---
title: No wake zone
description: A “no-wake zone” is an area where vessels are expected to travel at slow (idle) speeds to minimize the wake.
image: https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/21118949/courses/pcoc2021/images/speed-limit-2-hr.png
---

### What does wake mean?

A “wake” is the waves created as a vessel travels through the water. 

### What does no wake zone mean in water?

A “no-wake zone” is **an area where vessels are expected to travel at slow (idle) speeds to minimize the wake**.

 

"Idle Speed - No Wake" Zone:  A vessel must operate at a speed no greater than is necessary to maintain steerage and headway.  The vessel should not produce any wake at this speed.

 

![No wake zone](https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21118949/hubfs/courses/pcoc2021/images/speed-limit-2-hr.png?width=1100&height=619&name=speed-limit-2-hr.png)

### How close to shore is there always a mandatory no wake zone?

There is no required distance for boats, but by staying **at least 200 feet** from shore or other structures boaters can reduce the likelihood their wakes will cause damage. Be aware of your environment and what's going on around you

It is unlawful to operate any motorboat greater than no wake speed in areas marked with regulatory "Idle Speed, No Wake" waterway buoys.

### How fast is idle speed on a boat?

“Idle Speed” means the lowest speed at which a vessel can operate and maintain steering control. At idle, a boat goes about 3 to 5 mph.

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