Environmental awareness
WARNING! Risk of damage to the environment.
- Only organic waste may be jettisoned at sea.
- Marine plastic pollution is a serious wildlife and environmental hazard.
- Comply with speed restrictions to avoid coastal erosion.
CAUTION! Risk of damage to the environment.
- Keep bilges clean to prevent the automatic bilge pumps from discharging illegal effluent.
- Comply with local marine discharge laws. Violators can be subject to penalty.
Several sections of this manual provide information on how to protect the boat and its passengers from the environment. This section gives information on how the environment can be protected from the boat and its passengers.
The environment should be understood as including one's neighbors as well as the world of plants and animals.
In many regions of the world, there are strictly-enforced regulations regarding environmental protection. It is the responsibility of the operator to be aware of applicable regulations and to ensure compliance with them. Bear in mind the international convention against marine pollution (MARPOL).
No black water discharge at sea
The discharge of effluent into navigable waters is forbidden by law in many areas. If such discharge causes:
- Discoloration of the water
- A film or sheen upon the surface
- A sludge or emulsion beneath the surface
It is the responsibility of the boat driver to ensure that they comply with local marine discharge laws. Violators can be subject to penalty. The black water tank must not be discharged at sea. It must be pumped out onshore at a waste station.
Retain household waste until onshore
Retain any household waste until it can be properly disposed of onshore.
Considerations regarding noise and wake
Consider the safety and comfort of other boats, people and wildlife around you. Never make excessive noise. Comply with speed restrictions and adapt speed to sea conditions.