MIAMI — Coast Guard Sector Miami law enforcement officers, along with federal, state and local partners, terminated five illegal charter voyages over the weekend off Rickenbacker Causeway and Lummus Park, authorities confirmed.
Investgators said one boat, the EPIC II, was found in violation of an “active federal Captain of the Port order” issued on Oct. 23, 2025.
They said all five vessels were boarded and cited for safety and documentation violations, including lack of Coast Guard certification, improperly endorsed documentation, and failure to employ credentialed mariners.
“Illegal charter operations pose a significant risk to passengers, crews, and the broader maritime community,” said Lt. Jasmine Smith, a Coast Guard Sector Miami investigating officer. “Our crews and law enforcement partners remain steadfast in enforcing federal maritime regulations, while holding vessel owners accountable to ensure the safety of the boating public in South Florida.”
Violations of a Captain of the Port order can carry civil penalties up to $117,608 per day and, if willful, can result in a class D felony punishable by up to six years in prison and fines up to $250,000 for individuals or $500,000 for organizations, according to Coast Guard officials.
The Coast Guard urges passengers to verify captains have a safety plan and a Merchant Mariner Credential and, for vessels carrying more than six passengers, a Coast Guard-issued Certificate of Inspection.
Anyone with information about illegal charter operations is encouraged to contact the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
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