NEW JERSEY – The US Coast Guard is reminding everyone that unlicensed vessel charters are illegal, and will be issuing violations to owners of vessels offering unlicensed charter services in New Jersey and Delaware.
According to a release from the US Coast Guard, hiring an unlicensed charter is dangerous because it may not have the proper emergency safety gear, may not have the proper navigation and communication gear, and may not have undergone the proper license exams and inspections.
“People paying to take an excursion on the water deserve safe vessels operated by properly licensed individuals,” stated Capt. Scott Anderson, Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay, in the release. “Vessel operators who skirt the regulations undercut legitimate licensed operators and put their passengers at risk. Paying customers can play a key role in keeping our waters safe by asking to see a license before departing, and they can ask to see the inspection sticker if vessels are carrying more than six passengers.”
While some may not realize it is against the law, the Coast Guard is reminding the public that using their boat to take members of the public out for hire is illegal.
If you are considering chartering or operating a vessel with passengers for hire, contact Sector Delaware Bay Marine Inspections at 215-908-9827 or DomesticVessels@uscg.mil to discuss how regulations apply to you.
