MIAMI – The U.S. Coast Guard and law enforcement partners shut down 16 “illegal” charter operations this past weekend in the Miami River, Biscayne Bay and near Lummus Park, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
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Several vessels, including Isabella, Second Wind, Dolce Vita I and a 26-foot recreational boat, were cited for violating active “Captain of the Port” orders and safety rules, officials said.
They said all 16 were ordered to return to port.
The Isabella and Second Wind had previously been warned, but authorities said they continued operating without fixing safety problems. Each was found in violation of the Passenger Vessel Safety Act, according to investigators.
According to Coast Guard officials, violations included missing life jackets, no licensed captain on board, operating without inspection and falsifying information to authorities. One boat had ignored COTP orders twice before, while another was cited just days earlier, they said.
“The Coast Guard, along with state and local law enforcement agencies will continue to actively pursue and enforce all applicable laws to ensure your time on the water is safe and enjoyable,” said Joshua Yanez, a Coast Guard investigating officer at Sector Miami. “Mariners in control of charter vessels should meet the regulatory safety standards and understand the consequences of disregarding safety violations.”
He said illegal charter operators could face up to $117,000 per day in fines, or even prison time for repeated violations.
He also said civil penalties for passenger vessel violations can add up to $69,000 or more.
The Coast Guard reminded the public: before boarding, ask to see the captain’s license and Coast Guard inspection certificate if the boat carries more than six passengers. If they can’t show it, don’t get on.
