North Carolina has a variety of waterways that are perfect for boating enthusiasts. However, it is important to be aware of the various boating navigation signs and rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Navigation Buoys and Channel Markers
Navigation buoys and channel markers are used to guide boaters through the waterways. The red and green markers indicate which side of the buoy or marker you should pass on to remain in a channel. As a general rule of thumb, when you’re heading from open water to inland water, or heading upstream in a river, you’ll want to keep the red markers to your right and the green ones to your left. So, when you’re heading from the ocean into a bay, or from a bay into a creek, harbor, or port, the red markers belong on your right side. Hence, the old saying “red right returning.”
Boating Regulatory Zones Boating regulatory zones are areas where specific rules apply. For example, no-wake zones require boats to travel at idle speed only. These zones are typically marked with signs or buoys.
Registration Requirements All boats must be registered with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) before they can be operated on public waters in North Carolina. Boats must display their registration number on the hull of the boat.
Age Restrictions In North Carolina, anyone born after January 1, 1988 must complete an approved boating safety course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater.
Operating Under the Influence It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol in North Carolina. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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