Coast Guard Shuts Down Illegal Charter Boat Near Anna Maria Island
The U.S. Coast Guard halted an illegal charter operation Thursday off the coast of Anna Maria Island, bringing nine passengers and a 24-foot vessel back to shore at Coquina North Boat Ramp.
According to officials, the vessel was operating as a small passenger charter without the necessary certifications or safety equipment. The boat’s owner received two violations: one for lacking a valid Certificate of Inspection and another for not having enough life jackets for those on board.
The Coast Guard emphasized that passengers should verify the licensing of charter operators before boarding, encouraging the public to ask for the Merchant Mariner Credential to confirm the captain is properly licensed.
Illegal charter operations can carry serious consequences. The Coast Guard reports that civil penalties can exceed $60,000 for unauthorized passenger-for-hire activities. Anyone witnessing such violations is urged to report them to Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg at 727-502-8720.
