Oct. 16, 2025

U.S. Coast Guard Safety Alert 18-25: Sea-Doo Switch Capsizing Hazard

The Sea-Doo Switch is a jet-driven pontoon vessel featuring a center hull and two outboard sponsons that provide buoyancy and stability. Since the Switch's introduction in 2022, multiple capsizings have led to several fatalities and severe injuries. These capsizings have occurred when the vessel was operated with trim by the bow and the bow "digging into" the water. Weather conditions and poor seamanship do not appear to be significant contributing factors.

Sept. 25, 2025

Fall 2025 Issue of the Boating Safety Circular now available

Boating Safety Division, Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch Releases Fall 2025 issue of the Boating Safety Circular.

May 5, 2025

National Safe Boating Week is May 17-23, 2025

As Memorial Day approaches and our summer season arrives, it is important for Americans of all ages to learn about safety on the water. During National Safe Boating Week, the U.S. Coast Guard and its Federal, State, and local safe boating partners encourage all boaters to explore and enjoy America’s beautiful waters responsibly.

April 15, 2025

2024 Life Jacket Wear Rate Observation Study Report is now available

The Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division releases the results of the 2024 Life Jacket Observation Study. The purpose of the study is to determine the level of life jacket wear of recreational boaters throughout the U.S. The study was conducted by JSI Research and Training Institute in cooperation with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Jan. 16, 2025

New Interactive Local Notice to Mariners website announced

The Coast Guard recently updated the user interface to the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) and Light List (LL) App in an effort to modernize and improve the accessibility, accuracy and overall user experience for mariners and stakeholders.

Sept. 23, 2024

Fall 2024 Issue of the Boating Safety Circular now available

Boating Safety Division, Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch releases Fall 2024 issue of the Boating Safety Circular.

July 2, 2024

Operation Dry Water Heightened Alcohol Awareness and Enforcement Weekend is July 4-6. 2024

The Operation Dry Water (ODW) heightened awareness and enforcement three-day weekend normally occurs in conjunction with the 4th of July holiday.

May 10, 2024

National Safe Boating Week is May 18-24, 2024

As we near the summer season, tens of millions of Americans will take to our Nation’s waters to spend time with family and friends. As we enjoy our activities on the water, we must act responsibly to follow safety procedures when boating. During National Safe Boating Week, the Coast Guard urge all Americans to familiarize themselves with the best practices for a safe boating experience.

April 24, 2024

2023 Life Jacket Wear Rate Observation Study Report is now available

The Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division released the results of the 2023 Life Jacket Observation Study. The purpose of the study is to determine the level of life jacket wear of recreational boaters throughout the United States. The study was conducted by JSI Research and Training Institute in cooperation with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary.

April 15, 2024

Spring 2024 Issue of the Boating Safety Circular now available

Boating Safety Division, Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch releases Spring 2024 issue of the Boating Safety Circular.

Feb. 14, 2023

RBS Strategic Plan for 2022-2026

The U.S. Coast Guard's Office of Auxiliary and Boating Safety released the Strategic Plan of the National Recreational Boating Safety Program 2022 to 2026. You may find the new plan on the National RBS Strategic Plan page.

Sept. 8, 2022

Fall 2022 issue of the Boating Safety Circular now available

Boating Safety Division, Recreational Boating Assurance Branch releases fall 2022 issue of the Boating Safety Circular.

Aug. 4, 2022

2021 Life Jacket Wear Rate Observation Study Report now available

The Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division releases the results of the 2021 Life Jacket Observation Study.

May 24, 2022

Spring 2022 issue of the Boating Safety Circular now available

Boating Safety Division, Recreational Boating Product Assurance Branch releases spring 2022 issue of the Boating Safety Circular.

May 19, 2022

National Safe Boating Week is May 21-27, 2022

Each spring we celebrate National Safe Boating Week. The Coast Guard urges you during this week and throughout the entire year to follow safe boating practices and to exercise courtesy on the waterways.