5.8.2 On the water:

5.10 Competitive use – Powerboats

▪Ensure all occupants are secure

and use the supplied seating and handgrips;

Personal Watercraft – Jet Skis and High Speed Power Boats

The Powerboat Association of Northern Ireland is the National Authority for powerboat racing in Ireland. All competitive activity is run in accordance with the rules and procedures of the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM), which is the world governing body for Powerboating. The UIM rules set out requirements for vessel safety, skipper qualification, scrutiny requirements and safety management.

▪If intending to swim from your

boat, consider its freeboard. Check beforehand and make sure there is a suitable means to re-board from the water.

5.9 Waterskiing, Wakeboarding and towed rides

Persons involved in recreational towed activities such as waterskiing, wakeboarding and the towing of inflatable doughnuts, etc., should be aware of the following:

5.10.1 Powerboat Race Training

▪A suitable PFD/lifejacket must be

All participants and officials involved in powerboat racing must complete the relevant UIM Training Programme for their role. UIM Training Programmes are structured into three distinct modules – Basic Powerboat Training for those new to the sport, Advanced Training provides an introduction into powerboat racing and Competition Training to provide the skills necessary to compete in powerboat racing at a national and international level.

worn.

▪There should always be an

observer in addition to the boat driver aboard the towing craft.

▪Towing rides should only be

undertaken in areas either specifically designated or in areas clear of other shipping and water users.

▪Ensure your Insurance Company is

aware of these activities.

When waterskiing, both observer and skier should be aware of the correct procedures and signals required. It is recommended that individuals undertake suitable training and coaching.

There is a range of powerboat racing disciplines including Pleasure Navigation to Circuit Powerboat Racing on sheltered or inland stretches of water to Offshore Racing on open waters over set distances. For further information, visit www.powerboatni.org.

The Irish Waterski and Wakeboard Federation is the national body for waterskiing in Ireland (see Appendix 10 for contact details).