SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — Coast Guard air and surface crews and shoreside personnel will be patrolling and working alongside federal and local law enforcement and emergency response partners during local spring break and Holy Week in Puerto Rico, March 28 through April 5, 2026.
During this period, the Coast Guard urges people to actively consider and plan for safety when being out on the water or visiting beaches around the island. Coast Guard and partner agency crews remain vigilant and ready to respond to maritime search and rescue and to intervene with illegal passenger vessel operators and boaters operating their vessels under the influence.
“Our crews are postured to respond to maritime search and rescue, and to work closely with the Puerto Rico Police and Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and other federal and local partners to enforce safe boating laws,” said Capt. Luis J. Rodriguez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander. “We want everyone to enjoy their time off and return safe to their families. To stay safe, it is crucial that people heed weather advisories and no swimming or rip current warning signs must be taken seriously. Many beaches in Puerto Rico are open water in remote areas where people swim at their own risk. Stay away from shoreside rock formations and jetties during increased sea states or high surf. When boating, wear a life jacket. Don’t become a victim.”
Anyone thinking of chartering a vessel, or paying to be transported on a vessel, should ask to see the captain’s Coast Guard license and the vessel’s certificate of inspection for their safety. 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 their 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
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ASK THE CAPTAIN.
“We caution people to not contract any operator who refuses or fails to present their captain and vessel credentials,” said Cmdr. Matthew Romano, Coast Guard Sector San Juan chief of response. “Illegal passenger vessel operators represent a risk to maritime vessels and passenger safety that could threaten people’s safety in the water and ruin their day.”
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.
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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