MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Coast Guard warns of potential illegal charters operating in the San Diego area

 

Media Availability

June 26, 2017 U.S. Coast Guard 11th District PA Detachment San Diego Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment San Diego Office: (619) 278-7025 After Hours: (619) 252-1304

Media Availability: Coast Guard warns of potential illegal charters
operating in the San Diego area

WHO:  Lt. Stefanie Hodgdon, an investigator for Coast Guard Sector San Diego's Preventions department.

WHEN: Wednesday and Thursday. Please contact Public Affairs Detachment San Diego at 619-278-7025 or 619-252-1304 to schedule a time.

WHERE: Coast Guard Sector San Diego at 2710 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

WHAT: Illegal charters have become a growing concern in the boating community in recent years. Members of Coast Guard Sector San Diego’s preventions department will be available to conduct interviews to explain what the public should look for when chartering a vessel.

SAN DIEGO — The Coast Guard is warning vessel operators and the general public Monday to be on the lookout for illegal charter boats operating in the San Diego area.

The Coast Guard has standards in place to ensure the safety of all persons at sea and illegal charters often do not meet the minimum standards set forth.

Any vessel carrying passengers for monetary gain, any form of economic benefit, or a donation as a condition of carriage requires a Coast Guard credentialed mariner and a current Certificate of Documentation or State Registration.

In addition, if carrying more than six passengers, the vessel must have a valid Certificate of Inspection issued by the Coast Guard. A valid Certificate of Inspection is proof that the Coast Guard has verified that the vessel meets specific minimum federal safety standards, outlines passenger and crew manning requirements and defines navigation routes allowed.

Vessels that do not meet these standards pose serious safety concerns to the public and environment.

 

-USCG-