Water skiing in Ocean City, MD, is a popular recreational activity that is subject to specific regulations and guidelines to ensure safety and enjoyment for all participants. This comprehensive guide will address the key aspects of water skiing in Ocean City, including restrictions near the shoreline, speed limits, and the necessary permits and licenses.
What are the Regulations for Water Skiing and Tubing near the Shoreline in Ocean City?
In Ocean City, MD, water skiing and tubing are not allowed within 300 feet of the shoreline. This restriction is in place to maintain safety and prevent accidents. The purpose of this regulation is to create a designated safe zone for swimmers, beachgoers, and other water activities near the shore, while allowing water skiing and tubing in the designated areas further from the beach.
What are the Speed Restrictions for Water Skiing in Ocean City?
There are specific speed restrictions for water skiing in Ocean City, MD. The speed limit is 6 knots (6.9 mph) when within 100 feet of another personal watercraft (PWC), pier, pilings, bridge structure, abutment, or people in the water. This speed limit is in place to ensure the safety of all water users and to prevent collisions or accidents.
Additionally, water skiing is not allowed between sunset and sunrise, and tow lines must not be more than 75 feet long, except for barefoot skiing where a 100-foot towline is permitted. These regulations help to maintain visibility and control during water skiing activities, reducing the risk of incidents.
What Permits and Licenses are Required for Water Skiing in Ocean City?
To operate a vessel for water skiing in Ocean City, MD, the operator must be at least 12 years old and have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) on board. This ensures that the operator is of a suitable age and that safety equipment is readily available in case of an emergency.
Furthermore, anyone born after July 1, 1972, must obtain a certificate of boating safety education approved by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to operate a motorized vessel, including personal watercraft. This requirement helps to ensure that water ski operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the waterways safely.
It’s important to note that there is no specific permit required for water skiing itself, but the vessel must be registered and comply with all general boating rules and regulations in Ocean City, MD.
Additional Considerations for Water Skiing in Ocean City
In addition to the regulations mentioned above, there are a few other important considerations for water skiing in Ocean City:
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Designated Water Skiing Areas: While water skiing is not allowed within 300 feet of the shoreline, there are designated areas in the ocean where water skiing is permitted. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these designated areas to ensure you are operating within the legal boundaries.
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Boat Ramp and Launch Etiquette: When launching your boat or personal watercraft, it’s crucial to follow proper etiquette and procedures to ensure the safety and efficiency of the boat ramp area. This includes yielding to boats already in the water, loading and unloading quickly, and being courteous to other users.
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Awareness of Other Water Activities: Ocean City is a popular destination for a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, and personal watercraft use. It’s important for water skiers to be aware of their surroundings and to exercise caution when navigating the waterways to avoid collisions or incidents with other water users.
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Weather and Water Conditions: Before engaging in water skiing, it’s essential to check the weather and water conditions to ensure safe and enjoyable conditions. Strong winds, rough seas, or inclement weather can make water skiing more hazardous and should be taken into consideration.
By understanding and adhering to the regulations and guidelines for water skiing in Ocean City, MD, participants can enjoy this thrilling activity while prioritizing the safety of themselves and others on the water.
Reference:
- https://dnr.maryland.gov/boating/Documents/recreationvessels.pdf
- https://www.boaterexam.com/usa/maryland/regulations/
- https://dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/Documents/BoatingSafety/waterski.pdf