USCG shuts down illegal charter

Dec 6, 2018 by Triton Staff

The U.S. Coast Guard ended the voyage of a vessel in Miami on Monday for violating passenger laws and regulations.

The 64-foot M/Y Cary On, carrying 13 passengers, was boarded by a USCG law enforcement crew in the area of Baker’s Haulover Inlet, according to a USCG press release. The following violations of passenger-for-hire operation regulations were found:

  • Failure to have a valid Certificate of Inspection for vessels carrying more than six passengers.
  • Failure to have a credentialed mariner in control.
  • Failure to have a drug and alcohol program.
  • Failure to have a valid stability letter.

“You put your life at risk when you board a charter vessel with an operator who is not properly certified to take paying passengers,” stated Victor Rivera, Coast Guard Sector Miami command duty officer. “Charters that aren’t operated under the proper regulations can put passengers in danger and are subject to fines and potential civil penalties.”

Owners and operators of illegal charters face civil penalties of up to $41,456, according to the Coast Guard. The investigation is ongoing.

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