The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries requirements for online boating safety courses changed effective January 1, 2009 and the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course meets those requirements. The old Boat Virginia course and test does not meet those requirements and was discontinued on December 31, 2008.

• Take the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course!
• Or, you can order the Boat Virginia Video Course

The course material below remains as a resource for all who boat on Virginia's waters—particularly experienced boaters who need a refresher, but not a boater education certificate.

Chapter 6: Enjoying Water Sports With Your Boat
Windsurfing

A growing water sport is windsurfing (or sailboarding). Windsurfers should:

• Dress appropriately.
  • Wear a life jacket (PFD).
  • Wear a wetsuit to avoid hypothermia.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Give this person instructions on what to do or whom to call in case you are overdue.
• Avoid becoming overly fatigued. One danger of windsurfing is falling off the board and being too exhausted to swim back to it. If you feel weak, furl– To roll up tightly and make secure the sail, lie stomach-down on the board, and stroke to shore.
• Always be on the lookout for vessels, avoiding them and their wakes– Waves that a vessel leaves behind as it moves through the water. Remember, your sail can block your view of approaching vessels.
• If operating in open water, be careful not to stray too far from shore.

	Beginners should learn to windsurf from a qualified instructor when winds are light to moderate.
	When participating in water activities that expose you to the water, such as paddling or windsurfing, consider both the water and the air temperature when deciding whether to wear a wetsuit or other cold water protective clothing.