Miami Luxury Yacht & Boat Charter Regulations You Need to Know

Updated: March 19, 2024

Private cruises and yachts are one of the fastest-growing leisure categories in the world. But charter regulations can be both random and strict. Keep your next yacht excursion stress-free by doing thorough research on the rules of the sea. So, here’s everything you need to know about yacht charter regulations.

According to The Miami Herald, the Coast Guard is cracking down on boating regulations. “It can be very dangerous to take part in a charter that doesn’t meet regulations, and educating yourself on what to look for to determine whether or not the operation is legitimate can save your life,” Petty Officer 1st Class Paula Verden of Miami’s Coast Guard.

This blog post will cover some of the Miami boating laws that those looking to rent a private charter should be aware of; including restrictions on the number of people allowed on a boat at any time. And, what legal and illegal activities you should avoid while riding.

Number Of Passengers

The US Coast Guard regulations require that all privately owned charter yachts in the United States are limited to a maximum of 13 passengers, plus crew. This regulation is named in the Passenger Vessel Safety Act of 1993: “No yacht for charter should accept more than 13 passengers onboard, no matter the size of the vessel or the age of the passenger.”

Licensed Captain & Crew

You may not think it’s a big deal to hit the water without a licensed captain and crew, but this costly mistake can leave yacht owners and operators with over $40,000 in fines.

Coast Guard Officer Verden adds, “It can be very dangerous to take part in a charter that doesn’t meet regulations, and educating yourself on what to look for to determine whether or not the operation is legitimate can save your life,”

According to Officer Verden, even though many overlook this safety measure, “It’s important that people looking to charter a boat verify the captain’s license and safety of the vessel.”

Onboard Restrictions

Most luxury charters have simple restrictions designed to keep the passengers and crew safe and happy. Aside from basic rules of respect and dignity for your fellow passengers, be mindful of the efforts of the captain and crew. Learn the rules of the ride and follow them no matter what.

Illegal Substances & Activities

Carrying illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia or contraband on your charter is a bad idea for a number of reasons. Even if you have legal or medicinal marijuana, you may find yourself in federal or international waters where state law does not apply.

To avoid getting in more trouble than you bargained for, stick to drinks. And, stick to legal party favors while you’re on the water and under Florida boating laws. But don’t get too carried away with anything. Your captain will have the authority to radio the Coast Guard and report you.

Safety Briefing

When you and your guests first get onboard your yacht rental, the captain will introduce his crew and give a safety briefing on lifejackets, liferafts, yacht floor plans, and other specific safety information needed for the particular yacht and surrounding area.

Pay close attention to this safety briefing, as each yacht charter will have unique safety needs you should be aware of.

Ready To Hit The Water?

The Advantaged offers a vast selection of yachts to choose from, including everything from sailing yachts to megayachts. We offer all from half-day to full-week charters and provide only the best for your group. Once you have selected your destination and yacht, we will supply all onboard amenities and countless water activities. We guarantee an experience you will never forget.

And, now that you know everything about yacht charter regulations, you know what the next step is. Try and learn more about the local area of Miami!

Book your yacht rental Miami tickets and then head over to www.theadvantaged.com to reserve your yacht today.