When is it legal to operate a boat at a speed greater than idle?

Operating a boat at a speed greater than idle is permitted when you are not in a no-wake zone. No-wake zones are designated areas where boats must travel at slow speeds to prevent the creation of waves that can be disruptive or dangerous to other boats, swimmers, and the shoreline. In these zones, maintaining an idle speed is essential to minimize the impact of boat wakes.

When you are outside of a no-wake zone, you have the legal ability to increase your speed because the potential for creating wakes or hazards to others is reduced. This regulation is important for ensuring safety and protecting the environment in areas where wakes can cause damage or disturbances.