Life Jackets & Life Vests -
While we have life jackets or Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) aboard American Beauty II, passengers are not required to wear them at all times. This is because American Beauty II meets the guardrail height requirements set by the US Coast Guard.
This does not mean you cannot use them if you want to. We have more than enough onboard American Beauty II for everyone on board. This includes life vests sizes for both adults and children.
Occasionally families prefer this children to have this extra protection and we are happy to oblige (see photo). Just let us know and we’ll have them ready when you board. Captain Don or a crew member can help ensure the vest is worn correctly.
All of our life jackets are USCG approved Type I life jackets. They are examined and counted every season during our annual USCG safety inspection.


Type 1 USCG Life Jacket Requirements
- Buoyancy: Have a minimum of 22 pounds of buoyancy for adults and 11 pounds for children
- Reversal: Be reversible
- Color: Be international orange for visibility in emergencies
- Construction: Be made of foam, such as closed-cell PVC or polyethylene foam, and a synthetic outer shell, such as polyester or nylon
- Design: Turn most unconscious people face-up in the water