Steer In The Centre Of The Canal, Pass Oncoming Boats On The Right. Boats pass left side to left side, the opposite way to on the roads in the UK. However if there are no boats coming towards you then keep in the middle of the canal, the water will usually be deeper there. Avoid cutting corners, the inside of a bend is where the canal is shallowest and you stand most chance of grounding, or at least losing control. If you do go aground try reversing off rather than trying to force your way forwards through the mud.