Personal Watercraft
Personal watercraft (PWC) often referred to as a JetSki™, Wave Runner™, etc.) are popular and fun to drive. In New York these are considered motorized boats, and there are special regulations surrounding personal watercraft use.
- PWC operators must be 14 years of age, or older.
- All PWC operators must successfully complete a safe boating course.
- Operation of any personal watercraft after dusk and before dawn is prohibited.
- All operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket that is appropriately sized and intended for use on a personal watercraft. Most inflatable lifejackets are not approved for use on personal watercraft.
- How to choose the right life jacket
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Specialty Craft
You may encounter some new and unusual types of specialty watercraft, such as motorized surfboards and paddleboards, personal submarines, Jetpaks™, Jetlevs™, Flyboards™, and Jetovators. These are powered by waterjet propulsion, so they are subject to the same regulations as personal watercraft.
Check Local Regulations
Many municipalities have additional operating restrictions on personal watercraft. These regulations can range from restricting personal watercraft during certain hours or certain distances from shore. Some municipalities prohibit the use of personal watercraft altogether. It is up to the operator to know the regulations and laws.
Required Safety Equipment
Personal watercraft have different equipment requirements than other types of motorized boats. The PWC must have a backfire flame arrestor, muffled exhaust, and ventilation.
In addition to wearing a personal flotation device (PFD), you must also carry:
- A safe boating certificate
- a sound signaling device, such as a whistle
- a daytime distress signal, such as a 3' x 3' orange flag
- an engine cutoff switch, with the safety lanyard attached to your person
