Boating Life

Boating is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Florida’s waterways—from quiet rivers and sparkling lakes to the open Gulf of Mexico. But whether you’re navigating the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) near Venice, cruising the bays around Charlotte Harbor, or heading offshore for a day of fishing, one skill is essential for every boater: knowing how to pass other boats safely.

Passing other vessels isn’t just about courtesy—it’s about following U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules (COLREGS) to prevent accidents, protect passengers, and ensure everyone gets home safely. This guide will walk you through the rules, best practices, and special considerations for passing boats in bays, rivers, lakes, the ICW, nearshore waters, and even the open sea.

Understanding the Rules of the Water

The U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules, known as COLREGS, are the “rules of the road” for boaters. Just like drivers on land, boaters must understand who has the right of way and how to communicate intentions.

• Stand-On Vessel – The boat that maintains course and speed.
• Give-Way Vessel – The boat that must take early and substantial action to avoid a collision.

When two boats are meeting head-on, both should turn to starboard (right) and pass port-to-port (left sides passing each other). If you’re overtaking another boat from behind, you are the give-way vessel and may pass on either side—provided it’s safe—and you clearly signal your intentions.

In restricted visibility or high-traffic areas, use sound signals:

• One short blast: “I intend to pass you on your port side.”
• Two short blasts: “I intend to pass you on your starboard side.”

General Passing Etiquette

Beyond the rules, good seamanship involves courtesy and situational awareness.

• Slow down when passing to minimize your wake, especially in narrow channels or near smaller craft like kayaks and paddleboards.
• Keep a safe distance—at least 100 feet in open water and more in congested areas.
• Communicate intentions using sound signals, VHF radio, or clear hand signals if needed.
• Check for hazards—shoals, floating debris, and submerged structures can make passing more complicated.

Always remember: safety comes before speed. If there’s doubt about whether a pass can be made safely, wait.

Passing in Bays & Lakes

Bays and lakes can be busy, especially on weekends and holidays. You’ll encounter everything from pontoons and jet skis to sailboats and fishing vessels.

• Look for non-motorized traffic: Paddlecraft have the right of way over motorized boats. Pass at idle speed to avoid tipping them with your wake.
• Mind the wind: Sudden gusts can push lightweight boats into your path, so leave extra space.
• Watch for shallow areas: Florida bays often have sandbars just below the surface. Use charts and GPS to plan a safe passing route.

In lakes, anglers may anchor in open water. Always give them plenty of room and pass slowly to avoid disturbing their fishing lines.

Passing in Rivers

Rivers present unique challenges: narrow channels, strong currents, and commercial traffic. The narrow channel rule states that boats operating in a marked channel should keep to the starboard side and pass only when safe.

• Commercial vessels like tugs and barges have limited maneuverability and create large wakes. Contact them on VHF Channel 13 or 16 before passing.
• Mind the current: Passing upstream can require more throttle and space; downstream passes may need earlier braking to avoid overshooting.
• Watch for floating debris—especially after heavy rain, when logs and vegetation can drift into the channel.

Always be prepared for blind bends where visibility is limited.

Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) Passing

The ICW is a boater’s highway along Florida’s coast, marked by navigational aids and often lined with “No Wake” zones. It’s also home to a wide range of boat traffic.

• Respect no-wake areas: Passing at idle speed is required near marinas, docks, and manatee zones.
• Communicate with large vessels: Workboats and commercial fishing boats may signal you to pass on a specific side.
• Be mindful near bridges: The waterway often narrows at bridge spans, so avoid passing there unless necessary.

Patience pays off in the ICW—sometimes waiting for a wider stretch is the safest move.

Nearshore & Open Sea Passing

Once you leave sheltered waters, passing becomes a different skill set.

• In calm seas, passes can be made with more distance and flexibility.
• In rough conditions, large swells may hide smaller boats from view. Always scan ahead and to the sides.
• Watch fishing boats: Many nearshore anglers have lines or trolling gear extended far behind the boat. Pass well clear of their stern to avoid entanglement.
• Use radar and AIS: In low visibility, these tools help track other vessels’ positions and speeds.

In open sea scenarios, space is plentiful—but awareness is crucial. The horizon can hide fast-moving boats until they’re closer than you think.

Safety Best Practices

No matter where you’re boating:

• Keep a proper lookout at all times.
• Travel at a safe speed for the conditions.
• Know the local regulations—some areas have additional rules for passing.
• Use navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and in reduced visibility.

Remember, most boating accidents are preventable. Clear communication, patience, and adherence to the rules keep everyone safe.