Safe Boat Operation

Tips, tricks and useful advice on how to operate your boat safely.

Boat Operator Responsibilities

The Boat Operator’s Ultimate Responsibilities As the boat operator, you are completely responsible for: The operation of the boat. The safety of every passenger on board the boat. Any activities that occur on the boat. Practicing situational awareness at all times. The safety of anyone who comes into contact with that boat, including the safety […]

Boating and Alcohol in the USA

Boating and Alcohol Laws Unfortunately, boating under the influence (BUI) is a significant issue on American waterways. In fact, boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a factor in approximately 1/3 of the boating-related accidents and deaths in the U.S. Laws and Regulations for Boating and Alcohol Operating a boat anywhere in the U.S. […]

Protecting the Marine Environment

Responsible boaters understand that every time they place a boat in the water, they risk polluting the marine environment. Keep the waters clean by following both the federal and state laws that are in place to protect the environment. Unfortunately, the amount of garbage adrift on U.S. waterways is increasing. Floating garbage will damage your […]

Mooring, Anchoring, and Boat Docking Procedures

Boat Docking Procedures Just like parking your car in a busy parking lot, docking your boat at a busy marina presents opportunities for your boat to get damaged. Additionally, the weather conditions will have an effect on your docking procedure—wind and current in particular. To cast off or to return to the dock safely, consider […]

Boating and Alcohol Laws in Arkansas

Boating and Alcohol: The Laws Boating and alcohol laws vary from state to state. In Arkansas no person shall operate any motorized boat while they are under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination thereof. In Arkansas, a person is considered to be under the influence if: They have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) […]

Reckless Boat Operation Laws in Arkansas

Arkansas’ Laws for Reckless, Careless, and Negligent Boat Operation Reckless boat operation is not permitted in the state of Arkansas. Careless, reckless or negligent boat operation is defined in the state as operating any boat or manipulating any waterskis, aquaplane or similar device in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the […]

Boating and Alcohol Laws in Illinois

Boating and Alcohol: The Laws Boating and alcohol laws vary from state to state. In Illinois is is illegal to operate any boat, or manipulate any waterski, surfboard, or similar device while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is illegal for the owner of any boat to knowingly allow the boat to be […]

Illinois’ Reckless Boat Operation Laws

Careless and Reckless Boat Operation Illinois’ Reckless boat operation: It is illegal in the state of Illinois to operate any boat or manipulate any waterskis, aquaplane or similar device in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life, limb or property of any person. Examples of violations of Illinois’ reckless boat operation […]

Maryland’s Boating and Alcohol Laws

Boating and Alcohol: The Laws According to Maryland’s boating and alcohol laws, it is illegal to operate any boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or any combination thereof. Under Maryland’s boating and alcohol regulations, a person is considered to be under the influence if: They have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level […]

Careless and Reckless Boat Operation in Missouri

Missouri’s Reckless Boat Operation Regulations According to Missouri’s reckless operation regulations, it is illegal to operate any boat, waterskis, wakeboard, or similar device, in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life, limb or property of any person. Examples of boat operation violations may include: Operating in a restricted area. Disturbing […]