On a jet ski or a dinghy, absolutely, but there are a lot of 26 foot boats where a kill switch just doesn’t work. You can’t safely operate them sitting at the helm, all the time.
Docking, for example, is usually done by lassoing a stern spring line while in idle forward. The low thrust of the engine against the pull of the spring line holds the boat stationary and pulled into the dock while the other lines are made fast.
You can’t safely dock, single-handed, if the engine shuts off when you step away from the helm.
I have a 20’ Bryant with a lanyard. Even in a boat that small, I can’t imagine wearing the lanyard while docking in a tight marina. For sure, I’d end up killing the engine by mistake, just when I’d need it.
You can unhook while at slow speeds.
That can be solved by you hiring an undocumented deck hand to ride along on your excursions...
The law only requires the use of the kill switch when underway at "headway speed" or greater. Lot's of tasks require the helmsman to leave the helm, but not as likely when going over 6 kts unless there is some emergency.
You can’t safely dock, single-handed, if the engine shuts off when you step away from the helm.
Agreed. The primary function of the kill switch lanyard is to disable the engine every time you reach for your drink or turn to look over your shoulder.