LOANING YOUR BOAT TO OTHERS

Occasionally, you may want to loan your boat to a family member or close friend. If you decide to loan your boat, here are a few important items to consider:

• Is the person of legal operating age? Do they need a boat safety certificate to operate a boat?
• How much experience does the person have? In some states it is illegal to give permission to someone to use your boat if they do not have boating experience.
• Is the person covered under an insurance policy?
• Do they have the registration card for the boat?

PWC are often loaned to other operators more than any other type of boat on the water. Parents allow young operators to venture out on their own, and other owners will let family or friends use the PWC. Since PWC are loaned more than other boats, there is a greater chance of them being involved in a boating accident. Always take the proper precautions when loaning a boat and ensure the operator has a fundamental understanding of how the craft operates and what the rules/laws are that govern PWC operation.

Take the time to show anyone to whom you loan your PWC how to operate the craft safely and how to use each piece of equipment.
Accompany them on the first outing to assist them in learning the unique operating characteristics of your boat.