Boating Basics: Before Going Out on Your Vessel
Before going out on the water, take steps to make the outing safe
and enjoyable.
Vessel Length Classes
A vessel's length class determines the equipment necessary to
comply with federal and state laws.
Vessels are categorized in these length classes:
- Less than 16 feet (Class A)
- 16 feet to less than 26 feet (Class 1)
- 26 feet to less than 40 feet (Class 2)
- 40 feet to less than 65 feet (Class 3)
Length is measured from the tip of the bow in a straight line
to the stern. This does not include outboard motors, brackets,
rudders, bow attachments, or swim platforms and ladders that are
not a molded part of the hull.
Picture of Length Measurement of
Inboard Motor Boat:
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Picture of Length Measurement of
Outboard Motor Boat:
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Vessel Capacity
 Always
check the capacity plate to make sure you don't swamp or capsize
your vessel. This plate is usually found near the operator's position
or on the vessel's transom. It indicates the maximum weight capacity
and maximum number of people the vessel can safely carry, and maximum
horsepower.
Capacity plates are required on single-hull vessels that are less
than 20 feet in length.
Personal watercraft (PWCs) and sailboats do not have a capacity
plate. Always follow the recommended capacity in the owner's manual
and on the manufacturer 's warning decal.
Verbatim Statute: Vessel capacity is regulated as per 323
CMR2.07(7).
Overloading: No vessel may be operated in an overloaded
condition. Overloaded condition means that the number of persons
on board and/or the cargo being carried exceeds the manufacturer's
recommended limit for such vessel or is excessive given windy water
and weather conditions.
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