What should not be done while operating a vessel?

Drinking alcohol or using drugs is strongly discouraged while operating a vessel due to the impairments they cause. Alcohol and drugs can significantly affect a boater's ability to make sound judgments, react quickly to changing conditions, and navigate safely. The combination of reduced coordination, impaired thinking, and slower reaction times increases the risk of accidents on the water, making it hazardous for both the operator and others in the vicinity. This is why many boating regulations explicitly prohibit the consumption of alcohol and drugs while operating a vessel.

In contrast, listening to music, talking to passengers, and updating maps and logs, while potentially distracting, are generally permissible activities as long as they are managed with caution and do not compromise the operator's attention to safety and navigation.