Surfing Stand Up Paddle Boards - The Uscg, Maritime Law And Sup Boarding

Surfing Stand Up Paddle Boards

Stand up Paddle Boarding is the fastest growing water sport in America today. Many SUP boarders use their paddle boards to surf. In fact, at many popular surf spots today you will see SUP board surfers. SUP boards have really changed perceptions of what is possible on a large board. The best surfing stand up paddle boards and the best surfing SUP boards allow SUP boards to do amazing things in really challenging surf conditions. There has been a huge change in perceptions about what is possible. Many times, changes in peoples interests and habits also require a change in the Law. In this article we explore SUP board surfing, the United States Coast Guard, and Maritime Law.

The United States Coast Guard Considers SUP's to be Vessels?

The United States Coast Guard has made the determination that "paddleboards," actually Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUP) are considered "vessels" and subject to certain boating safety regulations.

It Depends On What Your Are Doing

According to the U.S. Coast Guard directives, the USCG won't mess with you if you are on a SUP in the surf or on the beach. However, when you are on open water or in channels, the USCG does and will treat you like a vessel. Of course, these rules don't apply if you are on an inland lake or such. In order for Maritime Law to apply you must be on the navigable waters of the United States of America. Here is a simple rule, if you are on salt water and you aren't in Utah - then you are probably on the navigable waters of the United States. And if you are stand up paddle board surfing, then you are definitely in the navigable waters of the United States and subject to Federal Maritime Law.

What Boating Safety Regulations Apply To A SUP?

Like any paddlecraft, a SUP board operating outside a surfing or swimming area is subject to the NAVRLES, carriage requirements for PFDs, VDS, sound producing device, navigation lights, and accident reporting.

The Rules of the Road - also know as Navigational Rules apply to all vessels on the water - including stand up paddle boards.

How Realistic Is This?

That is hard to say. But how often are you carrying running lights and a whistle on your SUP? However, you need to know that if you are in a shipping channel (think Ralph's off Point Loma or Ala Moana Harbor) then you really need to stay out of the way of other vessels. Otherwise, you may be visiting with the USCG. And that is no day at the beach.

Disclaimer

This SUP article is not legal advice. I am simplistic in order to achieve clarity. Your circumstances and/or situation may differ from those described in this article. As David Jackson said, "Whoever catches the most waves has the most fun. And whoever has the most fun wins." Have fun.