During a U-turn or S-turn around a skier, on which side should the boat stay?

During a U-turn or S-turn around a skier, on which side should the boat stay?

• A. On the driver's side
• B. On the skier's side
• C. In the middle
• D. Behind the skier

Answer: (A)

Staying on the driver's side while you set up and execute a U-turn or S-turn around a skier gives the operator the best control and visibility. From this position you can continually watch the skier and the tow rope, judge distance and speed, and steer smoothly through the turn to keep the rope taut and the skier in a safe, consistent path. Being on the skier’s side or in the middle or behind reduces your field of view and makes it harder to manage the rope and boat maneuvering, increasing the risk of a collision, a loss of control, or interference with the skier’s line.

Staying on the driver's side while you set up and execute a U-turn or S-turn around a skier gives the operator the best control and visibility. From this position you can continually watch the skier and the tow rope, judge distance and speed, and steer smoothly through the turn to keep the rope taut and the skier in a safe, consistent path. Being on the skier’s side or in the middle or behind reduces your field of view and makes it harder to manage the rope and boat maneuvering, increasing the risk of a collision, a loss of control, or interference with the skier’s line.