In some scenarios, going too slow will be unsafe! If you’re in a shipping lane or you’re trying to avoid a collision, speeding up will be safer than slowing down, for example.
Speedboats can often go a lot faster than 30 mph (48 km/h), but they can become difficult to steer and control if you sustain speeds above that level.
In many states, you are legally required to maintain headway speed when you’re within a certain distance of other boats, docks, swimmers, or obstacles. [4] X Research source
As a general rule, always stay at least a boat-length away from another boat.
This isn’t to say that you can accelerate as fast as you can whenever there aren’t any obstacles out there, just that you should slow down when you’re likely to run into something.
Time of day matters a lot here. You always want to take things extra slow when it’s dark out. In fact, you’re best off not even boating at night if you can manage it. [8] X Research source
It’s also worth noting that speed is a huge deal when it comes to running aground. You’re more likely to damage your hull and turn a minor annoyance into a massive emergency by going fast.
Think about the difference between a car and a bike going 30 miles per hour (48 km/h). Driving the car will be no problem, while riding that bike is probably going to be terrifying.
This is part of why open motorboats (like jet skis and speedboats) are the most likely type of boat to be involved in a fatal accident—they’re relatively light because they’re designed for speed. [13] X Research source
If you ever find yourself thinking, “I’m not sure if this is safe or not,” you have your answer—you’re doing something unsafe. Never operate a boat outside of your comfort level.
You can look up your local boating laws online to see if there is a universal, state-wide speed limit where you live. Believe it or not, you can get pulled over by the coast guard or police for speeding. Penalties range from fines to the suspension of your boating license.
Keep your life jacket clipped and secured. The vest should sit tight against your chest and be snug, but not so tight that you can’t breathe comfortably and move around.
