Crossing from Illinois to Indiana and back again sounds much more interesting on a sailboat. Visiting a neighboring state through Lake Michigan sounds like it makes sense when you have the resources to do it.
What many boaters forget is that two states sharing a border do not necessarily share the same laws. When you pass through connected waterways, you cross invisible boundaries that define rules and regulations you must follow. So if you are planning to take an interstate trip by boat, make sure you know the laws on both sides.
Operating in Indiana
The two states diverge significantly in boat operating regulations. In Indiana, no one under 15 years old can operate a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower or a personal watercraft (PWC). Every motorboat driver must have a valid driver’s license.
Minors (15+ years) who do not have a driver’s license may drive a boat. Boating is allowed if they pass a boater education course and hold an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) card. The course must be approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Specific regulations apply on public waterways. Indiana has major bordering rivers and lakes such as the Ohio River and Lake Michigan, and may have specific rules. Check IN.gov for specific advisories and information on water hazards in certain bodies of water.
Boating in Illinois
Over in Illinois, age restrictions are different. Persons under the age of 10 cannot operate any motorized vessel. Children 10 to 12 years of age may operate a motorized vessel with more than 10 hp only if accompanied by a/an:
- Parent
- Guardian
- Individual at least 18 years old designated by the parent or guardian
Minors over 12 years of age can operate alone when they complete a boating safety course. Minors must also have a Boating Safety Certificate issued by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. For those born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, they must have a valid Boating Safety Certificate too.
Illinois has more bodies of water, especially rivers. The Wabash River and Kankakee River are just two examples of waterways connecting to Indiana. While Illinois has more bodies of water for public use, be mindful of local regulations on activities like wakeboarding.
The cost of accidents
If you are planning an interstate trip, check if you have all the necessary requirements to legally operate in both states. You must be able to adapt to local regulations. Indiana has much tighter rules which it enforces strictly.
Both states address boat accident timelines and costs differently. Here is what to expect in Indiana and Illinois:
Indiana
- Boat accidents involving death or disappearances must be reported immediately
- Accidents involving injury or property damage over $750 should be reported within 24 hours
Illinois
- Boating incidents involving death or serious injury must be reported under 48 hours
- Boat accidents with property damage $2000 or above must have a report within 5 days
A summer boating trip can be fun, but accidents are never foreseen. If the unexpected happens to you while sailing, ensure you have the means to navigate the legal processes as well.
