Information for safe, legal, and environmentally-friendly boating on New York state waters in 2025 is now available from NY Sea Grant (NYSG) at nyseagrant.org/safeboating. Resources and links on the website for novice and experienced boaters include NYSG’s new Boating Emergency Equipment checklist by type of vessel, including paddlecraft and sailboats, personal watercraft, and motorized watercraft up to 26 feet long. Marina operators can download a rackcard version of the checklist.
For those who have not yet become certified to operate a motorized recreational vessel on NY waters, as required by Brianna’s law for all operators in 2025, the updated website provides links to agencies and organizations offering the required certification course. All operators of motorized vessels, including personal watercraft, must carry a boater safety certification card with them.
The new website also provides information on how to replace a lost boater safety certificate and how to have the certification added to a driver’s license.
Additionally, the updated website includes:
•How to request a vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or Power Squadron
•How to select a properly-fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device;
•Why and how to file a float plan
•Clean, Drain, Dry instructions for motorized and non-motorized boaters to help slow and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species between water bodies
•A link to the New York State Boating Guide in English and Spanish
•Bilingual boating and beach hazards cards
•A link to boating product recall alerts.
New York Sea Grant is a cooperative program of Cornell University and the State University of New York and one of 34 university-based programs under the National Sea Grant College Program. Its statewide network integrates research, education, and extension services focused on coastal community economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and citizen awareness and understanding about New York’s Great Lakes and marine resources. For information, visit http://nyseagrant.org.
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