Tag Archives: watersports safety

WATERSPORTS FUN

Rules are inevitable. They are for your safety. Kayaks, skis, towable wakeboards, and bananas are great toys to have on a mega yacht charter.  The most requested aquasport equipment is the personal watercraft (PWC).  Jetskis and waverunners are fashionable on yachts for hire, particularly the newest yachts available for charter.

KNOW THE RULES FOR WATERCRAFT

Firstly, charter clients can end up frustrated and disappointed if they are not aware of the rules regarding the use of PWC’s in certain cruising grounds. Waverunners not allowed in certain protected bays and coves, some governments require the operator of the PWC to have a license – and please note: an automobile driver’s license is NOT sufficient.

Secondly, before you sign your rental yacht agreement, look for a very standard clause similar to this:

“Use of personal water craft is only permitted subject to the operator having the appropriate license and meeting with local operating regulations.  Any liability arising from noncompliance is entirely at the operator’s risk.”

Bottom line, just because your yacht carries waverunners onboard does not mean you can legally use them.

HOW TO GET A PWC LICENSE TO FOLLOW RULES

Thirdly, get a license!   One way to obtain a PWC license is via one of many online boating safety courses.  Courses may vary from state to state and from country to country.  Fortunately, many PWC licenses are recognized and accepted in major charter destinations like the Western Med.

ONLINE  SAFETY COURSES

1. PWC Safety School
2. Boat U.S. Foundation 

IN-PERSON TRAINING

For students who prefer hands-on training, there are many accredited boating safety training centers and schools around the world, such as:

1. Guardian Marine (UK)
2. Riviera Sea School (France)

FINALLY, YOU HAVE YOUR LICENSE, NOW WHAT?

Once you obtain your PWC license, be sure to discuss with your crew your desire to use the yacht’s personal watercraft.  You might be surprised to find your cruising ground does not permit the use of PWC’s – license or not!  

This is especially true in areas with sensitive eco systems.  British Virgin Islands yacht charters, for example, are not allowed to use PWC’s anywhere in the island chain.

In conclusion, knowing the rules for operating personal watercraft before your charter will help make your vacation safer and memorable for all the right reasons!  

LEARN THE RULES AND BOOK YOUR TRIP

From waverunners to mini submarines, click https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ and let our experts help you select the perfect yacht with watertoys for you and your family.

This entry was posted in Educational Gadgets Yacht Charter and tagged yacht charter safety, yacht charter, what are the rules for using watertoys on a yacht, know the rules on a yacht, legality on yacht charter, banana, noncompliance, rules, watersports safety, waverunners, jetskis, towable toys, yacht charter vacation, Personal Watercraft (PWC)