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Step 1
Go for a ride first. Virtually no one has ever learned to drive a car without first riding in one. The same applies for a boat. Though the experience is not hands-on, you can still pick up on the basics by watching the driver.
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Step 2
Familiarize yourself with the boats features. Where the steering wheel, throttle and motor are is obvious. You should also learn where fuel, life jackets and other emergency supplies are kept. Each boat has a panel that specifies the maximum weight and maximum number of people the boat will hold, and you should know where that information is as well.
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Step 3
Learn the laws and general rules of driving a boat. Law varies from state to state, but most boating laws include stipulations on how fast you can go near shore, how far to stay away from other boats and other general rules of the water.
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Step 4
Know your area. If you're in a lake or body of water you aren't familiar with, find out how deep the water is in the places you plan to travel. Some drop off near shore; others do so yards away from shore.
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Step 5
Watch the waves. Though you probably know to stay away from other boats, you also need to look out for their waves. Driving your motorboat parallel to the waves can cause the boat to become unstable, and could be uncomfortable to passengers. Cut across the waves at at least a 45 degree angle. Other hazards to watch out for are people in the water, water skis and fishing lines.
