Boating Basics

Know the Law
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=79A.60
To ensure your safety on the water as well as others’, it is important that boaters be familiar with state laws related to vessel operation.

Take the time to learn the regulations related to vessel length and capacity, proper fueling, and how to secure a boat to a trailer. Learn the right way to launch a boat into the water and familiarize yourself with the navigational rules and steps for handling bad weather and boating emergencies. Prepare a “float plan” – one that includes your contact information and the logistical details of your route. Remember to leave the plan with family or friends as well as the marina. The complete state law related to safety, education, navigation, emergencies, and much more may be viewed on the state legislature’s Web site.

Registering your Vessel
http://www.dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/boats.html
To operate, navigate, moor, or employ a vessel, you must have a Washington title, registration, and registration decals. All boat registrations expire June 30. You may renew your boat registration up to six months in advance of that date.

Navigating on Washington Waters
Safe navigation is the responsibility of all boaters. Even though no vessel will have absolute right-of-way over other boats, there are rules that every operator should know and follow. To avoid collisions on the water, boaters should follow there basic rules: (1) Practice good seamanship; (2) maintain a safe speed and distance; and (3) keep a sharp lookout. Learn more specifics related to safe navigation by downloading a comprehensive boating handbook called Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook http://www.boat-ed.com/wa/wa_specific_images/pdfs/WA_handbook_entire.pdf. Another excellent resource is the U.S. Coast Guard's Navigation Center.

Prevent Pollution
Spilling oil or a hazardous substance to state waters is illegal. Polluters can be fined up to $10,000 per violation or $100,000 for each day the oil poses a risk to the environment, or even more if the spill was intentional. Visit www.ecy.wa.gov/CleanGreenBoating at Washington Department of Ecology’s Web site to learn more.

Operator Age and Boating Education Requirements
http://www.parks.wa.gov/boating/boatered/
A 2005 law requires operators to take a boater safety education course before operating a boat in Washington. The law applies to operators of motorboats with 15 horsepower or greater. The new law will be phased in so that all boaters will be required to have an education card by 2014. In addition boaters must be at least 14 years old to legally operate a Jet Ski type personal watercraft. (Note: It is illegal to lease, hire, or rent a personal watercraft to anyone under 16 years of age). See the chart to determine when you must get your boater education card.