Tag Archives: overcrowded charter boat

UPDATE

Updated:  November 18, 2019.  Questions arose after the release of this blog post.

QUESTION 1

First, someone asked if children are considered *passengers.”
Answer:  Yes, they are considered passengers. Many charteryachts will create special pricing for babies and toddlers.  We will work with the owner, management company, or agent to get the best possible rate for you.  Remember, babies and toddlers are legally considered members of the passenger manifest.  They DO count toward your guest count.

QUESTION 2

Second, someone asked if the crew members are part of the “12 guest count.”
Answer:  Not usually.  Yes, there are some yachts whose crewmembers are a part of the guest count (for example, a captain).  For the most part, however, the crew number does NOT factor into the guest count.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT LEGALITY AND YACHT CHARTER?

If you have any other questions, please contact us, and we will answer them right away.  Contact us here at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/

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SO THIS HAPPENED…

On August 19, US Coast Guard officers in Miami board 147 foot M/Y Golden Touch II.   They terminat the luxury yacht day charter for multiple safety violations. The owner and captain of the yacht face civil penalties. The penalities are up to $41,456 for the violations.

AS THE COAST GUARD VISITS THE YACHT

Upon boarding, the officers count 47 passengers.  They cite the captain for carrying more paying passengers than the vessel is certified to have onboard, which is 12.  Other violations includ the lack of a valid certificate of inspection.  Others include failure to have a drug and alcohol program for the crew,  as well as the lack of a valid stability letter.

THE COAST GUARD REPORTS

“Tragically, people have lost their lives on illegal charters, as was seen in the case of the vessel Jaguar in the Tampa Bay area and in the case of the Miami Vice yacht in Miami,” said USCG Capt. Ladonn Allen, of the 7th District prevention department. “The unsafe atmospheres that these types of companies and unlicensed captains, who knowingly engage in illegal activity, create on their boats show a complete disregard for passenger safety and have been responsible for multiple deaths in Florida alone.  We cannot stress enough to anyone looking to charter a boat to verify the captain’s license and safety of the vessel.”

164ft Yacht Amarula Sun – Loaded with Watertoys for Active Travelers

THEN HOW MANY GUESTS IS LEGAL?

So how many passengers can a yacht legally carry?  The answer can vary and depends upon many variables. For example, the type of certification the yacht holds and the type of license the captain possesses.

WHAT IS THE MAIN RULE?

As a general rule, most yachts for hire are restricted to 12 passengers, and require special certification to transport more than 12 guests.  

HOW CAN I PROTECT MYSELF WHEN CHARTERING A YACHT?

First, make sure the boat you hire is operating legally.  Retain the services of a professional yacht charter broker.   A charter professional is numerous things.  For instance, someone who knows the rules, has experience, and can determine which yacht and crew is right for you.

WHAT IF I KNOW  THE CAPTAIN, PERSONALLY?

We realize it can be tempting to “go direct” and cut out the charter broker. The broker is essentially a middle-man/woman. He/she works for you and earns a commission for arranging your yacht charter, like Hertz or Avis, in renting a car.

WHAT PROBLEMS COULD I HAVE GOING DIRECT?

The possible savings of going direct are not what you might expect.  Many yacht owners set a rate that does not change.  The rate is firm, even if a yacht charter broker is involved.  Most yacht charters pay commissions to the brokers from the rate paid on the boat.  The charter fee is NOT “marked up” by ethical and reputable brokers, unlike going direct. Our company also rewards referrals for yacht charters presented to us.

HOW TO BOOK A YACHT CHARTER TODAY?

In conclusion, protect yourself and go with professionals who know and obey the rules of chartering. Your safety, satisfaction, and memorable experience are of utmost importance to us.  To book your private luxury yacht charter vacation now, contact us today via whatsApp or text to 305-720-7245.

This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News Frequently Asked Questions Educational and tagged US Coast Guard, overcrowded charter boat, why use a yacht charter broker, yacht charter miami, Miami yacht charter, illegal yacht charter, motoryacht Golden Touch II, safety violations