If two power boats or PWCs meet head-on, which side should you keep to?

When two power boats or personal watercraft (PWCs) meet head-on, the correct approach is to keep to the right side of the waterway. This is based on the navigational rules that govern waterway usage and safety. The reason for this is to reduce the risk of collisions by establishing a standard protocol for vessels approaching each other. Keeping to the right allows both vessels to pass safely by turning to starboard (the right side), thereby enhancing visibility and predictability for both operators.

This practice mirrors what is seen on roadways, where vehicles generally travel on the right side to minimize confusion and maximize safety in transportation. By adhering to this rule, boaters help to ensure a smooth flow of traffic on the water, reducing the chance of accidents when two vessels are approaching one another directly.