Chapter 5                                                                        Underway

As the pleasure craft operator gets ready to head out from harbour or dock, it is important to remember that the waterways are to be shared. This means that when in the presence of other persons or properties, the operator must stay well clear of swimmers and properties. The operator also has a responsibility to ensure that the speed of the craft and the resulting draw-off and wave disturbance avoid making any injuries to persons, erosion of the shoreline or damage to the properties. Follow the Collision Regulations and generally use common sense and courtesy to as not to create a hazard, a threat, a stress or an irritant to themselves, to others, to the environment ,or to wildlife. 

When travelling on the waterways, the pleasure boat operator is ever vigilant for obstructions, hazards, other vessels, other waterway users and changing weather or water conditions. The operator must keep in mind that just as in driving a motor vehicle, travelling at high speeds requires increased stopping distance and more attention on the part of the operator because the operator has less time to react to the changing conditions. The operator needs to slow down in bad weather so as to avoid losing control of the operation of the pleasure craft, which could increase the risk of causing injuries or loss of life to persons on board.

While underway, the pleasure craft operator will refer to Charts to determine location of the craft. Another tool that can be used is a magnetic compass, which helps the operator find directions. A magnetic compass is a magnet mounted on a card that is marked from 00 degrees to 360 degrees. It will point to magnetic north. True north is found by applying magnetic variations, which is always marked on the chart. The magnetic compass is influenced by the proximity of metallic and/ or electrical device and could provide false information; it must be positioned in the craft away from such influences.