NSW Maritime acting general manager maritime operation Trevor Williams said 2838 vessels were checked by Boating Safety Officers during Operation Tow Safe, which ran from January 7-15.

The North Coast recorded a lower than average compliance rate of 88.6 per cent (pc), with nine penalty notices issued during the operation.

"There were 153 penalty notices issued during the campaign, which represented an 89.9 pc statewide compliance rate," Mr Williams said.

"The majority of skippers were found to be doing the right thing, ensuring their vessels were appropriately maintained and that they had all the required safety equipment for their boat and the environment in which they were operating."

Non-complianc e with lifejacket legislation was also a trend across all regions, indicating a need for further education.

"Speed and insufficient carriage of safety equipment were the two biggest reasons for people being fined," Mr Williams said.

He said it was crucial to remember when towing - whether it be water-skiers, wake-boarders or people on items like inflatable tubes - you must always have an observer in addition to the driver.

"The driver needs a boat licence to drive a boat at more than 10 knots - the equivalent of a reasonable jogging speed," he said.

"The observer must be at least 16-years-old, or hold a 'Young Adult Licence'.

Failure to have an observer who fits this description can land the skipper of the vessel with a $250 on-the-spot fine, or a maximum of $5500 if the matter goes to court and is upheld.

"The driver and observer work as a team. The observer is the link between the driver and the skier or boarder ? the driver's job is to keep a good lookout ahead, while the observer tells the driver about anything affecting the person(s) being towed - including other vessels coming up from behind.

"Both the driver and observer must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs - and this applies to the person being towed too."