Top Rules for Pontoon Boating Safety

Pontoon boats are renowned for their safety and stability, with a low likelihood of sinking due to their robust construction that keeps them buoyant even if one pontoon is damaged. Their wide, stable structure significantly reduces the risk of flipping, making them ideal for various water activities. Although capsizing is rare and typically requires extreme conditions, pontoon boats are generally safe and reliable when used properly, providing an excellent boating experience for all.

While severe weather and improper loading can pose risks, these can be minimized with careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines. Whether you're cruising calm lakes or exploring winding rivers, following some basic recreational boating rules keeps everyone safe and sound. Here are ten easy-to-follow guidelines for pontoon boat safety in navigation.

Give Way to Others:

• Know who has the right of way to avoid crashes and keep order on the water.
• Let boats with priority go first in different situations, like when paths cross or when boats approach each other.

Use Your Lights:

• Even if you're not heading out for a night cruise, you might encounter some conditions where it's difficult to see and for others to see you. Always check to make sure your lights work.
• Familiarize yourself with the guidelines on when to use your lights, taking into account the specific type and size of your boat.

Watch Your Speed:

• Stick to speed limits and slow down if the weather's bad or there are other boats or things in your way.
• Going too fast makes it harder to steer and raises the chance of accidents, especially in busy water areas.

Stay Alert:

• Keep an eye out for other boats, swimmers and paddleboarders, floating debris, or any changes in the water's condition.
• Have someone help you watch out for potential dangers while you steer.
  

Be Careful Where You Go:

• Take it slow in waters you don't know or where there might be hidden structures under the surface, shallow spots, or strong currents.
• Use maps, charts, and local rules to find out about any dangers and the best ways to go.

Follow the Signs:

• Markers, buoys and signage are in place to show you where it's safe to boat, so keep an eye open for these.
• Stick to the marked paths to avoid getting stuck or damaging your boat.

Let Others Go First:

• Be on the lookout and give way to bigger boats, commercial traffic, and vessels that can't move easily.
• Let boats coming from your right side pass and keep a safe distance to avoid crashing into them.

Use Your Horn:

• Use your horn or whistle to talk to other boats and let them know what you're doing.
• Blast short sounds to show when you're changing direction, passing someone, or warning about danger.

Watch the Weather Forecast:

• This almost goes without saying, but please know what's coming weather-wise before and during your boat trip.
• Avoid going out in bad weather, strong winds, storms, or rough seas that could be dangerous.

Be Responsible:

• Handle your boat with care and think about other people, animals, and nature
• All pontoon boat owners should have life jackets (personal flotation devices or PFD's) available for everyone onboard. Safety gear such as throwable floatation devices are required by the US Coast Guard and also by local municipalities.
• Store emergency equipment onboard: a first aid kit, flares, a fire extinguisher, etc.
• Take a boating safety course, especially if you're new boat operator.
• If you're going out for an extended outing or long day trip, write up a float plan and leave it with someone you trust or with your marina manager.

See our list on the top safety equipment you should have aboard your boat.

What Not to Do When Boating

Avoid getting intoxicated with alcohol or anything else, making big waves, or being too noisy, which can bother others and be unsafe. Don't overload your boat with too many people, ignore navigation rules, boat in hazardous weather, or do anything that might be considered risky behavior.

In short, following these pontoon boat rules makes for safe and fun times on the water. Stick to these simple tips, and you can navigate confidently, lower the risks, and keep everyone, including yourself, your passengers, and other boaters, safe. So, set off with knowledge, caution, and respect for the water, and enjoy pontoon boating to the fullest!

Download a guide on boating safety and read about what makes Lowe Boats some of the safest on the water.