Driving at a smart speed is very important.  Experts take years to develop their skills of knowing when to slow down and when to speed up and what the best speed is.  There are many considerations to think about when it comes to speed.

States have different rules for speed on a lake or waterway.  If you are on the ocean and far out in the water you can ride your boat fast and safely.  However, always use common sense when you are driving your boat.

You should consider the visibility when you are on a boat.  If you cannot see ten feet in front of you then you won’t be able to stop in time if you are going 30mph.  Foggy conditions mean you will be driving slowly or barely crawling and using fog sound signals every two minutes.

Know your location and any hazards.  If you are in a new place you might want to drive around the area at least once before you begin your fun.  See if there are any fishermen or other boaters.  Make sure that when you go up to high speeds there are not any hazards that can cause you danger.

Pay attention to the winds and the weather.  You should know the rules of the waters and where you are.  If you see any boaters in danger or that need assistance it is law that you stop and help them.  This could be a dead battery or a life threatening event.  It is your duty as a boater to help them.