Ah, the age-old question: Can you ride a jet ski at night? Whether you are at the lake, sound, or ocean, you’ve probably wondered if you are allowed to operate a jet ski at night. This article will answer that question, along with tips on how to operate it.
Can you ride a jet ski at night?
Most states have laws that prohibit you from riding a jet ski at night. However, there are 9 states that allow you to ride a jet ski at night.
The 8 states where you are allowed to ride a jet ski at night are Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, and Vermont.
While it is outlawed in other states, if there is a medical emergency that requires you to transport someone in a jet ski at night, you should do so if there are no other options.
If you do ride your jet ski at night, there are a couple of tips you should keep in mind.
How to ride a jet ski at night
When you ride a jet ski at night, you should have the right lights, plot out a route, check the weather, have a designated driver, and an emergency contact.
Lights
Each state has their own rules on what type of lights you need for a personal watercraft when operating at night. If you want some ideas for lights to add to your jet ski, you should check out my guide on the best jet ski lights.
Additionally, there are also some states that actually outlaw lights on jet skis. Lights can help you avoid shallow waters, which can cause rocks to get stuck in your jet ski.
I suggest you google your state’s specific requirements to be safe.
Aside from lights, there are some other safety devices you should bring. I suggest you bring a life jacket, flashlight, whistle, and first-aid kit.
Plot a route
If you plan to ride a jet ski at night, you should make sure you have a planned-out route. You should never go exploring in new territory at night. There could be sandbars, trees/vegetation, hard to see docks, etc. You also don’t want to get lost and run out of gas.
Ideally, you should have a jet ski gps that will help you navigate the waters at night.
Check the weather
You should absolutely check the weather forecast before you ride a jet ski at night. Due to decreased visibility, it is very hard to know what the weather will be by looking at the sky.
Additionally, the weather can change very quickly at night. If there is any chance of thunderstorms, I suggest that you do not ride your jet ski at night.
Designated driver
It is very important that you have a designated driver for the jet ski. It should be someone with a lot of experience on a jet ski, and preferably someone who has driven at night before. You should also make sure that the driver has a boating license for the state that you are in.
While this might seem obvious, under no circumstances should your driver consume any alcohol before or during the jet ski ride.
I do suggest that you bring water to make sure everyone is properly hydrated. If there is room, you should also bring some snacks.
Emergency contact
I strongly suggest that you have an emergency contact. Ideally, this should be someone nearby who has access to a boat or other motorized vehicles so that they can come to fetch you if something happens.
Do be aware that some states have laws that forbid you from towing jet skis at night.
Can you ride a jet ski at night in Florida?
No, you cannot ride a jet ski at night in Florida. You are allowed to ride up to 30 minutes after sunset, and 30 minutes before sunrise.
Can you ride a jet ski at night in Texas?
No, you cannot right a jet ski at night in Texas. You are only allowed to operate a jet ski or pwc from sunrise to sunset.
Can you ride jet skis at night in Alabama?
Yes, you can ride a jet ski at night in Alabama, but you must make sure that you have the proper lights.
Conclusion
Finally, make sure you have some fun. Jet skiing at night can be a real blast, so make sure you take the time to enjoy the ride.
Just make sure you stay safe and follow all safety regulations. And that’s it! So if you’re feeling daring, don’t be afraid to take a midnight joyride on your jet ski. Just make sure you follow all the safety rules and have a great time! Just make sure it is legal in your state.
If it is not legal but there is an emergency that forces you to ride a jet ski at night, make sure you take the proper precautions.
Oh, and make sure you bring your night vision goggles, because things get a little tricky once it gets dark. Happy jet skiing!
