When you`re on the water, don`t forget to share it with others. Keep an eye out for other boats, skiers and other hazards. A little common sense will go a long way in preventing incidents. The future of water sports will depend on the prudence and courtesy of personal watercraft operators. Finally, have fun and enjoy what Daytona Jetski has to offer. Note: This information is current as of September 2017 and is subject to change in May of each year. Please call SBB Boating Safety at 850-488-5600 for annual updates on this information or questions about boating safety course requirements. The following rules apply if a person is completely or partially submerged and uses a face mask and snorkel or underwater breathing apparatus. A diver`s descent warning device may be a diver`s descent flag, buoy or similar warning device. These devices are designed for divers and dive boats and are used by them to inform nearby boaters that divers are in the water in the immediate vicinity. The device must be clearly visible when in use.
The dive alarm shall meet the following requirements. Any person using, driving or being towed behind a personal watercraft must wear an approved Type I, II, III or V non-inflatable float (PFD). Inflatable PFDs are prohibited for personal use of boats. It is a violation of Florida law to operate a personal watercraft or other vessel under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. A building driver suspected of being struck by alcohol must undergo a field sobriety test and a chemical test to determine the blood alcohol level or breath. In Florida, a ship operator is suspected of being under the influence if his blood alcohol level or breath is equal to or greater than 0.08%. Anyone under the age of 21 who has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 or higher and who operates a vessel or actually has physical control of a vessel is in violation of Florida law. ID – You must carry proper identification when you are browsing, such as your driver`s license. You must use a personal watercraft appropriately and carefully.
Any person who operates a personal watercraft or boat with wilful disregard for the safety of persons or property will be charged with reckless service (a first-degree offence). All operators are responsible for operating their vessel in an appropriate and prudent manner, taking into account other maritime traffic, posted restrictions, in the presence of a diving pavilion and other circumstances, so as not to endanger other persons or property. Failure to do so is considered a reckless operation. Acts that unreasonably or unnecessarily endanger life, limb, or property are classified as reckless conduct of a ship (first-degree offense) under Florida State Act 327.33 (1). This includes, but is not limited to, a personal vessel meandering through congested vessel traffic, jumping unreasonably near the wake of another vessel, or if visibility around the vessel is obstructed, or swerving at the last possible moment to avoid a collision. A violation of federal navigation rules is also a violation of Florida law. Florida Vessel Registration Numbers – Florida PFD Requirements Navigation lights – Federal and state laws require that vessels be allowed between sunset and sunrise and during periods of limited visibility (fog, rain, haze, etc.) Navigation lights. The U.S. Coast Guard Rules of Navigation specify lighting requirements for each vessel description.
The information under the following link applies to vessels under 65.5 feet/20 meters in length. In addition to the above requirements that apply to all motorized boats: No person shall use a monohull less than 20 feet in length by exceeding the maximum weight, persons or power as indicated on the manufacturer`s capacity plate. In Florida, it is illegal to operate a ship while impaired by alcohol or other drugs. A vessel operator suspected of operating under the influence of alcohol must undergo field sobriety tests and a physical or chemical test to determine blood alcohol or breath levels. There is no minimum age to drive a boat. However, the boating regulations listed below and the safety requirements for boats are age-specific and would apply. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need a boat licence or boating safety certificate to operate a boat or personal watercraft in Florida? Anyone under the age of 22 (21 and under) must have a boat safety pass and photo identification when operating a vessel of 10 horsepower or more in Florida waters.