Personal watercraft (PWCs) are motorized vessels under 16 ft in length that are powered by waterjet propulsion. They are usually designed to hold two or three people, who stand, kneel or sit on the craft rather than inside it. PWCs are often called by their brand names, which include Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and WaveRunner. … Read more ›
According to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, 82% of victims who drowned in New York between 2005 and 2021 were not wearing a life jacket. Considering the major role PFDs play in saving lives on the water, they should ideally be worn at all times while boating. However, the … Read more ›
While recreational boaters and passengers over the age of 21 are permitted to drink while boating in New York, operating a vessel under the effects of alcohol can have serious consequences. Not only are there strict legal limits that carry severe penalties when contravened, but intoxication can seriously impair your ability to operate a vessel … Read more ›
Technically, there is no boating license for pleasure boaters in New York. However, there is a boating safety certificate that is required for most recreational boating in the state. Discover which situations require a boating certificate in New York State and how to obtain one! Types of vessels that require a boating safety certificate in … Read more ›
Driving a boat is a delightful pastime, but it is one that comes with serious obligations. These include taking responsibility when involved in an accident and stopping to help other boaters in distress. Boating can be dangerous, and there are laws in place to ensure that help can be obtained in an emergency and that … Read more ›
The administrative aspect of getting a new boat can seem daunting, but it’s crucial to ensure that you are in compliance with state law before getting out on the water. To help demystify the process, Drive a Boat USA has created this handy guide to registering a boat in New York. New York boat registration … Read more ›
California’s jet ski and personal watercraft laws are intended to protect the safety of operators, passengers, and other waterway users. It’s important for PWC users to be familiar with these laws in order to avoid accidentally engaging in illegal and dangerous behavior. Personal watercraft registration Personal watercraft must be registered with the state, just like … Read more ›
Gasoline engines and generators on boats emit carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that is extremely hazardous and sometimes lethal. This gas can easily accumulate on and around boats, poisoning unwary boaters. Find out where carbon monoxide accumulates on boats, the signs of CO poisoning and how to keep yourself and others safe on the … Read more ›
As boating continues to increase in popularity, human activities and waste are putting more and more pressure on the environment, particularly in crowded recreational waters. To mitigate the damage, the government has implemented laws regulating boat sewage discharge in American waters. It’s very important for recreational boaters to follow the law in order to keep … Read more ›
Hundreds of aquatic invasive species are currently threatening California’s waters. Efforts to contain their spread are complex and costly, with millions of dollars already invested. It’s important for recreational boaters to be aware of the problem and take steps to avoid accidentally contributing to the spread of aquatic invasive species in California. What are aquatic … Read more ›
