We want every trip to end back at the dock. Here are the boating safety on the Bay basics from the Maryland and Virginia agencies.

Quick answer: For boating safety on the Bay: in Maryland, anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 needs a boating safety certificate to run a boat. In Virginia, operators of motorboats with 10 hp or more, and PWC operators 14 and older, need a course card. Cold water is a top cause of boating deaths.

Contents

Cold Water

Maryland police say falling into cold water causes many boating deaths. Cold water can quickly lead to hypothermia. That is when your body loses heat faster than it makes it.[1] Wear a life jacket.[1]

Maryland Course Rule

If you were born on or after July 1, 1972, you need a boating safety certificate on board in Maryland. You get it by passing a NASBLA-approved course. You can take it in person, live online or fully online.[1]

Virginia Course Rule

In Virginia, you need a course card to run a motorboat with 10 hp or more, at any age. PWC riders 14 and older need one too. No one under 14 may drive a PWC.[2]

Check Wind and Tides

Wind can push the water above or below the tide tables. NOAA says wind forecasts get less sure after one or two days.[3] Check our tides page on the day you go.

If You Fall In

In fast water, don’t try to stand. Float on your back with your feet pointing downstream.[4]

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a boating license in Maryland? If you were born on or after July 1, 1972, you need a boating safety certificate.

Do I need a boating course in Virginia? Yes, to run a motorboat with 10 hp or more, or a PWC at 14 and up.

What is the biggest boating danger on the Bay? Maryland police name cold-water immersion as a cause of many boating deaths.

References

Check the water on our tides page.