FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WFLA) — The U.S. Coast Guard closed nine illegal charters in Fort Lauderdale waterways over the weekend.
The stopped ship included floating tiki hats, speedboats and several large boats to carry multiple guests. Many of the stops took place near the New River Triangle.
Haynes Cityman says he was driving 105 mph on an SR-417 to lead his friend to work: Report
Authorities said all nine ships were cited for multiple safety violations.
Some passengers lacked sufficient personal flotation equipment, while others lacked valid testing certificates, according to the Coast Guard.
The complete list of violations issued consisted of:
46 Violation of CFR 16.201 – Chemical Testing Program (Drug and Alcohol Program) 46 Violation of CFR 25.25-5 – 46 Unable to secure a Type I Personal Float Device for All Persons, all Persons, while operating as an untested passenger ship violation of CFR 67.7. 46 CFR 15.401(a) Documentation Certificate Violation – Failed to adopt a properly qualified Mariner Violation of CFR 515(c) – 46 CFR 15.605 operation fails while driving while operating as a small passenger ship violation of CFR 15.605. 176.100(a) – Failure of valid inspection certificate violation 46 CFR 176.100(b) – Not complying with inspection certificate violation 46 CFR 180.71 – If you have a Type I Personal Footeration Device for All Persons and you are not on board while operating as a violation of 19 USC 70, you will be violated to federal law enforcement officials.
The Coast Guard said anyone paying for a passenger ship trip should make sure the captain is qualified as a merchant Mariner. Large charter boats with six or more passengers require a Coast Guard inspection certificate.
“It is a common responsibility to ensure the safety of our maritime community,” said Joshua Yanez, Chief Warrant Officer. “People paying for travel on passenger ships should always ensure that the captain can generate the appropriate qualifications before embarking on a voyage. Similarly, charter vessel captains must adhere to all regulatory standards to maintain the highest level of safety for passengers, crews and the broader maritime community.”
Authorities say anyone who runs an illegal charter could face a penalty of more than $69,000.
