FYI

SPEED REGULATIONS

In New York, speed is limited to 5 mph when within 100 feet of shore, dock, pier, raft, float or anchored boat.
Through the passage of local ordinances, counties, towns and villages may regulate the speed of boats in their jurisdiction out to the distance of 1500 feet from shore.  You should check with local officials for any local regulations.

When no limits are posted, you must operate your boat so it will not endanger others.  Your boat must be able to stop safely within the clear space ahead.  A skipper is responsible for damage caused by his wake, to reduce speed when passing a marina, fishing area, work boats or similar areas.  When encountering a marine regatta or parade, transit of the area is to be made with an escort boat.  If no escort is provided, the vessels may proceed at a safe no wake speed.

WATER SKIING

On the navigable waters of New York State, all vessels when towing a water skier must have, in addition to the operator, and observer on board at all times.  This observer must be at least ten years of age.  Water skiing must be restricted during the day to between one hour after sunrise and sunset.  On the waters of the Lake George and all inland waters of Chautauqua County, a water skier must wear a USCG approved PFD or ski belt.  On all other waters, if a PFD is not worn, one shall be carried in the boat at all times for the skier.  It is recommended that skiers wear a Type III PFD at all times when water skiing.

Water skiing is a team sport.  When the operator, observer, and skier work together, water skiing can be an exciting sport.

YOUNG BOATERS

New York State Law requires youngsters between ages 10 and 16 to obtain a safety certificate before they can operate a mechanically propelled boat alone.  To obtain this certificate, individuals must take the young boater's safety course and complete all the necessary requirements.  The course consists of eight hours of classroom instruction taught by trained volunteers.  The course and boating safety handbook are free for the youngsters taking the course.  Those over 16 years should enroll in New York State's Basic Boating Course or any other boating safety course offered throughout the state.  More information can be obtained by contacting the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

RESPONSIBILITIES BETWEEN VESSELS:
WHO HAS THE RIGHT OF WAY?

1.  A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of:

A vessel not under command (unable to maneuver).
A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.
A vessel engaged in fishing.
A sailing vessel.

2.  A sailing vessel underway shall keep our of the way of:

A vessel not under command.
A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.
A vessel engaged in fishing*.

3.  A vessel engaged in fishing* when underway shall so far as possible, keep out of the way of:

A vessel not under control.
A vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver.

* A vessel engaged in fishing does not include vessels fishing with trolling lines or other apparatus which does not restrict maneuverability.