The shape of the hull is a defining feature of any watercraft. Boat hulls do not only differ in appearance, their varying structural characteristics make them more or less suited to specific water activities. Different boat hull types have different functions. Some hulls displace water as the boat travels, while others are designed to ride … Read more ›
Knowing the parts of a boat and being able to call them by their correct names is important, whether you are just learning how to drive a boat or you already comfortable navigating the water with different types of vessels. Boats may seem to have a front, back, kitchen and bathroom – but they don’t! … Read more ›
Boating is a fun and thrilling experience, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. If you’re planning to hit the water this season, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary skills and knowledge to stay safe. While there are plenty of boating courses available online, opting for a paid … Read more ›
There are 5 species of marine turtles in Florida: loggerhead, green, leatherback, Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill. All 5 species are listed as either endangered or threatened. As such, they and their habitats are protected by federal and state law. Discover what the law says about protecting sea turtles, and what boaters can do to help! … Read more ›
Seagrass is a type of underwater flowering plant that is usually found in shallow marine waters and estuaries. Seagrass plays a vital role in Florida’s marine ecosystems, but is currently under threat from careless recreational boating practices. Discover the penalties for the destruction of seagrass in Florida, why the plant is so important and what … Read more ›
The Florida manatee is a subspecies of West Indian manatee that has been designated as the state’s official marine mammal. Found throughout peninsular Florida, these gentle, slow-moving giants make their home in calm rivers, estuaries and bays, and move to warmer waters in the winter. Manatees in Florida are currently threatened by algae blooms … Read more ›
Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can seriously endanger the vessel operator, their passengers and others using the waterway. These substances dull the senses and reflexes that are vital for boaters to remain in command of their craft and stay safe on the water. That’s why the state of Florida has instituted strict … Read more ›
Commonly known by brand names such as Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and WaveRunner, personal watercraft (PWCs) are small motorized vessels often used for water skiing and towing activities. Since their design and operation differs from regular boats in several ways, they are subject to their own specific requirements, restrictions and regulations under Florida law. Safety measures … Read more ›
Towed water sports are a category of aquatic activity that involves a person using a device such as a board or skis to aquaplane while being towed behind a vessel or PWC. Towing activities include wakesurfing, kneeboarding, water skiing, and more. Being towed behind a vessel can be dangerous, particularly in adverse conditions, so it’s … Read more ›
While pleasure craft operators in Florida are not all required to take a boating safety course, they are nevertheless obliged to familiarize themselves with safe boating practices and vessel regulations. Boaters are responsible for operating their vessel safely and in compliance with state law. Find out what the state of Florida considers reckless boating and … Read more ›
