Virginia Watercraft Owner's Guide
Water Skiing Safety
The boating law contains several provisions relating to the towing of persons on water skis, aquaplanes, and similar devices; and the manipulation of such devices by the person being towed. This is especially important when towing people from a small boat, such as a PWC.
- All boats towing a water skier(s) or other persons on towed devices MUST have ONE of the following:
- a. Persons being towed must be wearing a USCG approved life jacket or
- b.There must be an observer on the boat (in addition to the operator) who is in a position to observe the progress of the skier.
- A person(s) being towed on water skis or other device may not operate in a reckless or dangerous manner.
- A person(s) being towed on water skis or other device may not operate while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription narcotics and illegal drugs.
- The operator of the boat towing a water skier(s) or person(s) on another towing device may not manipulate or control the boat so as to cause the person(s) being towed to collide with any object or person.
- Water skiing (or towing of people on other devices) is allowed only between one-half before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. Check the official sunrise and sunset times for your area.