Life Jacket FAQs
Do you have to wear a life jacket on a sailboat?
For safety reasons wearing a PFD while on or near the water is always recommended. While adults are not required to wear one, the US Coast Guard requires one USCG approved PFD for each person on the boat. If a PFD is not being worn, make sure it’s accessible in case of emergency. Children under 13 are required to use a USCG approved PFD while the vessel is underway. We encourage all boaters to also check their state’s boating authority for state-specific requirements.
How do I choose a life jacket for sailing?
Besides the obvious choices of your weight, your comfort, and the color/style, you’ll want to choose a life jacket based on the level of buoyancy you need and the conditions in which you’ll be sailing. We recommend visiting the US Coast Guard’s life jacket guide for more information.
What is the best PFD for sailing?
The best PFD for sailing is the one you’ll wear! Comfort is a priority when you’re looking for PFDs. The truth is, if it’s comfortable and unintrusive, you’re less likely to take it off — so it’s more likely to work.
When it comes to safety, equipment quality matters. PFDs are a critical piece of equipment that every sailor should invest in. More technical life jacket models will have a higher price point but are designed to be less cumbersome and will keep a person’s head above the water even when unconscious. High visibility elements like bright colors and reflective hoods will help you be more easily located if overboard. Some models even trigger automatic air inflation upon water impact but are specially designed to not activate when in the rain or splashed by waves..
Testimonials
The club is patient with new sailors, like myself, and the employees both in the office and on the dock were always patient and helpful, taking time to explain things. Avoid the hassles of boat ownership, and just get a membership here!
Jai Karve via Google Reviews
Great club with excellent instructors and a fantastic fleet of well maintained boats.
Aaron Webb via Google Reviews
