Watersports and Signals BoatUS Magazine

To maximize fun and safety while towing a waterskier, make sure everyone on board knows these simple hand signals for communication.

By Chris Landers

BoatU.S.Magazine Contributing Writer

1. Faster: Thumb up

2. Slower: Thumb down

3. Go right, go left: Point right, point left

4. We're turning around: Driver's or spotter's arm up, pointing, making circles

5. Make another loop: Skier's arm up, pointing, making circles

6. I'm finished and letting go of tow rope: Skier uses a hand to simulate "slice across neck"

7. I'm OK: Skier in water, arms overhead forming a circle, fingertips touching

8. That's just right: Skier makes the OK symbol

9. Stay behind the boat. Danger ahead: Spotter extends one arm in front of his/her body and moves it up and down

10. Get me back in the boat: Skier pats head

11. Possible injury. Boat should return to skier immediately: No movement, skier in water

This article was reprinted with permission from BoatU.S. Magazine, flagship publication of the membership organization Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.). For more expert articles and videos to make your boating, sailing, or fishing better, visit BoatUS.com.