USCG shuts down charter yacht

Jun 19, 2018 by Triton Staff

A charter cruise aboard a Miami yacht was abruptly ended last weekend because of several safety violations, including an excessive number of passengers on board, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

A USCG crew boarded the 65-foot yacht Zenith at the Sea Isle Marina & Yachting Center on June 16 after receiving a call from a passenger who grew concerned when the yacht struck against the Venetian Causeway in Biscayne Bay earlier that day.

The boat was cited for the following:

  • Violation of 46 C.F.R. 176.100A for not having a valid Certificate of Inspection.
  • Violation of 46 C.F.R. 15.515B for not having a credentialed mariner in control while operating a small passenger vessel.
  • Violation of 46 C.F.R. 16.201 for failure to have a drug and alcohol program.
  • Violation of 46 C.F.R. 170.120 for failure to have a valid stability letter.

“We urge people to request to see the vessel operator’s valid credentials or proof of required inspection or examination before hiring a charter vessel,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Emily White, a Coast Guard 7th District watchstander.

There was no damage to the bridge nor injuries to those on board, according to a USCG report. The owner and operator of the Zenith faces maximum civil penalties of $41,546.

Topics: