SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-safe-speed

Navigation Rule 6 defines a safe speed as one that lets you do what?

Avoid a collision and stop in a distance that fits the conditions.

  1. Keep up with surrounding traffic
  2. Avoid collision and stop within a fitting distance ✔
  3. Stay under 5 miles per hour

Why: Rule 6 says always go at a speed that lets you act to avoid collision and stop within a distance that fits the conditions. Visibility, traffic, wind and water depth all matter.

Huh, didn't know that: Rule 6 even lists background shore lights at night as a factor in choosing a safe speed.

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Sources

  1. 33 CFR 83.06 Safe speed, Inland Rule 6 (eCFR) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.06

Test yourself in the game

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