Today, we’ll discuss how to shop for PCW (Personal Watercraft) insurance and what key factors you should consider. Navigating the waters of insurance options for your watercraft can be challenging, but with the right information, you can make the best decision for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to personal watercraft ownership, understanding the nuances of PCW insurance is crucial. In this guide, we’ll provide insightful tips and essential knowledge to help you make an informed choice when shopping for PCW insurance. For more in-depth information and assistance, visit PersonalWatercraftInsurance.com for expert guidance and tailored insurance solutions.

Key Considerations for PWC Insurance Search

Before you start your search for PWC (personal watercraft) insurance, it’s important to understand a few key points:

1. Coverage Options: It’s important to familiarize yourself with the various coverage options available for PWC (personal watercraft) insurance. These options typically include liability coverage, which helps protect you if you’re found responsible for causing injury or property damage while operating your PWC. Collision coverage helps pay for repairs to your PWC if you’re involved in a collision with another object or watercraft. Comprehensive coverage typically protects damages to your PWC caused by non-collision incidents, such as vandalism, theft, or natural disasters. Additionally, uninsured watercraft coverage can offer financial protection if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured watercraft operator. Understanding these coverage options is crucial in ensuring you have the right protection for your PWC.

2. State Requirements: Regarding insurance requirements for personal watercraft (PWC), it’s important to check the specific requirements in your state, as these can vary. For example, some states mandate that PWC owners have liability insurance. Therefore, it’s crucial to be informed about the insurance regulations in your state to ensure that you comply with the law.

3. Insurance Providers: When researching insurance providers for watercraft coverage, it’s important to compare several factors. First, consider the coverage options offered by each provider. Some may provide greater flexibility in customizing coverage to fit your specific needs. Next, compare the rates quoted by different providers to ensure you get a competitive price for the coverage you need. Additionally, take the time to read customer reviews to gauge the satisfaction and experiences of policyholders. Look for insurance providers specializing in watercraft insurance, as they may offer more tailored and comprehensive coverage for your specific needs.

4. Discounts: When looking for insurance options, you must inquire about any available discounts. Factors such as completing a safety course, bundling policies, or having a clean claims history may make you eligible for reduced premiums. Taking advantage of these discounts can help you save money while ensuring you have the coverage you need.

5. Exclusions and Limitations: Understand any exclusions or limitations in the insurance policy, such as navigational limits or restrictions on modifications to the PWC.

5. Agreed value and actual cash value: Agreed value and actual cash value are two different methods for determining the value of an item, such as a car or property, in an insurance policy. Agreed value coverage is when the insurer and the policyholder agree on the item’s value at the beginning of the policy. This value remains fixed throughout the policy term, providing certainty to the policyholder in the event of a claim.

On the other hand, actual cash value coverage takes depreciation into account. It is the item’s current market value at the time of the claim, considering its age, condition, and any wear and tear. The payout under actual cash value coverage may be lower than the item’s original purchase price due to depreciation.

Choosing between agreed value and actual cash value coverage depends on the policyholder’s specific needs. Agreed value coverage may be more suitable for valuable or appreciating items, such as classic cars, antiques, or collectibles, where the market value may not reflect their true worth. On the other hand, actual cash value coverage may be more appropriate for items subject to depreciation over time, such as standard vehicles or household belongings.

When considering insurance coverage, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and determine which type of coverage aligns best with your circumstances and the value of the insured items.

Knowing these points, you can make an informed decision when searching for PWC insurance.

When enjoying time on the water with a personal watercraft, it’s important to be aware of some common mishaps and mistakes that people make. Knowing how to stay safe and protect your investment is crucial. For more information on personal watercraft safety and insurance, visit PersonalWatercraftInsurance.com. Some common mishaps and mistakes that people make when taking a personal watercraft out include:

1. Not wearing a life jacket: Not wearing a life jacket is a crucial safety measure that should never be overlooked, especially when engaging in water activities such as boating, canoeing, or kayaking. Regardless of one’s swimming abilities, unexpected situations can occur on the water, making a life jacket an essential piece of safety equipment. It provides buoyancy and keeps a person afloat, making it easier for rescue teams to locate individuals in an emergency. Therefore, it’s important always to prioritize safety and wear a life jacket when near or on the water.

The Lifesaving Importance of Wearing a Life Jacket: Sarah’s Story

As the sun rose over the lake’s calm waters, Sarah eagerly prepared her personal watercraft for a day of fun and adventure. She had been looking forward to this day for weeks and couldn’t wait to feel the wind in her hair as she raced across the glistening expanse of water.

As she powered up her watercraft and prepared to set off, Sarah’s friend James arrived, carrying a couple of life jackets. “Hey, don’t forget these,” he said, handing one to Sarah and putting one on himself. “It’s important to stay safe out there.”

Sarah hesitated momentarily, thinking she didn’t need the life jacket. After all, she was a strong swimmer, and the lake looked calm and inviting. “I’ll be fine,” she said, trying to convince herself.

But as they ventured further out onto the lake, the weather suddenly worsened. Dark clouds gathered overhead, and the wind picked up, creating choppy waves that rocked their watercraft. Sarah’s confidence wavered as she struggled to maintain control in the increasingly challenging conditions.

Suddenly, a large wave crashed over the watercraft’s bow, throwing Sarah off balance and tumbling into the water. Panic-stricken, she flailed in the turbulent waves, struggling to keep her head above water.

Thankfully, James quickly maneuvered his watercraft to reach her, and with the help of his life jacket, he could stay afloat and pull Sarah to safety. Shaken but unharmed, Sarah realized the importance of wearing a life jacket, even for strong swimmers like herself.

From that day on, Sarah never again underestimated the significance of wearing a life jacket when on the water. She understood that unexpected situations can arise, and a life jacket could be the difference between safety and disaster.

As she reflected on her experience, Sarah advocated for water safety, encouraging everyone to prioritize wearing a life jacket whenever they engage in water activities. She shared her story with others, emphasizing that a life jacket is not just a piece of equipment—it’s a lifesaving necessity.

In conclusion, Sarah’s harrowing experience on the lake is a powerful reminder of the importance of wearing a life jacket while participating in water activities. Her story underscores how swiftly conditions can change and how a seemingly calm environment can become perilous. Sarah’s realization that a life jacket can make the difference between safety and disaster highlights this equipment’s crucial role in water safety. Moreover, it’s essential to note that in most states, wearing a life jacket is not just a personal choice but a legal requirement. Sarah’s advocacy for water safety emphasizes that a life jacket is not merely an accessory but a lifesaving necessity that should be prioritized whenever engaging in water activities.

2. Ignoring the weather conditions: Keeping an eye on the weather forecast is essential before venturing out on the water. Failing to do so can result in dangerous situations due to unexpected weather conditions. Checking the forecast will help you prepare for potential challenges and ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience on the water.

The most effective method for monitoring the weather while on a PWC (personal watercraft) is utilizing a dependable weather app to review the forecast before departure. Furthermore, it is essential to remain vigilant of the sky for any abrupt weather changes. Staying well-informed about weather patterns and possible storms is crucial for guaranteeing a secure and pleasant experience on the water.

3. Overestimating their skills: Many riders make the mistake of overestimating their skills and attempting maneuvers or speeds beyond their abilities, which often leads to accidents. To avoid overestimating your skills, staying aware of your abilities and limitations is important. One way to do this is to practice and gradually challenge yourself in a controlled environment regularly. Additionally, seeking guidance from experienced riders and being open to feedback can help you gauge your skills more accurately. Remember that safety should always be a top priority, so it’s okay to take things slow and build your confidence gradually.

4. Riding too close to other watercraft: Remember to maintain a safe distance from other boats and personal watercraft to avoid collisions. When riding on the water, it’s important to be alert and aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety and that of others. Keeping a safe distance from other watercraft gives you enough time to react to unexpected maneuvers and helps prevent accidents.

The average safe distance from other boats and personal watercraft is typically recommended to be at least 50 feet. However, this can vary depending on the waterway, local regulations, and boat speed. Always remain vigilant and be prepared to adjust your distance based on the conditions and activity around you. Always follow the rules and guidelines for watercraft safety to enjoy a safe and fun experience on the water.

5. Failing to perform pre-ride checks: Remember to perform thorough pre-ride checks before setting out on the water. Neglecting to inspect the watercraft for mechanical issues before heading out can lead to unexpected breakdowns, leaving you stranded far from shore. Checking for potential problems beforehand can help ensure a smooth and safe ride.

6. Not knowing the local rules and regulations: One important consideration when operating personal watercraft is awareness of the regional rules and regulations. Each body of water may have specific guidelines that riders need to follow, and it’s essential to be informed about these regulations to ensure safe and responsible watercraft operation.

To find out the rules and regulations in your area, you can start by visiting the official website of your city, county, or state government. Look for sections related to local laws, ordinances, and regulations. You can also call or visit the local government offices to inquire about specific rules or regulations that you need to know about. You may also find information on local laws and regulations in newspapers, community bulletin boards, or community organizations. If you’re part of a homeowners association or a rental community, they should also have information about specific rules and regulations for your neighborhood.

7. Riding under the influence: Operating a personal watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only extremely dangerous, but it is also illegal. The combination of impaired judgment reduced reaction time and decreased coordination, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and endangering the operator and others on the water. It’s essential to prioritize safety and be responsible while operating any watercraft to prevent potential harm to yourself and others.

Statistics – The Dangers of Operating a Watercraft While Intoxicated

Operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or more is illegal in California. Just like drunk driving, violations can result in a BUI arrest. Despite this, US Coast Guard data reveals that the threat of punishment may not be enough to deter all boaters. For example:

• Over 280 boating accidents occur each year, where alcohol consumption is the primary contributing factor.

• On average, BUI accidents lead to 113 fatalities and 221 injuries annually, totaling 334 casualties. This means that drunk boating crashes typically involve multiple victims.

• In California, intoxicated boating accidents result in 5 fatalities and 18 injured victims yearly.

In conclusion, it’s essential to prioritize safety and responsibility when operating any watercraft. Avoiding intoxication is crucial for both personal well-being and the safety of others. Let’s all do our part to ensure that our waterways remain safe for everyone to enjoy.

DVL and Lake Skinner are drinking source reservoirs and, therefore no body contact is allowed. To comply with the “no-body-contact” requirement, the public must observe the following restrictions:

1. No PWCs of any type are allowed.
2. Boats shall not pull individuals or any recreational equipment (e.g., inner tubes, skis, boards, etc.).
3. All boats must be a minimum of 12 feet in length, minimum of 42 inches wide, and must have at least 12 inches of freeboard at idle speed.
4. Multi-hulled vessel without solid and fixed decking shall not be allowed.
5. Only sea kayaks at least 10 feet in length that provide seating for all passengers inside the craft. Rolling over kayaks is prohibited
6. Boats with sink drains and flush toilets must have the sinks and toilets rendered inoperable, or designed so that no waste can be discharged into the lake. Dye tablets may be added by lake personnel to test for leaks

• RCSA Sections 15-121-A11 and 15-121-A12, which deal with personal flotation devices and fire extinguishers, are repealed because they have been rendered obsolete by changes in state law;
• RCSA Section 15-121-B5 and 15-121-B5a are amended, and RCSA Section 15-121-B5(f) is added to implement changes regarding the acquisition and renewal of marine dealer registration numbers.  In combination these changes provide marine surveyors access to marine dealer registration numbers and increase the access of yacht brokers to such numbers by waiving the requirement that a qualifying broker maintain an established place of business.  An annual $100 fee is established for each marine dealer registration number, an increase from the current fee of $50 and consistent with the doubling of fees required under Connecticut Public Act (PA) 09-3.  Also, a one-time examination fee of $280 is established for a first-time applicant for a marine dealer registration number;
• RCSA Section 15-121-B14 is amended to express the Commissioner’s authority to make a temporary speed zone in association with a permitted marine event and in the interest of public safety;
• RCSA Section 15-121-B15o is added at the request of the local Harbor Management Commission to make the entire Mystic River a Slow-No-Wake zone;
• Subsection (a) of RCSA section 15-121-B18 is amended to expand the list of waterbodies where law enforcement agencies or other governmental vessels being used in the performance of official duties or an emergency are exempt from speed limits or other local constraints;
• RCSA Sections  15-140f-1, 15-140f-3, 15-140f-4, and 14-140j-3 are changed to accommodate long range plans to shift DEP’s role from teaching boating safety to providing education oversight, to allow the Commissioner to approve online boating safety courses as an option for obtaining safe boating education that leads to certification; to codify the doubling of fees set by regulation as required by PA 09-3, and to track and issue safe boating certificates and certificates of personal watercraft operation through DEP’s online sportsmen licensing system;
• RCSA Section 15-140f-5 is amended to require residents of the state who hold reciprocal-state boating credentials to also obtain Connecticut-issued boating credentials within 90 days of obtaining residency; and
• RCSA Sections 15-140f-2, 15-140f-4, 15-140j-1, 15-140j-2 and 15-140j-3 are amended to change the rules for equivalency examinations so that a person may sit for such an examination only once, and to raise the fee for such examination from $25 to $75.

All fire extinguishers must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, fully charged, and readily accessible.  When looking for an extinguisher at a store or marine dealer, it is important to look for the words “U.S. Coast Guard Approved” right on the carton.   Although two sizes of extinguishers are approved for recreational craft (B-I or B-II), most extinguishers on the market will be B-I. The words “Marine Type USCG Type BC-Size I” will be in small letters right on the extin- guisher’s label along with the approval number. The letter “B” means the extinguisher will put out flammable liquid fires. The letter “C” means it can also be used for electrical fires.

State of Wisconsin, invites you to safely enjoy the recreational opportunities available on our waterways. Wisconsin is rich with locations to enjoy time on the water including more than 15,000 lakes and many miles of rivers in addition to access to the Great Lakes Michigan, Superior and the Mississippi River. This regulation handbook is provided to give you knowledge of Wisconsin’s Boating laws. It also includes safety tips and recommended practices.

If you have additional questions, contact the DNR’s information desk at 1-888-936-7463 or visit dnr.wi.gov. Federal laws can be found on the U.S. Coast Guard’s website at www.uscgboating.org. New Since 2009 – new regulations to be aware of 1. It is illegal to transport invasive species, see page 14 for more details. 2. It is illegal to operate a vessel within 100 feet of the shore of any lake at greater than slow-no-wake speed, see page 15 for more details. Many of you are already experienced boaters, as you take to the water this year please take the time to educate a person who may be new to boating by explaining safe boating practices, boating laws and rules.

Experienced and novice boaters alike need to be mindful that our waters are being shared by many users with various interests. It is crucial to always be respectful of others. Historically, most of Wisconsin’s boating fatalities have occurred in small boats with victims who were not wearing lifejackets. Statistics also show that many accidents involve the use of alcohol and drugs. Boat responsibly by always wearing your lifejacket and designating a sober operator. At the DNR, we wish you an enjoyable and safe boating experience on Wisconsin’s waters.

If you apply for a new boat registration or renew an existing one in person at a deputy registrar (any- place you get your auto license) or the DNR License Center, you will receive your boat license decal and registration card on the spot. If you apply through the mail, it will probably take several weeks before you receive your decal and card. Sign your license and keep it on board when you use it.

If you are operating a non-motorized canoe, kayak, rowing shell, paddle boat, sailboard or sailboat you don’t have to carry the license with you. However, if an enforcement officer asks to see it, you must produce it within a reasonable time. The owner of rented watercraft may keep the license certificate at the place the boat is rented from. The name of the rental business must be printed on both sides of the rear half of the watercraft in letters at least three inches high. The number issued to your boat appears on the license. Except for non-motorized canoes, kayaks, rowing shells, paddle boats, sailboards and sailboats, this number must be displayed on the forward half of the hull on each side of the craft (see illustration on page 6 ). The letters and numerals must be at least three inches high, of a block character, and contrast with the background. They can be painted or attached to the craft. They should read from left to right and must always be legible. Before applying decals or numbers on the wa- tercraft, make sure the surface is free of dirt, grease, water, oil and wax. When you place your number on your boat, leave a 2 to 3 inch space – or provide a hyphen – between the MN and the four-digit number.

Leave another 2 to 3 inch space or hyphen between the number and the two letters which fol- low. Place the validation decal to the stern or rear of the license number within four inches of the license number (see illustration below). Remember, only the current decal must be visible. Remove the expired decals first, before applying the new ones.

The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) administers all boat titling and registration of recreational boats in Virginia. All motorboats used on the public waters of Virginia must be registered and titled. If the motorboat is principally used on the public waters of Virginia it must be registered and titled in Virginia as opposed to another state.

• A Certificate of Title (title) and a Certificate of Number (registration) are required for all watercraft propelled by machinery, including , but not limited to, gasoline, diesel, and electric motors. • A title alone is required for sail-powered vessels in excess of 18′ in length, even if they do not have a motor, all other non-motorized boats do not require registration or titling.

• Boats used only on private waters do not require registration or titling. • New watercraft must be registered or have a temporary registration before they may be operated on the public waters of Virginia. • Used watercraft with a current, valid registration may be operated for 30 days on the previous owner’s registration if a copy of the dated bill of sale and the registration card are carried aboard the watercraft.

• If there is no valid registration or the registration has expired, used watercraft must be registered or have a temporary registration before being operated on the public waters.

The registration sticker shows the month and the year that the registration expires. Attach each sticker in line with the registration numbers on each side of the hull, and three inches toward the stern of the boat.

NRS 488.730 Operation of certain motorboats on interstate waters of State by persons born on or after January 1, 1983: Requirements; presentation to peace officer of certain documentation; duties of certain persons engaged in business of renting or leasing motorboats.

1. A person born on or after January 1, 1983, shall not operate a motorboat that has a motor which exceeds 15 horsepower on any interstate waters of this State unless the operator:

(a) Has:

(1) Successfully completed a course in safe boating that is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or passed a proficiency examination if the examination was proctored and tested the knowledge of information included in the curriculum of such a course; and

(2) Received a certificate as evidence of successful completion of the course or passage of the examination;

(b) Possesses a license to operate a vessel issued for maritime personnel by the United States Coast Guard pursuant to 46 C.F.R. Part 10 or an equivalent license issued by the Canadian Coast Guard;

(c) Possesses a nonrenewable temporary operator’s permit to operate the motorboat which is valid for 60 days and was issued with the certificate of number for the motorboat if the boat is new or was sold with a transfer of ownership;

(d) Possesses a rental or lease agreement provided pursuant to subsection 3 which lists the person as an authorized operator of the motorboat; or

(e) Is not a resident of this State, is at least 18 years of age, is temporarily using the interstate waters of this State for a period not to exceed 60 consecutive days and satisfies any applicable requirements of the person’s state of residency or province relating to the operation of a motorboat.

2. A person born on or after January 1, 1983, who is operating a motorboat that has a motor which exceeds 15 horsepower on any interstate waters of this State and who is stopped by a game warden, sheriff or other peace officer in the enforcement of this chapter or the regulations adopted pursuant thereto shall present to the game warden, sheriff or peace officer:

(a) The certificate received by the person pursuant to subparagraph (2) of paragraph (a) of subsection 1;

(b) A license described in paragraph (b) of subsection 1;

(c) An operator’s permit for the motorboat described in paragraph (c) of subsection 1;

(d) A rental or lease agreement for the motorboat provided pursuant to subsection 3 which lists the person as an authorized operator of the motorboat; or

(e) Proof that the person satisfies the requirements of paragraph (e) of subsection 1.

Ê Failure to present the certificate, license, permit, agreement or proof constitutes prima facie evidence of a violation of subsection 1. A person who fails to present the certificate, license, permit, agreement or proof is guilty of a misdemeanor unless the person presents the required documents in court. The documents must prove that the person was operating the motorboat in compliance with this section on the date of the violation.

3. A person or an agent or employee of a person engaged in the business of renting or leasing motorboats for operation on the interstate waters of this State shall not rent or lease a motorboat that has a motor which exceeds 15 horsepower to any person born on or after January 1, 1983, for operation on the interstate waters of this State unless the person:

(a) Is 18 years of age or older; and

(b) Signs an affidavit that the person:

(1) Has successfully completed a course in safe boating that is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or has passed a proficiency examination that was proctored and tests knowledge of the information included in the curriculum of such a course;

(2) Possesses a license to operate a vessel issued for maritime personnel by the United States Coast Guard pursuant to 46 C.F.R. Part 10 or an equivalent license issued by the Canadian Coast Guard; or

(3) Is not a resident of this State, is temporarily using the interstate waters of this State for a period not to exceed 60 consecutive days and satisfies any applicable requirements of the person’s state of residency or province relating to the operation of a motorboat.

4. A person or an agent or employee of a person engaged in the business of renting or leasing motorboats for operation on the interstate waters of this State shall list on each rental or lease agreement for a motorboat the name and age of each person who is authorized to operate the motorboat. The person to whom the motorboat is rented or leased shall ensure that only those persons who are listed as authorized operators are allowed to operate the motorboat. A person who is under 16 years of age may:

(a) Be listed as an authorized operator.

(b) Operate the motorboat only if an authorized operator who is 18 years of age or older is on board the motorboat and supervises the person.

5. A person or an agent or employee of a person engaged in the business of renting or leasing motorboats for operation on the interstate waters of this State shall provide to each authorized operator of a motorboat a summary of the statutes and regulations governing the operation of a motorboat and instructions regarding the safe operation of the motorboat. Each person who is listed as an authorized operator of the motorboat shall review the summary of the statutes, regulations and instructions before the motorboat departs from the rental or leasing office.

(Added to NRS by 2001, 1717)

      NRS 488.580  Operation of personal watercraft.
      1.  A person shall not operate or authorize another person to operate a personal watercraft under his or her ownership or control:
      (a) In a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life or property of another person.
      (b) Unless the operator and each passenger is wearing a personal flotation device of a type approved by the United States Coast Guard and prescribed by the regulations of the Commission.
      (c) Unless the operator is at least 14 years of age.
      (d) Unless the operator satisfies any applicable provisions of NRS 488.730.
      2.  There is prima facie evidence that a person is operating a personal watercraft in a reckless or negligent manner if that person commits two or more of the following acts simultaneously:
      (a) Operates the personal watercraft within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel, unless both are leaving a flat wake or traveling at a speed of not more than 5 nautical miles per hour.
      (b) Operates the personal watercraft in the vicinity of a motorboat in a manner that obstructs the visibility of either operator.
      (c) Heads into the wake of a motorboat which is within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel and causes one-half or more of the length of the personal watercraft to leave the water.
      (d) Within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel, maneuvers quickly, turns sharply or swerves, unless the maneuver is necessary to avoid collision.
      3.  As used in this section, “personal watercraft” means a class A motorboat which:
      (a) Is less than 13 feet in length;
      (b) Is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on, rather than in, the motorboat;
      (c) Is capable of performing sharp turns or quick maneuvers; and
      (d) Has a motor that exceeds 10 horsepower.
      (Added to NRS by 1991, 852; A 2001, 1719, 1948; 2003, 74)

Prepare Your Boat for Summer! There are many items to check and recheck before launching a boat for the first summertime trip. If you want professional help, find a good boat mechanic and take your boat in for a full inspection and tune up. The Coast Guard Auxiliary conducts free vessel safety checks throughout the year, and they will check all your safety equipment to make sure you are ready for the water. If you do decide to “do it yourself” look below at the list of ten items to keep in mind before setting your boat on the water:
1. Check Life Jackets: Life Jackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on your boat. Ensure that they are still serviceable, with no rips, tears or other defects. Also make sure the kids’ jackets still fit.
2. Check Fire Extinguisher: Fire extinguishers have a habit of discharging over the winter. Make sure you still have a fire extinguisher in your boat and that it is still charged.
3. Registration Check: All boat registrations expire on December 31 of each year. Make sure you get a current decal on your boat before heading out.
4. Charge Batteries: This is an important on often-overlooked mechanical issue. No power, no boating. Charge batteries and make sure they hold that charge.
5. Electronics and Lights: Electronics can fail over the winter even without use. You should also make sure you navigation lights still work and examine exposed wiring for cracks and wear. Make sure that bilge pump still works.
6. Test Engine and Components: Go ahead and fire up the boat before you leave the driveway. Don’t forget your “outboard ears”—a device that cools the engine out of the water. Starting the boat before you leave can save you real agony, time and hassle at the boat ramp.
7. The Hull: Just walk around the hull to make sure it’s not cracked or damaged. A lot can happen in a year. Also make sure you have the plug for your boat and it is in good condition.
8. Tune up the Trailer: The trailer wheel bearings need to be greased before you leave the driveway. If you have a winch and other equipment, make sure it works.
9. Ski and Tow Check: Tubes, skis and other equipment must also be maintained. Rubber seals and inflatable devices can crack and leak. Make sure they are all ready to go, and don’t forget to bring your orange ski flag if you are going to tow someone.
10. Gas up and Go: It’s always a good idea to replace the gas from last year. Make sure your fuel lines are connected properly and have no cracks or damage.

Application to register a vessel may be made at any office of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Upon receipt of the required information and fees, DMV will issue a Certificate of Number, a Certificate of Ownership, and a set of registration stickers.

The boat registration number is the number (beginning with CF) shown on the certificates. Upon registration, your vessel may be subject to Use Tax based on the purchase price if it is acquired out-of-state or from a private party. For additional information regarding Use Tax, contact your local Board of Equalization or DMV office.

The Certificate of Ownership is your evidence of title to the vessel and, therefore, should be kept in a safe place. Certificates issued will also contain the boat’s identifying number (known as the hull identification number), which is the number permanently marked on the transom by the manufacturer or builder, or the number assigned by DMV and marked on the transom by the owner.

The reverse side of the Certificate of Ownership is an application for transfer of ownership. The Certificate of Number, or temporary Certificate of Number, must be available for inspection on the vessel whenever it is being used on the water. Proper display of the current registration stickers on the vessel next to the CF number is required to permit enforcement officers to determine, without boarding, that the vessel is currently registered.

Several operating characteristics distinguish PWC. It is expected that PWC operators will fall overboard as a normal part of operation. For this reason, most models have safety lanyards or “kill switches” that are connected to the operator’s wrist to ensure that the vessel stops when the operator falls off.

It is also expected that PWC will roll over in the water; in effect, they capsize on a regular basis. PWC owners manuals include procedures for uprighting a capsized vessel. According to an international group working on PWC guidelines, in traditional boats, falling overboard would be considered the first event of a boating accident, and capsizing and swamping are also considered to be boating accidents or emergency situations.

But for PWC, these are expected events; consequently, PWC are designed and constructed with somewhat different objectives than traditional boats