rippling waves, as you prepare to moor your boat for a candle-lit dinner in a medieval town on the scenic Canal du Midi.
These are the moments that capture the essence of our love for boating. With a diverse community of boaters, the experience is all the richer when shared collectively.
In this guide, we outline the unwritten rules of bosting, discussing the nuances of canal boating etiquette, and how it fosters a sense of community among boaters, whether you’re new to boating or have years of experience.
Why canal & river boating etiquette matters
Let’s talk about why manners matter on the water.
It’s not about rules; it’s about making sure everyone enjoys their time afloat. Canal and river boat holiday makers aren’t in a rush and often make time to talk to each other. Being courteous and considerate isn’t just a nicety; it’s the current that keeps our boating experiences smooth and enjoyable.
So if you’re wondering how you can determine a safe speed for your boat or how to share a public waterway, you’re on the right track to mastering boating etiquette. Discover the unwritten rules of boating that brings us together, making every journey safer and more enjoyable.
8 boating rules for considerate river and canal cruising
Whether your boating journey is a short one in England or a long one in France, these rules will help you to enjoy your experience on the water. Here are 8 rules to consider on your boating holiday as a beginner.
1. Friendly greetings
Extend a warm “hello” and a friendly wave to fellow boaters, anglers, and people on the banks. This creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere. Whilst not as common as hello, you may also hear your fellow boaters say “ahoy”, which is a greeting that originally came from seafarers.
2. Navigational courtesy
Be aware of the boating right-of-way and slow down when crossing paths with other boats to avoid creating disruptive waves.
If another boat approaches you from the left side of your boat, you have the right of way and should maintain your speed and direction. Also, consider canal boats, which live along rivers and canals, popularly seen on the River Thames.
Navigational courtesy contributes to a more peaceful waterway.
3. Be aware of anglers
Watch out for anglers and their fishing lines. Slow down and navigate around them cautiously to avoid disrupting their fishing activities.
4. Quiet zones
Respect designated quiet zones and minimize noise near residential areas or nature reserves. This contributes to a serene environment, allowing residents and wildlife to enjoy the tranquillity of undisturbed areas.
5. Protect wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing natural habitats by not cruising so fast that your boat creates waves that could damage river or canal banks and nests. By practising this, you contribute to preserving ecosystems and the well-being of the local fauna, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with the natural world.
6. Leave no trace
Dispose of rubbish responsibly in the designated collection cans, ensuring that recyclable and non-recyclable items are sorted correctly. Le Boat’s base staff will be able to inform you about what can and can’t be recycled and available facilities. Never throw anything into the water or leave trash anywhere except designated collection facilities or public bins. It’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure clean waterways for future generations to also enjoy the beauty of nature.
7. Community spirit
Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance and in turn, offer help to fellow boaters when you can. This fosters a sense of camaraderie on the water. As evidenced by the Boat Owners Survey, boat owners observe that individuals are generally more than happy to assist each other.
8. Mooring your boat
Be mindful when mooring your boat. Avoid blocking access to other boats or facilities. Learning the rules for mooring a boat is a foundational skill for any boater. Learn how to do this by reading our article ‘How to moor your boat’. Rest assured that our experienced team is dedicated to teaching you this essential skill at check-in!
Contributing to a positive boating culture
Contributing to boating positivity requires a collective commitment to boating etiquette, applicable to both seasoned boaters and beginners. By enforcing the fundamentals of boating etiquette, we reinforce the pillars of safety, courtesy, and environmental responsibility. The goal is to inspire boaters to not only enjoy their personal experiences on the water but also to contribute positively to the broader boating community. When everyone embraces a mindset of respect, cooperation, and responsible behavior, the entire boating culture thrives, creating a harmonious environment for everyone involved.
New to boating?
Because you don’t need a license or experience to drive a canal or river boat, many of our new customers have never driven a boat before.
Which is why we have specifically designed our boats to make them easy to use.
Take a look at our canal & river boat options or discover how easy it is to go boating by watching our video.
The team at Le Boat will ensure that you are well-prepared for your adventure before you set off and are always happy to discuss your boating requirements.
FAQs
Now that you know the basics of boating etiquette, it’s likely that you’ll have a few follow-up queries. Here are answers to a few frequently asked questions.
Canal and river boats always pass oncoming boats on the right side. This means that the left side of your boat will pass the left side of the approaching boat,
Passing on the right is also known as passing “starboard” and is related to how historically boats were steered using oars on the right side of a ship for easier manoeuvring.
Although our boats are equipped with headlights night time cruising is strictly forbidden on our boats for safety reasons.
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Canal and river boat etiquette: Unwritten rules of boating
