The U.S. Coast Guard stopped nine illegal charters in Fort Lauderdale waterways over the weekend, officials announced in a news release on Tuesday.
In the release, authorities shared images of the vessels that were stopped, which included a floating tiki hut, boats and larger vessels for multiple guests.
The Coast Guard said crews issued several violations during boardings, including:
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 16.201 – Failure to have a chemical testing program (drug and alcohol program).
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 25.25-5 – Failure to ensure Type I personal flotation devices for all persons aboard while operating as an uninspected passenger vessel.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 67.7 – Failure to have a valid Certificate of Documentation endorsed for Coastwise Trade.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 67.325 – Failure to have a properly endorsed Certificate of Documentation.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 15.401(a) – Failure to employ appropriately credentialed mariner.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 515(c) – Failure to have credentialed mariner in control while operating as a small passenger vessel.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 15.605 – Failure to have credentialed mariner in control while operating as an uninspected passenger vessel.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 176.100(a) – Failure to have a valid Certificate of Inspection.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 176.100(b) – Failure to comply with Certificate of Inspection.
- Violation of 46 C.F.R. 180.71 – Failure to have Type I personal flotation devices for all persons aboard while operating as a small passenger vessel.
- Violation of 19 USC 70 – Falsifying information to a federal law enforcement officer.
They reminded the public that “anyone paying for a trip on a passenger vessel should always verify that their captain can produce the appropriate credentials before embarking on any voyage. Likewise, charter vessel captains must comply with all regulatory standards to maintain the highest levels of safety for their passengers, crew, and the broader maritime community.”…