It's the Law: Specifically for Skiing

Vessel operators towing a person(s) on water skis or a similar device have additional laws they must follow.

Requirements for Towing Skiers

• Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device must have a person older than 10 years of age, in addition to the operator, observing the towed person(s) at all times.
• A reasonable distance from other vessels, people, and property must be maintained so as not to endanger life or property. It is illegal to cause the person being towed to collide with any object or person.
• It is illegal to be towed on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device while you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• If towing a person behind a personal watercraft, the PWC must be rated for at least three people—the operator, the observer, and the retrieved skier.
• In addition, it is also strongly recommended that:
  • All persons being towed behind a vessel on water skis or any other device wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved PFD (this is required by law if being towed behind a PWC). Ski belts are not U.S. Coast Guard–approved.
  • Persons be towed behind a vessel on water skis or any other device only during daylight hours.

Hand Signals for Skiers

Knowing proper hand signals will help the skier(s) communicate with their vessel operator or the observer.

Back to dock	Skier OK	Skier down—watch!
Speed up	Slow down	Speed OK
Turn left	Turn right	Stop