What is the "right of way" in boating?

The "right of way" in boating refers to the legal rules that determine which vessel has the priority to navigate in a given situation. These rules are essential for maintaining safety on the water and helping to prevent collisions between vessels. Understanding and following the right of way is critical for all boaters, as it dictates who needs to yield in various scenarios, such as when two boats are approaching each other at an intersection or when one vessel is overtaking another.

Properly following the right of way ensures that all boaters can operate safely and navigate effectively, fostering a more organized and predictable boating environment. The other options focus on different aspects of boating safety and navigation, but they do not pertain directly to the legal priority in navigation that the right of way encompasses.