USA Boating
BUI: What You Need to Know about U.S. Laws
March 24, 2026
Boating Under the Influence, or BUI (operating a vessel while intoxicated) is a serious violation of both federal and state law. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) maintains a zero-tolerance stance toward impaired boating because alcohol is a factor in many recreational boating deaths. Key Takeaways Boating Under the Influence (BUI) of alcohol or drugs is … Read more ›
Why You Should Switch to ABYC C-5 LED Navigation Lights
LED navigation lights that meet American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) standard C-5 are now legally permitted on recreational vessels in the United States. They must be certified by a laboratory listed by the Coast Guard to these standards, and labelled accordingly as indicated in the Code of Federal Regulations 33 CFR 183.810. Key Takeaways … Read more ›
5 Top Boating Safety Tips for 2026
February 11, 2026
5 Top Boating Safety Tips for 2026 Wondering what you need to know before going out on the water? Check out the latest safety tips for recreational boaters in the United States, and discover how to navigate responsibly no matter where you are. Key Takeaways Boating safety has never been more important. U.S. officials are … Read more ›
Boat Fuel Management for Recreational Boaters
Boat Fuel Management for Recreational Boaters There are two things boaters need to know about when it comes to fuel management: how to refuel, and how to gauge the right amount of fuel you need for a trip. As always, safety must come first! Keep reading to learn what you need to know about fuel … Read more ›
Understanding Tide Tables: A Beginner’s Guide
January 12, 2026
Whether you’re heading out for a day of fishing, coastal cruising, or just anchored at a sandbar, the tide will have an impact. Ignoring it can lead to more than just a ruined afternoon. It can lead to running aground or being unable to clear a bridge. Find out how to read a tide table … Read more ›
How to Boat Safely Under Bridges of All Types
It may seem simple at first, but navigating safely under bridges actually requires some knowledge and preparation. You’ll need to understand the height of your boat, the bridge clearance, the movement of the tides, marine communication procedures and right-of-way rules. A bit of boating etiquette goes a long way too! Keep reading to discover what … Read more ›
Boating at Night in the United States: Safety and Legal Requirements
December 8, 2025
Night boating offers unique perks: it’s calm, cool and you can enjoy a special atmosphere in the dark. And there are plenty of reasons to take to the water at night: events like parades or New Year’s celebrations, night fishing, star-gazing and parties. You could also be taking a longer trip that requires staying on … Read more ›
Boating Basics
There’s a lot to learn when it comes to safe boating, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here we introduce what you need to know for safe and legal boating in the United States. Remember, this article is just a starting point. You can learn more by exploring topics further on … Read more ›
What You Need to Know About Using Your Boating License in Another State
November 21, 2025
For millions of boat owners in the U.S. , obtaining a Boating Safety Education Certificate—often called a Boater Card or “boating license”—is a mandatory rite of passage. But when you plan that exciting out-of-state trip, launching your boat on a new lake or coastal waterway, you may wonder: is my home state’s card valid everywhere … Read more ›
The NATO Phonetic Alphabet for Boaters
When you’re out on the water, clear and accurate communication can be a matter of safety. Whether you’re hailing the Coast Guard, coordinating with a nearby vessel, or checking in with a marina, misinterpreting a single letter can lead to confusion or danger. This is why all boaters rely on the International Radio Alphabet—also known … Read more ›