Ethical Boating

Spring is right around the corner, which means soon it will be time to hop onboard our boats and enjoy the sun and fun! But while we are operating our boats along the Southern California coast, we need to abide by local laws and just as important, a generally accepted set of rules shared by experienced boaters. While local police departments handle matters regarding statutory law, it is up to us as skippers and crew to maintain a standard of behavior that promotes the safety and pleasure of everyone onboard all coastal vessels.   Controlling Speed A shallow-draft motorboat is capable of accelerating to high speeds within seconds, throwing a huge wake, depending on vessel size and the shape of the hull beneath the waterline. Inside an enclosed waterway, such as Newport Harbor or Los Angeles Harbor, minimize speed to avoid throwing a large wake toward other vessels underway. Out on open coastal water well beyond the breakwater, you may find yourself in large swells, which can be dangerous for a speedboat. To enjoy planing in a low-freeboard speedboat on open water, wait for a day when the wind is relatively calm and coastal waters are fairly flat. A fishing boat or trawler, on the...