What is a safe speed? Speed Limits while boating
Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that you can take proper and appropriate action to avoid collision, and be able to stop in a safe distance, and appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions.
It is important to comply with all boating restrictions, such as speed and engine power limits. Moreover, knowing what the signs encountered along the way mean is critical for safe navigation. If you are ignorant of these restrictions, refer to the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations.
Factors to take into account when determining a safe speed
Safe speed while boating
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Conditions of visibility (fog, mist, rain and darkness) and your ability to see ahead;
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Traffic density including concentrations of fishing vessels or any other vessels;
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Maneuverability of the vessel with special attention to stopping distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions;
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At night with the presence of background light such as shore lights or from back scatter of the vessel’s own lights;
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Conditions of wind, sea and current, and the proximity of navigational hazards;
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The draft in relation to the available depth of water.
Every vessel should always navigate in a safe manner. Rules concerning safe speed applies to every vessel.
It is important to take all circumstances into consideration which could potentially place the vessel and other vessels in a dangerous situation. For this reason the operator should always be aware of what's happening on the water.
The operator must also avoid endangering the safety of persons involved in any activity in all waters. You should always pay attention to swimmers while navigating.
In order to ensure the safety of others during a sporting, recreational or public event or activity for which a permit has been issued, a person who operates a vessel shall do so in a manner that does not interfere with the event or activity.
Most of the time the maximum speed limit within 30 meters from shore is 10km/h.
