According to a recent publication by the U.S. Coast Guard, authorities in Miami have taken decisive action against illegal charter operations, halting 13 unauthorized trips over the weekend across Biscayne Bay and the Miami River.
During this operation, two vessels were identified as violating active Captain of the Port (COTP) Orders. The Coast Guard swiftly terminated all 13 trips and issued citations for multiple infractions.
On Saturday, officers inspected a cabin cruiser named Second Wind and found it operating despite an existing COTP Order from January 20, 2023. This vessel had previously been cited for similar violations on February 22 and May 16.
The following day, officials boarded The Round, a sizable motor yacht measuring 98 feet. This vessel was also found to be non-compliant with an active COTP Order issued just days prior on October 25, having been flagged for violations earlier on March 23.
The inspections revealed numerous breaches of maritime regulations including operating under an active COTP Order without proper authorization, invalid state registration documents, lack of a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI), and failure to provide Type I life jackets for all passengers aboard.
Additional infractions included not maintaining a drug and alcohol testing program for crew members and failing to ensure that qualified mariners were at the helm. Some operators lacked necessary documentation for coastwise trade activities while one case involved obstructing revenue officers during inspections.
Citing insights shared by Lt Michelle Haksteen from the Coast Guard’s investigative team, it is clear that collaboration with local agencies will continue as they enforce maritime laws throughout South Florida’s waterways. She emphasized that ensuring passenger safety is paramount while reminding charter operators about adhering to safety regulations to prevent accidents or legal repercussions.
The consequences of ignoring COTP Orders can be severe; civil fines may reach up to $117,608 per day under federal law (46 U.S.C. §70036). Willful violations could escalate into class D felonies resulting in prison sentences up to six years or hefty fines reaching $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for organizations involved in such activities.
Illegal charter operators face significant financial penalties exceeding $69,000 which include fines like $5,996 for failing to present a COI when carrying more than six passengers or up to $9,624 if not enrolled in required drug testing programs.
The Coast Guard urges anyone considering hiring a charter service to verify that their captain possesses a valid Merchant Mariner Credential along with an established safety plan before embarking on their journey. For larger vessels accommodating more than six individuals or those requiring inspection certificates should always request proof of compliance with Uninspected Passenger Vessel regulations before boarding any craft.
