Requirements to Tow a Person With a Vessel

Boat and PWC operators towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device have specific equipment and observer requirements.

• Every person being towed behind a vessel on water skis, a surfboard, or similar device must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III PFD. Inflatable PFDs may not be used.
• Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device must have a person, in addition to the vessel operator, observing the towed person(s) at all times.