SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Coast Guard, federal and local law enforcement crews will be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operations in San Juan Harbor during the San Sebastián Festival from Jan. 15 to 18 in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Only a captain licensed by the Coast Guard can transport passengers for hire and must do so in a vessel that has the proper lifesaving equipment onboard. Vessel operators who carry passengers for hire without the proper license may face the termination of the voyage and possible fines that may range from $500 to a maximum of $117,608. For more information on illegal charters click on the video link to learn about what to ASK THE CAPTAIN.
“With crowd projections for the San Sebastian Street Festival estimated this year at over one million people, we anticipate a higher volume of recreational and commercial maritime activity in San Juan Harbor.” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Sector San Juan chief of response. “We are working in close communication and collaboration with city, state, and federal law enforcement authorities to do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for everyone. We caution the public seeking to gain access to the festival via the maritime route to be on the lookout for illegal passenger for hire vessel operators, and to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain and vessel credentials. Illegal passenger vessel operators represent a risk to maritime vessels and passenger safety, so it is of vital importance we raise awareness to avoid any incidents that could threaten people’s safety in the water and ruin their festival experience.”
People attending the festival are encouraged utilize the public ferry system and other organized means of public transportation announced by event organizers and the Municipality of San Juan. Click on the link for information on public transportation information to access Old San Juan during the festival.
The Coast Guard reminds boaters that owners and/or operators are responsible for the safe operation of their recreational vessels, and they must have all the required safety equipment and required documentation. Similarly, operating a recreational vessel under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or more is illegal and offenders face termination of their voyage, fines, and up to three years in prison. Additionally, operators of commercial vessels who operate with a level of or greater than .04 percent risk losing their captain’s license.
Agencies and marine units participating in this effort include:
- Coast Guard Station San Juan
- Coast Guard Sector San Juan Prevention and Response
- Customs and Border Protection Caribbean Air and Marine
- Puerto Rico Police Joint Forces of Rapid Action
- Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources
- San Juan Maritime Municipal Police
Coast Guard Sector San Juan watchstanders maintain a continuous watch and coordinate closely with partner agencies to ensure the safety and security of Puerto Rico’s ports and waterways. If you know of an operator carrying out an illegal passenger for hire operation you may contact the Coast Guard Sector San Juan Command Center at 787-289-2041.
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