Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Safe Speed and Unlawful Operation of a Vessel
Safe Speed
A safe speed is a speed less than the maximum at which the operator
can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and stop
within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and
conditions.
In establishing a safe operating speed, the operator must take
into account visibility; traffic density; ability to maneuver the
vessel (stopping distance and turning ability); background light
at night; proximity of navigational hazards; draft of the vessel;
limitations of radar equipment; and the state of wind, sea, and
current.
Unlawful Operation of a Vessel
Reckless operation of a vessel is illegal in Virginia. Reckless
operation of a vessel is defined as the failure to exercise the
care necessary to prevent the endangerment of life, limb, or property
of any other person. Some examples of illegal and reckless operation
are:
- Operating in a reckless manner such as jumping wakes close
to another vessel or weaving in and out of waterway traffic.
- Failing to obey any regulatory marker. For example, it is illegal
to boat in restricted areas, such as swimming areas, that have
been marked clearly by buoys or in some other manner.
- Operating at speeds that are not reasonable and prudent based
on boating traffic, weather conditions, visibility, or other
potential hazards. If no limits are posted, you should operate
a vessel so that it does not endanger others. Vessel speed should
always be maintained so that the vessel can be stopped safely.
- Operating any vessel at greater than no
wake or idle speed when within 50 feet of:
- Docks, piers, or boathouses
- Boat ramps
- Persons in the water (note that this does not apply to
your towed skier)
 Causing
damage to a person or property with your vessel's wake. You must
reduce speed so as not to cause damage or danger when approaching
or passing:
- Vessels underway or vessels at anchor
- Docks, piers, or boathouses
- Persons in the water
- Persons using water skis, surfboards, or similar devices
- Loading your vessel beyond the recommended capacity shown
on the capacity plate installed
by the vessel manufacturer.
- Allowing persons to ride or sit on the bow, gunwale,
or transom or on the decking
over the bow of the vessel while under power unless the vessel
is provided with adequate guards or railing to prevent passengers
from falling overboard.
This restriction does not apply to persons who need to be in
these locations in order to moor,
anchor, or cast off a vessel.
- Chasing, harassing, or disturbing marine mammals or birds with
your vessel.
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