Date: 12/26/03
Author: Cary Dixon

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We've all seen the capacity plate affixed near the helm of our favorite towboat. But, aside from the number of weekend warriors we can pack in for a Saturday afternoon session, what purpose does this information serve? The federal law requires boat manufacturers to install a capacity plate on motorized vessels less than 20 feet in length. They typically look something like this:

The terms loading or capacity plates relate to the weight of people, fuel and gear that can be safely carried. It's a common practice of many wakeboarders to load a boat with anything in hopes of creating the epic, liquid launch ramp. We all know that a larger wake equals bigger air. This generally involves numerous water-filled sacks, sand bags, concrete and any other dense material thrown into the boat (it's important to mention that I am not referring to my riding crew as "dense," although they do provide considerable weight). But, the issue then begs the question… How much weight is too much?

The calculations involve many variables and definitions that are both difficult to understand and even more difficult to actually work out, so I'll try to give you the paraphrased version by breaking it down as simple as possible below:

Formula to Determine Safe Load: Length in Feet x Width in Feet / 15 = Number of Persons

For example, my VLX is 21 feet long with a 93-inch beam (width). Therefore, after converting 93 inches to 7.75 feet, the math looks like this:

21 X 7 = 147 (round 7.75 down to 7 for conservative estimate)
147 / 15 = 9.8 (round to 10)

Since "persons" are considered to average 150 pounds (only in these computations, not my crew), multiply your number of persons by 150. For my example, 10 X 150 = 1500 lbs. total persons.

Often overlooked is the potential consequence of grossly exceeding a boat's weight limit. I admit to carrying a "few" additional pounds in my boat, but I remain within my weight limit. The critical issues to consider when adding weight to your boat are what, where and how this additional weight loaded?

First, let's consider the source of weight. Believe it or not, this can make a big difference in your boat's performance and handling. Static weight is stuff that will not move, slide or shift, while live weight can (and often will) move around. Of course, this move usually happens when one of your buddies (also considered live weight) swaps seats just as you lock in on your approach to the wake to throw down your signature move for the camera. You've seen it. The shape of the wake changes immediately.

Likewise, with half-filled water sacks or ballast tanks, the empty space inside allows water to "slosh" freely. Under certain conditions, this rapid weight shift could potentially cause your boat to become swamped or even capsize. Other live weights may slide around on the deck not only affecting the handling of your boat, but also threatening the unsuspecting digits that rest wearily on deck.

It's also worth mentioning that, contrary to popular belief, water added to weight a boat also counts toward your load capacity despite local lore that suggests otherwise. I've often heard the heavy-weight advocates propose that since water is 'neutrally buoyant,' it must not count as part of my load. WRONG! It's not neutrally buoyant inside the boat, hence the reason you bring it aboard in sacks, bags, tanks or plastic containers. The only time it could become truly neutral is if you submerge it. However, the whole point of this article is to help prevent that from happening.

Most of you know that to dial in your wake properly requires some experimenting with the load. Throwing two additional sacks at 500+ pounds in the stern is asking for trouble. Start small, make changes in increments and balance the weight to provide an even ride. The best rule of thumb is to use common sense, know your weight limit and don't overload the boat! If you have water rolling across the stern or the bow submarines each time you slow speed, that's a good indication that you've got too much weight on board.

With wakesurfing recently exploding onto the scene, I've seen some boats nearly awash. Again, it's all-good until that $45K boat turtles over in its own wake. Where you position and how you secure the weight could mean the difference between a great experience and a grave one.

Here's another interesting and little known fact to consider. In most cases, if you're involved in a boating accident in which it's determined that your boat is grossly overloaded, most insurance companies will NOT cover your loss! I'm all about catching big air, but I don't know if a couple of extra-big hits on a fat wake are worth that much scratch.

So, now that you have a better understanding of what all these numbers and information mean, how does this relate to law enforcement actions? This question depends on your area enforcement agencies. In some cases, if the officer determines that the boat is riding too low from being overloaded, you may be directed to correct the "unsafe condition" by pumping out water. If water is not your source of weight (e.g. lead, concrete, sand, people, etc.), you may be directed to the nearest pier or mooring until the condition can be corrected. The next option is a written warning or ticket. The decision is a judgment call made by the officer.

In conclusion, let's briefly review the affects and potential risks of grossly overloaded boats:

• May swamp or capsize the boat from riding low in the water (under some conditions)
• Sluggish acceleration, increased turning radius, slow response to steering and speed changes
• Gas consumption soars!
• Risk of ticket, fine or other penalty depending on state and local regulations in your area
• Insurance may NOT cover your loss in the event of accident

Boating is an enjoyable, relaxing and safe activity. However, it's important to educate yourself and your crew. Learn the facts, be smart and take responsibility for your actions to insure your safety and the safety of those that share the waterways. One of the single best ways to protect yourself is to wear a Coast Guard approved floatation device while riding. It can save your life!

For boating safety resources, please see the following: