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Course Outline

Observer Watching Persons Being Towed

Vessel operators towing someone on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device have specific equipment and observer requirements.

  • To tow a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device behind a PWC legally:
    • There must be a person on board the PWC, in addition to the operator, observing the towed person(s) or the PWC must be equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror and...
    • The PWC must have a capacity rating by the manufacturer that is at least equal to the total number of persons operating, observing, and being towed.
  • It is illegal for a vessel, other than a PWC, to tow a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device unless:
    • A person, in addition to the vessel operator, is on board and observing the towed person(s) or…
    • The vessel is equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror mounted such that the operator can observe the towed person(s) at all times or...
    • Each person being towed is wearing a PFD.
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