The United States Coast Guard is sounding the alarm on the risks of illegal charter operations as the boating season approaches. With vacationers eager to hit the water, the Coast Guard wants everyone to watch for and steer clear of unlicensed boat excursions that could endanger lives.
With the safety of passengers hanging in the balance, the Coast Guard is diligently identifying and putting a stop to illicit passenger vessel activities. Whether it's the lack of a licensed operator, inadequate safety equipment, or missing inspections, these shortcomings in illegal ventures may result in dire outcomes, particularly during emergencies. The public can step up their safety by vetting the legitimacy of their chosen businesses, as reported by the United States Coast Guard.
Legitimate charters must display a Coast Guard inspection decal when they carry more than six passengers. Smaller vessels with a capacity of six or fewer passengers don't have this requirement but can voluntarily undergo a Coast Guard safety exam and exhibit a seal of approval. The rule of thumb is that all commercial operators possess a Coast Guard license, and those who comply with Coast Guard regulations are typically upfront about their adherence. The absence of such reassurance should be considered a red flag to potential customers.
The consequences for boat owners who flout these regulations can be severe. As per the Coast Guard's warnings, operating without the proper credentials on federal waters can lead to hefty fines or, worse, a Class D felony charge if a federal order is violated. Fines can rack up to almost $50,000 for lacking a Coast Guard License for a vessel that carries six or fewer passengers, or nearly $15,000 for not obtaining a necessary inspection certificate for larger vessels. The rules covering various categories of vessels and their operators are detailed in the 46 CFR Subchapter B for licensing and drug testing and Subchapters C and T for vessel size regulations, respectively.
