Glossary of Terms

Regulations dictating how states handle derelict or sunken boats; owners can face fines or lose t...

Minimum or maximum ages set by states for operating certain classes of boats or PWCs; younger ope...

Structures or markers (e.g., lighthouses, range lights) guiding boaters through safe channels or ...

Operating flat-bottom boats propelled by a large fan or aircraft engine; used in shallow waters; ...

A transponder broadcasting a vessel’s position, speed, and course to other ships and coastal stat...

Operating under the influence (OUI/BUI) laws prohibit or limit alcohol use while boating; boater ...

Proper methods of securing a vessel in place using anchors and rodes, including scope calculation...

A national campaign educating boaters on preventing invasive species transport, e.g., “Clean, Dra...

Keeping marine batteries charged, connections clean, and properly ventilated; critical for starti...

For inboard or stern-drive boats, an exhaust fan system that removes gasoline fumes before engine...

Equipment for removing water from the boat’s bilge area, preventing flooding or excessive weight....

Properly covering the vessel with tarps or fitted covers to protect from weather, UV rays, and de...

Routine checks (oil changes, spark plugs, cooling systems) to ensure safe and reliable operation;...

Tips to avoid onboard fires (e.g., checking fuel hoses, maintaining electrical systems, storing f...

Basics of operating a sailboat, including tacking, jibing, and reading wind direction; often cove...

The offense of operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs; penalties can include fines...

State-specific regulations mandating that operators of certain vessels complete a boater educatio...

Courteous practices at public launches: preparing your vessel away from the ramp, minimizing time...

Conditions set by rental companies or states that may require renters to have a boater education ...

A recommended practice session where all aboard learn how to handle man overboard, fire, or aband...

A legal document proving ownership of a vessel, containing the boat’s hull identification number ...

The arrangement of lateral or non-lateral buoys indicating safe channels, hazards, or controlled ...

Similar to kayak safety but emphasizing tandem paddling, weight distribution, and dealing with cu...

A placard found on most boats under 20 feet stating the maximum weight/people the vessel can safe...

Specific technique for re-righting a flipped kayak (e.g., the “Eskimo Roll” or a T-rescue). Boate...

When a boat overturns or rolls over, often due to overloading, poor weight distribution, or sudde...

Lightweight, high-strength boat hulls gaining popularity in high-performance vessels; boater educ...

Deadly fumes produced by boat engines that can accumulate in or around a vessel, especially when ...

Another term for vessel registration documentation proving the boat’s official listing with the s...

Electronic navigation aids combining GPS data with digital charts, increasing situational awarene...

The skill of interpreting nautical charts, including water depth (soundings), contours, and navig...

The initial gasp reflex and potential cardiac issues when suddenly immersed in cold water; separa...

Strategies to prevent accidents, including early course changes, clear signals, and adherence to ...

Hitting an unseen hazard (log, rock). Boater ed covers immediate steps: check for leaks, engine d...

A temporary card or digital credential often issued immediately after passing an online boater ed...

Techniques for safely navigating tight fairways or slip spaces, often requiring minimal throttle ...

Procedures for entering and exiting navigation locks near dams; boaters must follow lockmaster in...

Timetables for water discharges from dams affecting river flow; boaters must check schedules to a...

Official penalties for violating boating laws (e.g., fines, license suspension, vessel impoundmen...

(To appear in Part 4) Penalties or corrective measures taken by state agencies or the Coast Guard...

Methods (flares, flags, sound-making devices, electronic signals) to alert others of an emergency...

A red flag with a white diagonal stripe (in the U.S.) that indicates divers are below the surface...

Methods and best practices for approaching and securing a boat to a dock or slip, including line ...

Ropes and protective cushions used to secure and protect a boat when docking; correct placement p...

Facilities for boats equipped with holding tanks to properly dispose of sewage (Type III MSD). Re...

A method of storing smaller boats in a covered facility using forklifts to place/remove vessels f...

Gasoline blended with 10% ethanol can attract water and damage older marine engines; boater educa...

Individual lessons within an online boater course, covering topics like navigation aids, life jac...

A sophisticated navigation system integrating GPS data and digital charts; typically used on larg...

Federal or state regulations requiring an operator to use a device (lanyard or wireless FOB) that...

Emergency procedures when a boat’s engine fails, including dropping anchor, signaling for help, a...

Issues like pollution, wildlife disturbances, and habitat protection tied to boating activities; ...

(To be expanded in Parts 3/4) Environmental issues like pollution, wildlife disturbances, and hab...

A procedure for carrying essential items (phone, PLB, whistle) on your person in a waterproof pou...

A maritime device that sends a distress signal and location via satellite when activated, essenti...

Zones permanently or temporarily closed to boat traffic due to safety, security, or environmental...

Boating rules set by the US Coast Guard or other federal entities (e.g., EPA for marine pollution...

The practice of leaving trip details (departure time, route, expected return) with a friend or ma...

A USCG-approved device used to extinguish fires on board, often required for vessels with enclose...

Special events where fireworks are launched from barges or near water. Boater education recommend...

A smartphone application allowing boaters to file and share float plans digitally with friends or...

When water contacts electrical panels, risk of shock or equipment damage rises; boaters learn to ...

When too much fuel enters the engine carburetor or cylinders, preventing ignition; boaters learn ...

Alerts from state or federal agencies about rising water levels making navigation unsafe; boaters...

Floating debris (flotsam) or items thrown overboard (jetsam). Both can be navigation hazards, req...

Personal watersports devices lifting above the water on a hydrofoil wing; operators must still fo...

Products mitigating carbon buildup or ethanol issues in older engines; boater ed advises followin...

Steps to minimize fire and explosion risk at the marina: turn off engines, close windows, avoid s...

Valves controlling seawater intake/outflow on inboard engines or toilets. Properly maintained sea...

The boat required to alter course or slow down to avoid a collision with a stand-on vessel under ...

Some states propose tiered licenses (e.g., PWC or large vessel endorsements) based on operator ag...

Advising passengers not to sit on the gunwales (upper edges) of a moving boat without guardrails;...

The home port or city displayed on a documented vessel’s stern; helps identify vessel location or...

Requirements and best practices to accommodate boaters with disabilities (e.g., wheelchair ramps ...

Local official responsible for assigning moorings, enforcing harbor rules, and overseeing maritim...

Some states or ports require large vessels to take a licensed pilot aboard; recreational vessels ...

Using cranes or travel lifts to remove boats from water in freezing climates for storage; boater ...

Hull designs that either push through water (displacement) or ride on top (planing). Boater educa...

Setting multiple anchors or stronger lines to secure a vessel in extreme weather; advanced techni...

Illegal alteration or removal of a boat’s Hull Identification Number, often indicating theft or f...

Certain areas near dams, power plants, or military bases may be off-limits or heavily regulated f...

A unique 12-character code assigned to each boat, much like a VIN for cars; used for identificati...

Procedures like removing electronics, doubling mooring lines, sealing hatches, and hauling out if...

A boat design where submerged “wings” lift the hull at speed, reducing drag and increasing effici...

Detailed measurements of water depths, bottom contours, and hazards; updates from agencies like N...

A dangerous drop in body temperature from prolonged cold-water immersion; boater education covers...

Inland rules apply in many U.S. domestic waters, while international rules govern seaward of spec...

Rules set by some states or marinas mandating liability or property damage coverage for boat owne...

(To appear in Part 4) Some states or marinas mandate liability or property damage coverage for bo...

Guidelines to avoid spreading non-native plants or animals (e.g., zebra mussels) between waterway...

Operating a waterjet-powered boat (no external propeller) with unique steering nuances at low spe...

Modular floating blocks that create a drive-on dock for PWCs or small boats, simplifying launchin...

Certain states or local parks require permits for non-motorized craft launches, ensuring facility...

Techniques and equipment (e.g., wearing a PFD, using a whistle) for safe paddling in rivers, lake...

Buoys or daymarks indicating the edges of safe water (red-right-returning vs. green-left-returnin...

Cardinal marks indicate direction relative to a hazard (north, south, east, west), while lateral ...

Proper sizing and adjustment of PFDs, crucial to ensuring they function effectively during emerge...

Guidelines for storms: stay low in the boat, unplug electrical devices, and avoid touching metal....

When obstructions (bridge walls, large vessels) block your view of approaching traffic or hazards...

Throwing a dock line to someone on shore or another boat safely, aiming away from hazards and avo...

Rules governing those who reside on their boats, including marine sanitation, docking time limits...

Safety instructions when shutting down or storing a personal watercraft, including removing the k...

Coastal currents running parallel to the shore, which can affect beach landings or nearshore navi...

Structures where boats must lower antennas or masts to pass safely. Boater education includes che...

Regions restricting high-pollution marine engines or requiring certain fuel standards to protect ...

Laws requiring all or certain groups (e.g., under 25 years old) to complete a state-approved boat...

Required checks in some regions (often for invasive species or safety compliance) before launchin...

A situation where someone falls off the vessel into the water; boater education covers the correc...

An agreement for docking or mooring a boat at a marina, often including rules on slip assignment,...

Legal requirement to report accidents involving death, injury, or significant property damage to ...

A device indicating heading relative to magnetic north, essential for navigation in open water or...

Floating or sunken trash, fishing gear, and other refuse that pose navigation hazards and environ...

Diesel engines typically have better fuel efficiency and torque, while gas engines offer quicker ...

Pyrotechnic signals (hand-held or aerial) used to indicate distress; boater education covers stor...

Coverage protecting against losses (theft, damage, liability) while boating; some states require ...

Already covered as “Maritime Liens.” (No duplication—please refer to “Maritime Liens” entry).

A permit allowing access or overnight stays in designated marine parks or reserves; boater educat...

State or local law enforcement units patrolling waterways to enforce safety regulations, check re...

An electronic device that detects objects or landmasses around a vessel by bouncing radio waves o...

Pre-set frequencies for maritime use, e.g., Channel 16 (distress/calling), Channel 9 (recreationa...

On-board equipment for handling sewage; must meet state or federal pollution regulations (Type I,...

Variations include cable, hydraulic, or fly-by-wire systems; boater ed covers routine checks for ...

A professional who inspects boats for condition and safety compliance; typically required for ins...

The official or commercial prediction of wind speed, wave height, storm fronts, and other conditi...

Legal claims against a vessel for unpaid debts (e.g., marina fees, repairs); may prevent transfer...

The legal process of retrieving and repairing damaged or sunken vessels; salvage rights can be co...

Locking hatches, removing keys, using boat alarms or GPS trackers; boater education promotes thes...

Entering private marinas, docks, or restricted waters without permission can lead to legal action...

The highest-priority distress signal via radio, indicating imminent danger to vessel or crew; mus...

Specialized rules for very large recreational vessels, including additional crew requirements, ad...

Differing from anchoring, tying up to a mooring buoy can require permits or fees, and boater educ...

Certification granted by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators to boater e...

Official NOAA reports on wave height, winds, and weather. Boaters rely on these bulletins for tri...

The “rules of the road” for waterways, dictating right-of-way, overtaking procedures, and collisi...

The concept of maintaining buoyancy without floating or sinking, relevant to diving from vessels;...

Thermal or low-light scopes or goggles aiding nighttime navigation; boater ed covers proper usage...

Regulatory buoys showing information like “No Wake,” “Swim Area,” “Keep Out,” or “Speed Limit”; i...

Video systems monitoring activity on the vessel, used to deter theft or monitor passengers. Foota...

A digital version of a state-approved boater education program, offering flexibility for learners...

Techniques like sounding fog signals, reducing speed, and using radar or GPS to avoid collisions ...

An external engine mounted on the transom of a small or medium-size boat; boater education covers...

A waterproof kit containing essential rescue tools (throwable PFD, flares, whistle, PLB) easily t...

Laws prohibiting the dumping of trash, oil, or sewage directly into waterways; states and the USC...

Procedures for retrieving a person who has fallen off a boat (e.g., the “figure 8” method, throwi...

Placing too many passengers or too much weight on board, risking capsizing or swamping; boater ed...

Anchoring or attaching to a buoy/dock for an extended stay, often overnight. Requires proper ligh...

(To appear in later parts) The process of anchoring or tying up to a buoy/dock for extended stays...

Best practices when kayaking or canoeing in groups: maintain spacing, use a float plan, and commu...

Recommended practice of informing passengers about PFD locations, emergency protocols, and basic ...

A compact device transmitting an emergency signal to rescue agencies (similar to EPIRB but carrie...

Small, privately operated submarines or submersibles requiring specialized training and abiding b...

A small vessel (e.g., Jet Ski or Sea-Doo) designed for one to three people; subject to specific l...

A life jacket or buoyant vest meeting U.S. Coast Guard standards; all states require an adequate ...

USCG classifications (Type I, II, III, IV, V) denoting different flotation devices for different ...

Certain states require children under a specific age to wear a PFD at all times while on a boat’s...

The operation of pontoon-style boats, focusing on wide turns, weight distribution, and wind effec...

Self-contained sanitary devices for smaller boats without a permanent head; proper disposal is re...

Non-governmental markers (e.g., placed by yacht clubs or marinas) that must be approved by the Co...

Documentation (bill of sale, title, manufacturer’s certificate) establishing legal possession of ...

A protective cage or ring installed around a boat’s propeller to reduce the risk of prop strikes;...

Precautions to prevent injuries from a spinning propeller (e.g., turning off the engine when swim...

Steps to safely back down a boat ramp, launch the boat without blocking others, and secure the ve...

Rules and guidelines for handling personal watercraft, including safety lanyards, speed limits, a...

A form or procedure that rental operations provide to ensure the renter understands safety instru...

A solid yellow flag historically used to indicate a vessel must clear customs/health inspections;...

A device, typically placed on smaller boats, that helps marine radar systems detect the vessel mo...

Annual or periodic data on accidents, injuries, and fatalities published by the USCG or state age...

Navigation lights (red and green sidelights, white sternlight, and masthead light) must be used f...

Strong, narrow water flows pulling away from shore; swimmers and small craft risk being swept off...

The directional flow of water in a river or channel; strong currents can affect steering, docking...

Excessive rolling from waves or wake that can eject passengers or cause seasickness; boater ed su...

Techniques for operating in high waves, heavy chop, or strong winds (e.g., reducing speed, headin...

A velocity that allows adequate time to avoid collisions, considering visibility, traffic density...

Mandatory and recommended gear for boats, including PFDs, fire extinguishers, visual distress sig...

A cord attaching the operator to a PWC or boat’s ignition, designed to stop the engine if the ope...

Under most navigation rules, a sailing vessel has right-of-way over a power-driven vessel unless ...

A vessel’s overall fitness for intended waters, factoring in hull integrity, engine reliability, ...

A small, sacrificial metal pin designed to break if the propeller hits a hard object, protecting ...

The act of plugging a docked vessel into electrical power at the marina. Boater education warns a...

Entering the water to snorkel near reefs or sandbars; boater education covers safe anchoring, div...

Vessels reliant on solar panels for propulsion or onboard systems; boater education includes ener...

Horns, whistles, or bells used to communicate maneuvers (e.g., passing signals), signal distress,...

Specific speed restrictions in certain waterways, especially near marinas, wildlife areas, or con...

Floating barriers deployed to contain fuel or oil spills in marinas or open water; states and the...

A designated person watching a water-skier or tuber, ensuring immediate feedback to the operator ...

Elevated fixtures providing deck illumination on sailboats or larger craft. Boater ed warns of gl...

Equipment (fins, gyroscopic devices) reducing roll motion in yachts and large boats; boater ed ad...

In a crossing or meeting situation, the boat that must maintain its course and speed while the ot...

A discipline requiring balance and use of a paddle; boater education in some states includes wear...

A generic term for the official entity in each state overseeing boating laws, licenses, and enfor...

Laws established by individual states concerning boater education, vessel registration, equipment...

A propulsion system with an inboard engine connected to an external outdrive; popular on recreati...

An abnormal rise in water level caused by storms or hurricanes, posing severe flooding risks; boa...

Faulty wiring in marinas or on boats can electrify water, endangering swimmers. Boater ed highlig...

States or local rules define exact times for “sunset” and “sunrise” to enforce navigation light r...

Specialized instruction for operating and rescuing in fast-moving rivers or flood zones; typicall...

The agency governing boating laws, licensing, and wildlife management in Texas; it enforces state...

A recommended routine covering fuel levels, safety gear, PFD counts, weather checks, and bilge in...

The vertical difference between high tide and low tide levels, influencing safe navigation, ancho...

Specific rules and safety measures for towing individuals behind a boat, including required spott...

Commercial assistance (e.g., Sea Tow, TowBoatUS) that rescues disabled boats; having membership c...

The requirement in many states to register a boat trailer, separate from the vessel registration;...

Adding structural support to the back of a boat where engines mount, especially important for hea...

Specific handling techniques for multi-hulled vessels, often more stable at rest but requiring ca...

Adjustable plates on a boat’s transom that help control plane and bow rise, improving stability a...

Alerts for large ocean waves triggered by earthquakes or underwater landslides; boaters might nee...

Decorative or functional lights mounted below the waterline; some states regulate brightness or c...

Hidden hazards like rocks, logs, or reefs that can damage a hull or prop; charts, depth sounders,...

A national form of vessel registration from the Coast Guard for boats meeting certain tonnage req...

Assistance provided by the Coast Guard, including search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, an...

Prolonged sun exposure can crack vinyl seats or fade gelcoat; boaters learn to use covers, wax co...

The categorization of boats by length or type (e.g., Class A: less than 16 ft, Class 1: 16–26 ft)...

Movement of a boat off course due to wind or current when power is reduced or off; important for ...

The legal documentation process of recording a boat with the appropriate state agency, akin to a ...

The frequency at which a boat is sold or changes ownership; states require updated registration, ...

A marine radio used for communicating with other vessels, marinas, and the Coast Guard; used for ...

Best practices for reducing wake near other boats, shorelines, or docks to prevent property damag...

Disputes when boat wakes disturb anchored anglers or shoreline fishing. Boater ed stresses slow s...

Boaters create a large wake so a rider can surf without a rope near the stern; states may regulat...

Areas where boaters must minimize wake (e.g., “No Wake” or “Slow Speed” zones) near docks, swimmi...

A designated area with buoys for competitive skiing; boaters not participating should avoid enter...

Buoys and signs that provide navigation guidance (e.g., regulatory markers, channel markers, haza...

Sections of water patrolled heavily for speed limit enforcement; consistent violations can result...

Third-party or online providers giving route suggestions based on predicted weather patterns, com...

Federal and state guidelines require maintaining safe distances (often 100 yards or more) from wh...

Licenses or reservations for operating on heavily trafficked rivers with rapids (Class III or hig...

Areas designated to protect marine or aquatic species (e.g., manatee zones, bird nesting sites), ...

Preparing a vessel for off-season storage (e.g., draining water systems, adding antifreeze, prote...

A plumbing component in some boats directing waste either to an onboard holding tank or overboard...

An invasive freshwater species clinging to hulls or intakes, disrupting ecosystems. Boaters must ...