General Boating Question!?

Question

We bought this new house came with a boat and I am wondering if I need a license to operate the boat in NY.

Do I also need insurance?

For jet-ski, do I need license and Insurance?

Answer 1

You don't need insurance, but if you have a problem and damage your boat or have an accident it gets expensive very quickly. Same with a jetski.

As for a license, you do not need a license unless you operate the boat for business, you do need a "certificate" to operate a jetski at any age or if you want to operate a boat and you are younger then 18 and do not have an adult over 18 with you.

Answer 2

The license? Do you mean to drive or to register? Both boats will have to be registered, but you will not need an operator's permit. If you have kids they will need operator's permits depending on age.

From the website: In order to operate a vessel in New York State (NYS) without adult supervision individuals must be at least 18 years of age or have successfully completed a safe boating course and be between the ages of 10 and 18.



Individuals less than 18 years of age who have not successfully completed a boating safety course may only operate a vessel while under the direct supervision of an individual who is 18 years or age or older. If the vessel being operated is a pwc the individual who is over 18 must have a boating safety certificate.



As of January 1, 2006, all personal watercraft operators must be 14 years of age or older and must successfully complete a boating safety education course to operate a Personal Watercraft in the State of New York.



Until January 1, 2009, those operators age ten (10) through thirteen (13) that have a boating safety certificate may continue to operate a PWC if they are accompanied by someone over 18 years of age holding a safety certificate of their own.  Accompanied for this section of law shall mean the adult must be within 500 feet, on another PWC or vessel, and within sight of the PWCbeing operated by the youth.



The required boating safety certificate must be carried by the minor at all times while operating the boat.

Back to TrueNorth advice: Insurance is a must, at least liability. Other insurance should be based upon value. Eg, if the boat is worth $400 and your deductible is $500, might not be worth it.

Answer 3

A safe boating course and certificate is required to operate a motorized vessel in NYS. Boat must be licensed. Same for a jetski