CG stops 8 illegally operating charters

DESTIN, Fla. -- The Coast Guard terminated the voyages of eight charter vessels operating illegally near Destin, Fla., during boardings from July 17-22, and for operating outside the regulations set forth by the Vessel Passenger Safety Act. “Every charter vessel is required to meet safety standards set by the Coast Guard,” said Ens. Trevor Vallet of CG Sector Mobile, Ala. “We enforce these standards with local agency partners to ensure charter passengers have safe options to enjoy our nation’s waterways.” The following violations were noted: Invalid Certificate of Inspection; invalid credentialed mariner in control while operating a small passenger vessel; failure to have a valid stability letter; and failure to be enrolled in a drug consortium. One of the vessel operators was found to be boating under the influence and was arrested. Law enforcement personnel from CG Sector Mobile, Coast Guard Station Destin, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office participated. Owners and operators of illegal charter vessels can face maximum civil penalties of more than $50,000 for illegal passenger-for-hire operations. (Source: Coast Guard 07/26/19)