What additional equipment is required for boats less than 16 feet long?

For boats less than 16 feet long, the requirement for additional equipment includes having a ladder. This is primarily for safety and ease of accessing the boat from the water, particularly in emergency situations or when individuals are entering or exiting the vessel. A ladder can significantly enhance safety by providing a stable means to get back on board, especially if someone were to fall overboard.

In contrast, polarized sunglasses, depth sounders, and GPS units, while they might improve the overall experience on the water or provide valuable information for navigation and safety, are not mandatory equipment for such smaller vessels. The focus for shorter boats typically emphasizes basic safety and stability, which is where a ladder plays an important role.