No-Wake Definition

SLOW NO-WAKE- means a very slow speed whereby the wake or wash created by the vessel would be minimal.  It is unlawful for the operator of a vessel to exceed a SLOW NO-WAKE speed.

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No-Wakes Zones

Northeast end of White Lake: from Highway 31 bridge south to a line which extends in an easterly direction (090 degrees from true) from the southernmost portion of Maple Beach Park to the nearest landfall.

Western end of White Lake: beginning at the westerly end of the Government Channel to White Lake at the centerline if said channel; thence northerly and westerly along the shore of White Lake to a point on Indian Point which is due north of light number 5; thence due south to light number 5 thence 210 degrees north Azimuth to the shore of White Lake; thence along said shore northwesterly to the point of beginning.

All of White Lake:  a) Federal regulations limit speed to 8 mph (7 kts) for boats over 40 feet.  (33 CFR 162.120(2a))  b) Within 100 feet of shoreline at 3 feet in depth.

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Rules of the Road

For more information on Boating Safety and Rules of the Road, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard web page.

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Sailboats

Generally, boats under sail have the right-of-way over motorboats, unless a sailboat is the overtaking vessel.  If a boat is operating with both sail and power, it is classified as a motorboat.  Sailboats must stay clear of commercial fishing boats with nets and vessels that are restricted to navigate within narrow channels.

All meeting situations call for common sense.  For instance, sailors should keep out of the way of large powerboats.  Sailboats should not change course when meeting powerboats.  This makes it more difficult to pass safely. 

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Buoyage Marking Systems

For more information on Boating Safety and Rules of the Road, please visit the U.S. Coast Guard web page.

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Safety Enforcement

The waters of White Lake are patrolled by the Muskegon County Sheriff's Department Marine Patrol Division.  Boats are distinctively marked with the Marine Patrol insignia and a blue light.  Each boat is also equipped with basic safety, radio and rescue gear.  Muskegon County Marine Patrol crafts do not patrol Lake Michigan waters, but do respond to emergencies in near shore areas.

The Marine patrol is in place for safety.  Deputies monitor compliance with safety and NO-WAKE rules and will enforce these rules as necessary.  Deputies are also there to assist with boating emergencies when they are in operation.  Be sure to radio for assistance if necessary.

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Launch Ramp Etiquette

Launching a boat can sometimes be a problem.  Wind, a slippery ramp or other local problems may mean hidden hazards.  The boat owner can make the task easier by being alert and following this simple procedure:  Remember, courtesy and efficiency will go a long way in making a boat trip a pleasure for you and others too.

Before you get in a launch area, do the following:

1. Stay to one side and watch one or two launchings to notice any local problems of the ramp and wind or current effect on launching.
2. Remove any gear that is stored in the car.  Rig boat, step mast, etc.
3. Disconnect wiring plug between car and trailer.
4. Remove tie-downs, double check to make sure the drain plug(s) is in.
5. Attach a line to the bow cleat and a second line to the stern cleat to aid in controlling the boat after launching.
6. Double check engine safety chains or lower unit.  Make sure outboard engines are securely attached to the transom.

Enter the launch area:

1. Back down into the water until the rear rollers are barely underwater.  
2. Have someone guide you into the water and hold the guide lines you connected.
3. Disconnect the winch line from the bow eye and put the boat in the water.
4. Move your boat so others may launch.
5. Return your vehicle and trailer to the parking area.
6. Be aware and courteous to those in the water waiting to dock and load.  Try to alternate launching and loading when necessary.  After all, you will eventually want to dock and load too.

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Sailboat races on White Lake

The White Lake Yacht Club stages sailing races every Saturday and Sunday through the summer.  The races usually take place from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.  During these times, it is recommended that all pleasure boats use the north side navigable channel in White Lake.  The channel on the north side of White Lake is clearly marked by green buoys.  Watch for racing boats and preferably pass to their stern.  The racing course is patrolled by committee boats and Marine Patrol officers.

To view the latest racing schedules, please visit the White Lake Yacht Club web page.

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Michigan Boating Laws

The following is a small sampling of rules that apply to boats operating in Michigan waters.  For any questions, please direct all questions to the Marien Safety Act, Act 303 P.A. 1967, as amended.

Speed Limit - 55 MPH :  On waters of this state..., a maximum speed limit of 55 miles per hours is established. (MCLA 324.80146(3))

Speed - No-Wake within 100 feet of shoreline at 3 feet depth. (MCLA 324.80148(1))

Reckless operation: "If a person carelessly and heedlessly operates a vessel upon the waters of this state in disregard of the rights and safety of others, without due caution and circumspection, or at a rate of speed or in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger a person or property;, that person is guilty of reckless operation of a vessel and is subject to the penalties described..." (MCLA 324.80148(1))

Vessel Wake Responsibility: "The owner of any vessel operated upon waters of this state shall be personally responsible for any damage to life or property resulting from a wake or swell created by the negligent operation or propulsion of such vessle is being operated with his consent."  (MCLA 324.801158)

Maximum noise - 90db at boat and 75 db at shoreline (MCLA  324.80156)

No muffler cutout/bypass - (5) A person shall not operate on the waters of this state a motorboat that is equipped with a (muffler) cutout, bypass, amplifier or other similar device."  (MCLA 324.80156)

Personal Watercraft-  No unreasonable wake jumping and stay 100 feet from docks/150 feet from another vessel/200 feet from shoreline except when at SLOW NO-WAKE speed...  (MCLA 281.1419)

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Sponsors and Supporters

This information was obtained from "A GUIDE TO SAFE BOATING ON WHITE LAKE WATERS".  This brochure was prepared by the White Lake Association and printed with the financial support of the White Lake Chamber of Commerce.