It's the Law: Specifically for Skiing

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

Towing Skiers

• It is illegal for boats or PWCs to tow persons on water skis, a surfboard, or any other device between sunset and sunrise.
• Boats and PWCs towing water-skiers or participating in a similar activity must operate in a careful and prudent manner.
• A reasonable distance from other boats, people, and property must be maintained so as not to endanger life or property. Buzzing or spraying another boat or swimmer is illegal.
• Those being towed must wear a U.S. Coast Guard—approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD.
• Every boat or PWC towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device must have on board:
  • A person, in addition to the boat operator, observing the towed person(s) or ...
  • A wide-angle rearview mirror mounted such that the operator can observe the towed person(s) at all times.
• If an observer is used when towing a person behind a PWC, the PWC must be rated for three people—the operator, the observer, and the retrieved skier.

Hand Signals for Skiers

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

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