Boating Guide to Safe & Legal Boating in the U.S.
Whether you’re preparing for your first boating adventure or just brushing up on the basics, safety should always be your first priority. Boating laws and requirements can vary by state, but some essentials apply everywhere — from wearing life jackets to carrying the right emergency gear.
Let’s make your time on the water safe, fun, and worry-free.
Top 10 Boating Safety Essentials
Life Jackets
Every person on board should have a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved life jacket in good condition.
Life Jacket Types Explained (U.S. Coast Guard System)
Use: Open, rough, or remote waters
Buoyancy: ~22 lbs
Turns unconscious wearers face-up. Ideal for offshore or long-distance boating. Bulky but best for survival.
Use: Calm, inland waters
Buoyancy: ~15.5 lbs
Lighter than Type I. May turn some unconscious wearers face-up. Common on recreational boats.
Use: General recreation (fishing, paddling)
Buoyancy: ~15.5 lbs
Most comfortable for active boaters. Will not turn unconscious wearers face-up.
Use: Must be thrown to someone in the water
Examples: Ring buoy, boat cushion
Required on most boats over 16 feet. Not wearable.
Use: Specific sports or work (kayaking, rescue)
Buoyancy: Varies
Includes inflatables, hybrids, and work vests. Must be worn for approval to apply.
To simplify safety standards, the U.S. and Canada are introducing new life jacket labeling standards using performance levels instead of the old Type I–V system.
Each label now includes easy-to-read icons for use cases (like kayaking or sailing), conditions (calm or offshore), and turning ability in the water.
Here’s how the new system compares to the traditional types:
| Old Type | New Performance Level | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|
| Type I | Level 150 | Offshore boating, rough water, maximum flotation |
| Type II | Level 100 | Near-shore waters, some turning ability |
| Type III | Level 70 | General recreation (kayaking, fishing, boating) |
| Not applicable | Level 50 | Strong swimmers in calm water (not USCG approved) |
Reminder: Existing life jackets labeled as Type I–V are still legal and usable as long as they’re in good condition.
🔗 Learn More: Official Label Guide (PDF)💡 Want a deeper dive into life jacket safety and performance levels? Read our full guide →
