Coast Guard Shuts Down Illegal Charter Boat near Anna Maria Island Carrying 11 Passengers
A routine maritime safety inspection off Florida’s Gulf Coast turned into a major enforcement action after the U.S. Coast Guard intercepted an illegal charter vessel operating near Anna Maria Island with 11 passengers onboard.
According to Coast Guard officials, a Station Cortez law enforcement crew stopped the 42-foot vessel “She’s Always Right” on Thursday near Bradenton Beach Marina after determining the boat was operating as an unauthorized bareboat charter carrying paying passengers.
Following an onboard investigation, officers concluded the vessel was functioning as an illegal small passenger vessel in violation of federal maritime safety regulations. The charter voyage was immediately terminated, and the vessel, along with its passengers, was escorted back to Bradenton Beach Marina.
Authorities reported multiple serious safety and compliance violations during the boarding. The vessel allegedly failed to carry a valid Certificate of Inspection, lacked a properly credentialed mariner at the helm, did not maintain a required drug and alcohol compliance program, and also failed to possess a valid Certificate of Documentation.
The U.S. Coast Guard warned that illegal charter operators can face civil penalties exceeding $69,000, highlighting growing concerns over unauthorized passenger vessels operating in Florida’s busy tourism and recreational boating sector.
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“Licensed mariners, inspected vessels, and compliant operators exist because safety standards save lives,” said Capt. Corrie Sergent, commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg.
Officials are urging travelers and tourists booking private boat charters to verify that captains hold proper Coast Guard credentials and that vessels meet federally required safety standards before departing.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
