On February 6, 2023, the United States Coast Guard imposed a civil penalty of $98,364 on a mariner who was found to be operating a charter vessel in violation of federal laws near Destin, Florida.

• The violation was discovered following multiple boardings of the pontoon vessel over the past year by the Coast Guard Station Destin boarding team members, Sector Mobile Marine Investigators, and Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office officers.
• The boardings were conducted after the authorities received tips from concerned members of the public.

The extensive investigation led by the Coast Guard Sector Mobile’s Investigations Division revealed that the operator of the vessel had violated 46 C.F.R. 176.100(a) and 33 C.F.R. 160.105 on multiple occasions, according to the Coast Guard.

• The violation of 46 C.F.R. 176.100(a) was for failure to provide a Certificate of Inspection while carrying more than six passengers for hire.
• The violation of 33 C.F.R. 160.105 was for failure to comply with a Captain-of-the-Port Order.

Capt. Ulysses Mullins, Commander of Coast Guard Sector Mobile, stated that “Operators of illegal charters directly endanger our citizens.”

He added that it was a top priority for Sector Mobile to ensure that charter vessels operate safely and in full compliance with the law. He also emphasized that the Coast Guard, along with state and local law enforcement partners, will continue to educate the public and pursue individuals who violate the statutory and regulatory requirements of the Passenger Vessel Safety Act.

Owners and operators of illegal passenger vessels may face civil penalties of $60,000 or more for illegal passenger-for-hire operations, according to the Coast Guard. Charters that violate a Captain-of-the-Port Order may be subject to civil penalties of $95,000 per violation.

The Coast Guard has urged the public to exercise caution and consider several questions before taking a boat tour or chartering a vessel. These questions include:

• Does the vessel have a credentialed master aboard? A credentialed master will have a license in a book that looks similar to a passport. 
• If carrying more than six passengers, does the chartered vessel have a Certificate of Inspection issued by the Coast Guard? A vessel with a Certificate of Inspection will have a Coast Guard decal displayed on the outside of the vessel. If in doubt, ask the master or crew where the decal is located.
• If it is a bareboat charter rental (one without a crew provided), are you staying within the maximum of 12 passengers allowed plus the charterer? Are you given the opportunity to select a crew or provide your own crew in order to operate that vessel? 
• Are you aware that when you charter a vessel, you, the charterer, are financially responsible for damages and any liability claims?

The Coast Guard urges to public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious operations to the Coast Guard by calling (251) 441-8993 or sending an email to MobileSCC@uscg.mil.