Requirements to Tow a Person With a Vessel

Vessel operators towing someone on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device have specific equipment and observer requirements.

• To tow a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device behind a PWC legally:
  • There must be a person on board the PWC, in addition to the operator, observing the towed person(s) or the PWC must be equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror and...
  • The PWC must have a capacity rating by the manufacturer that is at least equal to the total number of persons operating, observing, and being towed.
• It is illegal for a vessel, other than a PWC, to tow a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device unless:
  • A person, in addition to the vessel operator, is on board and observing the towed person(s) or…
  • The vessel is equipped with a wide-angle rearview mirror mounted such that the operator can observe the towed person(s) at all times or...
  • Each person being towed is wearing a PFD.