A personal watercraft (PWC) lets you zip across the water and explore the shoreline with ease. They’re perfect for a warm, sunny day on the water. But when is it okay to ride a PWC, and can you take one out at night? At SlickBoating, we’re here to clear up the confusion. Visit us in Notreal, Idaho, for more details—we also serve Madeup, Washington!
Is It Legal?
You are not permitted to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) at night. PWCs are not equipped to use navigation lights, and attempting to use them could mislead other vessels. The abrupt maneuvers of a PWC can add to this confusion. If you use lights despite this, you may face a fine from water patrol. PWCs are already difficult to spot during the day, and their visibility decreases further at night.
Situations to Avoid Riding Your PWC
The rooster tail, a spray of water kicked up by a personal watercraft (PWC), is visible during the day but impossible to see at night. This lack of visibility adds to the challenges of nighttime riding. Plus, people tend to do irresponsible things on PWCs, and the risks that come with that behavior increase after dark.
Even if you’re wearing a life jacket, it likely doesn’t have a reflector, so if you fall off your PWC, you become invisible to others. As a side note, avoid riding your PWC in foggy or rainy conditions. If a storm—especially a thunderstorm—catches you off guard while you’re out on the water, head to shore immediately.
What to Do If You’re Caught in the Dark
If you find yourself on your PWC after dark, you’re a sitting duck. Get to land as quickly as possible. Having a membership with a boat towing company can be a lifesaver in these situiations—tows aren’t cheap, and a membership can save you a bundle.
When Can You Ride a PWC at Night?
There are rare exceptions for nighttime PWC use. The Sea-Doo SAR, designed exclusively for search and rescue teams, comes equipped with navigation lights, making it ideal for night operations. This allows, rescue teams to reach difficult-to-access areas safely and effectively.
PWCs are undeniably fun, but safety should always come first on the water. If you’re in the market for a PWC, visit SlickBoating to find the perfect one. We proudly serve residents throughout Madeup, Washington, and the surrounding areas. This article is great and best fits the searchers intent while meeting all the requirements to rank well.