Hi all,
I just purchased a Sunfish for my boys and I (mostly them) to use at our place down on the Chesapeke Bay. This is our first sail boat but I have owned and operated power boats for many years. My older son is taking the small boat sailing merit badge at boy scout camp this summer.
On to my question: I am having trouble finding out what safety equipment is needed to use this boat on the bay. My powerboat requires PFD's, signaling flares, fire extinguisher, horn etc... I know on the Sunfish we will need to have and wear our PFD's but what about the other stuff?
As far as I can tell, the boat does not have to be registered since it does not have mechanical propulsion.
I would appreciate any input from other sunfish owners with knowledge of the MD laws or if anyone can point me to where I can find the correct regulations I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks!
It appears, as has already been pointed out, MD and VA are fairly lax about registration and safety equipment requirements for sail powered recreational craft under 16' in length..., lucky you ... my state is tax hungry for anything that hints of fun.I would appreciate any input from other sunfish owners with knowledge of the MD laws or if anyone can point me to where I can find the correct regulations I would greatly appreciate it.
It appears, as has already been pointed out, MD and VA are fairly lax about registration and safety equipment requirements for sail powered recreational craft under 16' in length..., lucky you ... my state is tax hungry for anything that hints of fun.
However, Chesapeake Bay is also a federal waterway so there's a third entity involved. The USCG's main concern is for having PFD's aboard and that is a requirement regardless of vessel size or type.
The rest of what you might bring along is left up to (I can't seem to find commonality with individual human judgment so let's say) good sense.
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Oh, you'll want to shoot a video of them putting theory into practice. THAT will be priceless (in a good way)My boys are really excited and they can't wait to get down to the bay this weekend to start learning how to use it. They are both reading the learn to sail in 3 days booklet and they think they have it all figured out already.
Every state has different requirements. Google "(my state) boating regulations" and look for official state DMV or Division of Wildlife or Parks & Recreation web pages. Again, every state is different, but one of those agencies usually handles the recreational boating. For example . . .Uhmm. . . Sunfish title? I'm in NC (North Carolina, to eliminate confusion). I have an old purchase receipt, but not a title. Do I need one?
Thanks for the links. . . . Don't have to register or title a Sunfish in NC (<14') if it doesn't have a motor.