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MIAMI, Fla. (WFLA) – Law enforcement officials from the Miami Coast Guard division closed 12 illegal charters in Biscayne Bay and the Miami River over the weekend.
It was one of the boats cited with a 70-foot motor yacht, an Indigo, a 52-foot cabin cruiser and a second wind. The Indigo owner reportedly acted as an illegal charter with 11 passengers for employment. The Coast Guard said the vessel was in violation of the captain of a port order issued in May 2023 to operate as a bare boat charter without selecting a crew member.
The Second Wind owners are also operating illegally with 13 passengers, violating similar orders since January 2023, according to the Coast Guard.
“Passing passenger vessel regulations are set standards for safety for crews, passengers and the public around them,” said said during Miami Sector Investigation Officer JG Jasmine Smith. Understand the consequences of ignoring safety standards and safety violations. There are state and federal regulations. ”
Coast Guard said those found in violation of the port order captain could face potential felony claims with up to $117,608 per day, and fined up to $500,000 in prison for up to six years It said it could lead to.
Other violations included failure to generate appropriate licenses, necessary safety equipment, and drug and alcohol testing programs.
The Coast Guard urged passengers to ensure that the captain had the proper qualifications and safety plans before booking the charter.
