The Coast Guard cautioned, Monday, that Coast Guard and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operations in the San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastián Festival from Jan. 16 to 20.
Only a captain licensed by the Coast Guard can transport passengers for hire and must do so in a vessel that has the proper lifesaving equipment onboard. Vessel operators who carry passengers for hire without the proper license face the termination of the voyage and possible fines that may range from $1,000 to a maximum of $413,388.
“Our crews will be actively patrolling alongside local law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of people and vessels in San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastian Festival,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We encourage those attending the festival to utilize the public ferry system and the organized means of public transportation announced by the Municipality of San Juan. We caution the public of illegal passenger for hire vessel operators, and to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain credentials. Illegal passenger vessel operators represent a risk to maritime vessels and passenger safety, so it is of vital importance we raise awareness to avoid any incidents that could threaten people’s safety in the water and ruin their plans to enjoy the event.”
The Coast Guard reminds boaters that owners and/or operators are responsible for the safe operation of their recreational vessels, and they must have all the required safety equipment and required documentation. Similarly, operating a recreational vessel under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or more is illegal and offenders face termination of their voyage, fines, and up to three years in prison. Additionally, operators of commercial vessels who operate with a level of or greater than .04 percent risk losing their captain’s license.
Agencies and marine units participating in this effort include:
- Coast Guard Station San Juan
- Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier
- Coast Guard Sector San Juan Prevention and Response
- Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action
- Puerto Rico Department of Natural Resources Rangers
- San Juan Maritime Municipal Police
The original announcement can be found here.