Requirements to Tow a Person With a Vessel

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

• Those being towed must wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, or III PFD.
• Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device must have on board a person who is at least 10 years old, in addition to the operator, observing the towed person(s).
• When towing a person behind a PWC, the PWC must be rated for at least three people—the operator, the observer, and the retrieved skier.