The Coast Guard and other law enforcement authorities have cracked down on illegal boat charters in Miami lately. Indeed, they cited the captain of a 42-foot powerboat in Miami Beach and charged him with operating an illegal uninspected passenger vessel. They cited the captain of a 53-foot powerboat near the Miami River on the same charges.
And they busted the captain of a 15-foot floating Tiki Hut, also near the Miami River, for operating an uninspected passenger vessel, as well as operating under the influence of alcohol
The Coast Guard said that a Coast Guard law enforcement team from Miami Beach, a boarding team from Miami, and a marine investigator from Miami all boarded the Tiki Hut near the Miami River. The Tiki Hut had seven passengers and one credentialed captain on board at the time.
It said the captain was operating under the influence of alcohol and operating an illegal uninspected passenger vessel. The Coast Guard ended the voyage, and cited the captain for:
Failure to have a valid Certificate of Inspection.
Operating a vessel in a negligent manner that endangers life, limb, or property of a person.
Not having a Merchant Mariner Credential in his possession while operating a vessel with passengers for hire.
Operating under the influence. Read more:
https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/tiki-boat-captain-cited-for-bui-coast-guard-says/
