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1. What is the minimum age to operate a boat?

The minimum age to operate a boat is 16 years old. Boat operators under the age of 16 must complete a boating course approved by the SCDNR to operate a boat or personal watercraft with a 15 h.p. motor or greater unless accompanied by an adult age 18 years or older.

2. Is it mandatory to wear a life vest/personal flotation device (PFD)?

South Carolina law requires all children under 12 years of age to wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD while on board a vessel less than 16 feet long. The PFD must be fastened and of the proper size for the child.

3. Is it mandatory to wear a life vest/personal flotation device (PFD) on a kayak or paddle board?

South Carolina law requires all children under 12 years of age to wear a USCG–approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD while on board a vessel less than 16 feet long. The PFD must be fastened and of the proper size for the child. Anyone over the age of 12 must have the PFD readily available if it is not being worn.

4. How far away from a dock/boat/person do I need to be for my wake not to affect them?

The minimum recommended distance is 50 feet.

5. What do the No Wake buoys mean?

This mandates that boaters travel at idle speed so as to not cause a wake.

6. What are some of the items inspected on a Vessel Safety Check?

• Fire extinguisher
• Flare
• Sound producing device
• Visual distress signal
• Life jackets/PFD
• Registration
• Navigation lights
• Proper display of numbers
• Ventilation 
• Overall vessel condition

7. Can I dock overnight at a Bluffton public dock?

No overnight docking is permitted at Bluffton public docks.

8. Can I fish on the public docks?

Yes, but boaters have priority on the dock.

9. How long can I dock at a public dock?

There is a 3-hour maximum time limit at Bluffton public docks.

10. Where do I register my boat?

Boats must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). More information can be obtained HERE.