BOATING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
ZERO TOLERANCE

Every boater needs to understand the risks of boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BUI). It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state.This law pertains to most boats, from sailboats to the largest cruisers.

Alcohol Effects: Alcohol affects judgment, vision,balance and coordination. It increases the likelihood of accidents. The effect of alcohol is even more hazardous on the water than on land. The motion, vibration, engine noise, sun,wind and spray of the boat accelerate a drinker’s impairment. The effect of alcohol can also be more dangerous to boaters.Boat operators are often less experienced and less confident on the water than on the highway.

Recreational boaters don’t have the benefit of experiencing daily boat operation. In fact,boaters average only 18 days (average of 6 hours per outing) on the water per year.

Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is just as much against the law as it is to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. It is illegal to operate any vessel or vehicle while intoxicated.