Boating Basics: Specifically for PWCs

Courtesy When Encountering Other Vessels

Jumping the wake of a passing boat, or riding too close to another PWC or boat, creates risks and is restricted or even prohibited in some states. The vessel making the wake may block the PWC operator's view of oncoming traffic and also conceal the PWC operator from approaching vessels.

Excessive noise from PWCs often makes them unwelcome with other vessel operators and people on shore. Be a courteous PWC operator.

• Vary your operating area, and do not keep repeating the same maneuver.
• Avoid congregating with other PWC operators near shore, which increases annoying noise levels.
• Avoid making excessive noise near residential and camping areas, particularly early in the morning.
• Avoid maneuvers that cause the engine exhaust to lift out of the water because that increases noise levels.
• Do not modify your engine exhaust system if it increases the noise. Improperly modified exhausts will not make your PWC faster and may raise the noise to an illegal level.

Environmental Considerations

When operating your personal watercraft, consider the effect you may have on the environment.

• Make sure that the water you operate in is at least 30 inches deep. Riding in shallow water can cause bottom sediments or aquatic vegetation to be sucked into the pump, damaging your PWC and the environment.
• Avoid causing erosion by operating at slow speed and by not creating a wake when operating near shore or in narrow streams or rivers.
• Do not dock or beach your PWC in reeds and grasses. This could damage fragile environments.
• Take extra care when fueling your PWC in or near the water. Oil and gasoline spills are very detrimental to the aquatic environment. Fuel on land if possible.
• Never use your PWC to disturb, chase, or harass wildlife.