Paddle Board Vs Boat: What's The Legal Verdict?

Paddle boarding, or stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), is a water sport that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves standing on a large, floating board and using a paddle to propel oneself through the water. With this increasing popularity, particularly on the East and West coasts of the United States, the question of whether a paddle board is considered a boat has come to the fore. The answer is yes—according to the United States Coast Guard, a paddle board is considered a vessel and is subject to the same boating laws and safety regulations as other small, manually propelled vessels like canoes and kayaks. This means that paddle boarders must adhere to specific safety requirements, including the use of life jackets, whistles, and distress signals.

Paddle boards are considered vessels or boats

Paddle boarding is a fun and increasingly popular sport in the US. Paddle boards are large, flat boards that float on the water's surface, on which a paddle boarder can stand and use a paddle to propel themselves.

As a paddle board is considered a vessel, it must comply with federal Navigation Rules and "carriage" requirements when operated outside of swimming, surfing, or bathing areas. This includes having a USCG-approved life jacket for each person on board, a sound-signaling device (such as a whistle), a visual distress signal, and a navigation light (such as a flashlight). These requirements also apply to kayaks and other manually propelled vessels of a similar size.

In addition to the safety equipment mentioned above, it is recommended to have a light available for night paddling and a rash guard for sun protection when paddling during the day. It is also important to be aware of the rules of the water and to know that motor and large sail vessels have the right of way over paddle boards.

While not a legal requirement, it is also recommended to have a boating license when using a paddle board, as this will teach important signage and signaling procedures that can improve safety on the water.

Safety regulations and requirements for paddle boarders

Paddle boarding has become an increasingly popular sport, but it is important to follow safety regulations and requirements to stay safe and avoid accidents or injuries. Here are some essential safety guidelines for paddle boarders:

Life Jackets and Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Always carry a US Coast Guard-approved life jacket or PFD with you when paddle boarding. The type of life jacket depends on the body of water you intend to paddle board on. Type I is suitable for open, rough, or remote waters, Type II is best for protected inland waters, and Type III is recommended for areas near the shore. If you are 12 years old or younger, you must wear a life jacket at all times while on a paddle board. It is highly recommended that all paddle boarders, regardless of age, wear a life jacket for maximum safety.

Sound-Producing Devices

Carry a whistle or other sound-producing devices, such as a "referee-type" whistle, to alert other boaters or paddlers of your presence and avoid collisions.

Navigational Lights

If you are paddle boarding after sunset or in limited visibility conditions, ensure you have a flashlight, lantern, or other lighting devices to signal your presence to approaching vessels and prevent accidents.

Distress Signals

Visual distress signals, such as flares or aerial flares, are crucial to have on board in case of an emergency. These signals can help alert other boaters or authorities if you require assistance.

Leashes

Always wear a leg leash to stay connected to your paddle board. This is important to avoid losing your board if you fall off and to maintain visibility.

Alcohol and Substance Use

Do not consume alcohol or recreational drugs before or during paddle boarding. Operating a paddle board under the influence is illegal and can lead to serious accidents or injuries. This includes prescribed medications that may impair your balance or judgment.

Weather Conditions

Check weather conditions, forecasts, and water temperatures before heading out. Be mindful of tidal currents, wind, fog, and other hazards. Paddle with a partner, stay close to shore, and always let someone know your planned route and expected return time.

Additional Safety Gear

Consider investing in a wetsuit or appropriate clothing for cold or hot climates to maximise comfort and avoid temperature-related illnesses.

Local Regulations

Check with your local authorities or license bureau for specific regulations in your area, such as registration requirements and boating license necessities for paddle boarding.

By following these safety regulations and guidelines, paddle boarders can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.

The different types of paddle boards

Paddleboards, also known as Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs), are large, flat boards that float on the water's surface, allowing a person to stand and paddle using an oar. There are several types of paddle boards, each designed for specific activities and conditions. Here are the four main categories:

Surf Paddle Boards:

These boards are ideal for riding waves and are typically shorter, with a narrower nose and tail, and more rocker (curve) than other types. While they are highly manoeuvrable in the surf, they tend to be slower and less stable in flat water. Whitewater boards also fall into this category, as they are designed for river rapids and waves.

All-Rounder Paddle Boards:

These versatile, multi-purpose boards are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. They are wider, longer, and have more volume than surf models, providing greater stability. All-rounder SUPs are suitable for a range of conditions, from flat water paddling to ocean touring and even small to medium surf. Their versatility makes them a popular choice for families.

Flatwater/Touring Paddle Boards:

These boards are designed for smooth gliding in flat water and open ocean paddling. They are typically longer than all-round boards and have a pointed nose to help the board track in a straight line. Flatwater boards are stable and designed for those who want to go on longer journeys or ocean tours.

Racing Paddle Boards:

Racing boards are built for speed and agility, providing a competitive edge in SUP races. They are narrow and streamlined, with a thin profile and a balanced rocker. Racing boards are usually made from carbon, making them lightweight. They are less stable and demand more skill to navigate but offer unmatched speed and manoeuvrability for racing enthusiasts.

Additionally, there are other specialised types of paddle boards, such as yoga SUPs, fishing SUPs, and inflatable SUPs, each designed with specific features to cater to different activities and user needs.

How to get on a paddle board

Paddle boarding is considered a fun and easy sport to learn. However, it is classified as a vessel or boat by the United States Coast Guard, and as such, is subject to the same boating laws and safety regulations. This means that you must follow certain safety protocols before getting on a paddleboard.

To get geared up for paddle boarding, you will need a paddle board, a paddle, a personal flotation device (PFD), a safety whistle, a light, proper clothing, a leash, and sun protection. The paddle should be long enough that it reaches your wrist when you stand it up in front of you and raise your arm above your head.

When you are ready to get on the paddleboard, follow these steps:

• Stand alongside the board in knee-deep water, just deep enough that the fins do not hit the bottom.
• Hold the board by the edges and work your way onto the board in a kneeling position, just behind the center point of the board. You can quickly locate the center by finding the carry handle.
• Keep your hands on the sides of the board to stabilize it and move one foot at a time to place your feet where your knees were.
• Instead of standing up in one motion, start by raising your chest while keeping your knees bent. Once your chest is vertical, extend your legs to stand up.
• Position your feet so they are parallel, about hip-width apart, and centered between the edges of the board.
• Keep your toes pointed forward, knees slightly bent, and your back straight.
• Look straight ahead at the horizon, instead of down at your feet.

Once you are standing, you can start paddling! Remember to always put safety first and follow the relevant laws and regulations for paddle boarding in your area.

The history of paddle boarding

The act of propelling oneself on a floating platform with the help of a paddle can be traced back to ancient times, with records of similar practices found as early as 3,000 B.C. in Peru, Levant, Italy, China, and Africa. In ancient times, people used boards, canoes, and other watercraft propelled with long sticks to fish, travel, and even make war.

The modern form of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), however, originated in Hawaii in the 1900s. Hawaiian surfers used paddles for convenience to take pictures of traditional surfers' training. John Ah Choy, a local Hawaiian, stood on his board and paddled out with a canoe paddle due to his old age. His sons, Leroy and Bobby Ah Choy, and their friend, Duke Kahanamoku, started to mimic this while teaching surfing to tourists. They did this to keep an eye on the surf students and monitor the incoming swell. This style became known as Beach Boy Surfing, named after the instructors, who were called Waikiki Beach Boys.

In the 1990s, Laird Hamilton redefined and modernised stand-up paddleboarding as a sport. The first magazine devoted to the sport, Standup Journal, was founded in June 2007.

Stand-up paddleboarding has since diversified into various disciplines, including racing, touring, yoga, whitewater, and fishing. Its surfing heritage and diverse disciplines make the sport attractive and accessible to people of all abilities.

In 2008, the US Coast Guard classified SUP boards as vessels, similar to canoes and kayaks. This classification mandates that SUP riders wear personal flotation devices when paddling in certain areas outside the surf zone.

Frequently asked questions