which life vest is required by law?

[BoBlvd]

my friend recently purchased a 24' bayliner cabin cruiser. he has type II vests already but due to the size of the boat, must we purchase type I vests for this vessel for it to be legal? most of our boating will take place at or near Sandy Hook and probally not more than 5 miles off shore... does anyone know the rules on this please?

Mike

[Bucktail]

As far as fulfilling the law, the type II vests are fine (as long as you have one for everyone aboard).  You must also carry a type IV (throwable) as well.

Read more here: PFD Requirements

[sealife]

That is the requirement but consider where you are going with the boat.  Inshore Type II are fine but if you are venturing offshore I would recommend teh Type I.

[BoBlvd]

thanks guys i actually really like BOTH of your replies!!! the first answer fills our legal requirements and the second post just makes dang good sense!!! thanks guys

[IrishAyes]

If you carry passengers for hire you need the type I. Private vessel type 2 or 3 fills the requirements. An inflatable does not count as a PFD unless it is worn. Just having it aboard does not go into the count of PFDs on board. (Unless they changed the law in the past several years).

[Bucktail]

An inflatable does not count as a PFD unless it is worn.

   Type V (inflatables) must be worn.