NASBLA Public Library

This U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Alert highlights the hazards associated with passengers riding in the bow seating area of bow rider style recreational vessels while underway. Prompted by fatal boating accidents involving vessels that encountered large wakes, the alert explains how improper loading, excessive speed, rough water, and challenging sea conditions can cause a vessel to pitch forward, swamp the bow, or eject passengers. It emphasizes the importance of following manufacturer occupancy limits, weight capacities, and recommended seating positions, and encourages operators to relocate passengers from bow seating when conditions warrant.

The safety alert also provides recommendations for boat manufacturers and the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), including improved occupant position labeling, enhanced warning labels, and updates to industry safety standards. Intended for recreational boat operators, manufacturers, and boating safety professionals, this publication promotes safer passenger seating practices and increased awareness of the risks associated with operating bow rider vessels in wakes and rough water conditions.