Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks - Lodging, Dining, Shopping, Golf, Attractions, Marine
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Lake of the Ozarks Missouri Boating & Marine
Whether you want to spend the day cruising around in a boat, do some skiing or hop on a waverrunner, the Lake has 54,000 acres for you to explore.
Staying Safe on the Lake of the Ozarks

For those who enjoy boating (don't we all!), here are Missouri Boating Laws and Courtesy & Safety Tips that will ensure everyone a great time.

Missouri Boating Laws

Boater Education; anyone born after 1/1/1984, who wants to operate a vessel on the lakes of Missouri, must have successfully completed a certified boating safety course and carry proof of successful completion.

To take the required boater education course please visit: http://www.boat-ed.com/Missouri/index.html.

1. Life jackets must be accessible for every person on board a watercraft. Children under the age of seven must wear a life jacket at all times while on board a watercraft. 
All persons must wear a life jacket when on a PWC.

2. Navigation lights are required on all boats underway between sunset and sunrise.

 3. Proper ventilation is required of every vessel.

 4. Fire extinguishers  are required equipment on all motorized watercraft carrying or using flammable or toxic fluid such as gasoline or propane.

5. Registration is required of all motorized watercraft regardless of horsepower; all sailboats twelve feet and over in length are required to be registered.

6. The operator of any boat being used for towing a person on water skis, inner tube or similar device must have another person aboard the vessel, seated in a position so as to observe the progress of the person or persons being towed unless the vessel is equipped with a ski mirror approved by the Missouri State Water Patrol, mounted so that the progress of the skier can be observed by the operator. An orange or red skier down flag must be displayed any time people are in the water. PWCs and moored or anchored boats are exempt from displaying the flag. 

7. Riding on the bow, gunwales, railing, top of seat back and decking over the back of a motorboat is prohibited.

8. All marker buoys, such as No Wake buoys, apply to all motorized vessels, including all personal watercraft.

9. Operating a boat while intoxicated is a state offense, subject to a $5,000 fine and 1-5 years in jail, for a felony conviction.

Boating handbooks are available at:
Any Missouri Department of Revenue License Bureau
The Missouri State Water Patrol (573) 751-3333
Online at http://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/WaterPatrol/index.html

Safety on the Water

The Lake of the Ozarks is a growing resort area with a myriad of activities that promise to make every family member's vacation a happy memory.

For those who plan on spending time on the water, here are some courtesy and safety tips that will ensure everyone a great time:

1. Be aware of those around you.

Drive on the right side of the channel or cove.
Look before you turn.
All boats have the responsibility to take whatever
action necessary to avoid a collision or accident.

2. Wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket while water skiing and while operating a personal watercraft. Small children or non-swimmers should wear life jackets at all times anywhere near or on the water.

3. Turn your lights on 30 minutes before sunset.

4. Operate your boat at a safe & prudent speed.

5. Newer boats have a safety cut off switch. Use it.

6. Upon refueling, check your engine compartment for spillage. Use your blower to expel fumes.

7. Get a voluntary inspection of your boat. The Water Patrol and the Coast Guard Auxiliary provides this free of charge.

8. Take a boating safety course. (Available through the Water Patrol, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Power Squadron, and online at www.boat-ed.com.) Remember, experience is not always the best teacher.

9. Consideration should be given to equipping your boat with a marine radio or cellular phone.

10. Don't drink and drive. A designated driver is as important on the water as on the land.

For more information, call:

Missouri State Water Patrol
PO Box 1368
Jefferson City, MO 65102-1368
573 -751-3333

Be aware, informed, safe and have a wonderful vacation at central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks