It's the Law: Specifically for
Boaters Who Tow
Vessel operators towing a barefoot skier or a person
on water skis, an aquaplane, a tube, a kneeboard, or any other device have additional laws.
Requirements for Towing Skiers
- All persons being towed behind a vessel on water skis or any other device must wear a U.S. Coast Guard—approved Type I, II, or III personal flotation device (life jacket). Ski belts are not approved personal flotation devices and are illegal.
- In addition to the operator, an observer must be on board to observe the progress of the person being towed. The observer must be at least 13 years old, able to determine when a skier is in trouble, and able to assist the skier.
- No more than two persons may be towed from a single vessel at any one time. If two persons are being towed, there must be two observers on board, in addition to the operator, who meet the requirements above.
- Persons may be towed behind a vessel on water skis or any other device during daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) only.
- The operator of the towing vessel and the person being towed are responsible for following all other navigation rules and boating laws.
- When returning to the shore with a skier, the towing vessel and the skier must remain at least 150 feet from shore.
Hand Signals for Skiers
Knowing proper hand signals will help the skier(s) communicate
with their boat operator or the observer.
Skier OK |
Skier down—watch! |
Stop |
Speed up |
Slow down |
Speed OK |
Turn left |
Turn right |
|
