September 22, 2025

Can You Drink Alcohol on a Yacht in Miami?

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Can You Drink Alcohol on a Yacht in Miami?

Can You Drink Alcohol on a Yacht in Miami?

Fernando Yemail

Founder & Editor — Feeling Yachty

Updated: 2025

Read time: 10 min

Short answer: yes, passengers usually can. Long answer: it’s legal but regulated, and the operator can’t be impaired. Here’s how Florida BUI laws, U.S. Coast Guard rules, Miami marina policies, and charter contracts fit together—plus practical steps to host a safe, compliant yacht party in Biscayne Bay or offshore.

Quick Answer / Executive Summary

Short legal bottom line

Yes—drinking alcohol on a private or charter yacht in Miami is commonly permitted, but it’s regulated. Florida’s primary constraint is Boating Under the Influence (BUI) under Florida Statute §327.35. Passengers may drink; the operator must not be impaired. Open containers are generally allowed on private vessels, yet marinas, charter companies, and local ordinances impose additional limits (glass, noise, dock conduct).

Practical rules for private boats vs. charter yachts

Private boat: Guests can drink. The person at the helm cannot be impaired. Owner policies, insurance exclusions, and marina rules can further restrict behavior.
Charter yacht: Most allow alcohol. Captains and crew remain sober. Crewed charters may include bar packages or corkage; bareboat charters often carry stricter deposits and insurance conditions when alcohol is aboard.

Key agencies and enforcement you need to know

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Primary BUI enforcement in state waters.
U.S. Coast Guard (USCG): Federal safety and law enforcement on navigable waters (boarding, safety checks).
Local police & marina/port authorities: City of Miami, Miami Beach PD, PortMiami security—noise, public intoxication, dockside conduct.

Definitions & Legal Concepts

What counts as “drinking alcohol on a yacht” (open container vs. possession vs. service)

Open container means a beverage with a broken seal or removed cap. On private vessels, open containers are generally lawful, but public spaces (docks, parks, beaches) and marinas can restrict them. Possession is having alcohol aboard; service means supplying/selling alcohol to guests—commercial service can trigger liquor licensing and liability.

Operator vs. passenger vs. crew — who the law targets

Operator: Whoever is in control of navigation. BUI standards and criminal penalties apply even if the boat is drifting or loosely anchored.
Passenger: May drink; can still be cited for disorderly intoxication or violating marina rules.
Crew: Captains and crew are typically subject to employer and charter policies requiring sobriety and safety enforcement.

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) — definition and how it differs from DUI

BUI prohibits operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the extent normal faculties are impaired. Florida uses impairment plus a per se benchmark of 0.08% BAC as persuasive evidence. Unlike roadway DUI, marine enforcement emphasizes unsafe operation, crash risk, and safety gear compliance.

“Underway” vs. “anchored” vs. “moored” — operational status explained

Underway: Not made fast to shore or anchor. BUI clearly applies.
Anchored/moored: If you can quickly get underway—or you’re responsible for navigation—you can still be deemed the “operator in charge.” Impairment + control can support BUI.

Jurisdiction: state waters, territorial sea, international waters — what may apply

State waters (Florida): Generally out to 3 nautical miles on the Atlantic side—FWC jurisdiction and Florida statutes apply in Miami.
Territorial sea (federal): Out to 12 nm—USCG authority increases; federal rules apply alongside state laws where applicable.
International waters (beyond 12 nm): U.S.-flagged vessels remain subject to U.S. federal law; foreign port laws apply upon entry.

Laws, Regulations & Enforcement in Miami and Florida

Florida boating laws and BUI enforcement (roles of FWC)

FWC officers patrol Biscayne Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW), and coastal waters. They conduct boating safety checks, sobriety assessments, and investigate accidents. Under §327.35, they can arrest operators for BUI, order chemical testing, and detain vessels for safety violations.

Federal rules and U.S. Coast Guard jurisdiction on navigable waters

USCG enforces life jacket (PFD) requirements, navigation rules (COLREGS/INLAND), flares, fire extinguishers, and proper documentation. They may board without cause on U.S. waters for safety inspections and investigate suspected federal violations, including intoxication and negligent operation.

Local Miami & Miami Beach ordinances (marina policies, noise, open-container in public spaces)

City ordinances restrict open containers in many public spaces and regulate noise. Marinas often limit glassware, amplified music, dockside parties, and late-night activity. Complaints can bring Miami Police or Miami Beach PD to your slip.

How state, county and city rules interact with charter company policies

Charter agreements layer additional rules—max headcount, BYO limits, corkage, and captain authority to terminate a voyage. Contract terms don’t override laws: violating a statute can void insurance and lead to citations or arrest regardless of what your contract says.

Private Yacht vs. Charter Yacht (Key Differences)

Rules for private vessel owners (what you can/can’t do)

Owners can bring and serve alcohol to adult guests, but must ensure a sober operator, adhere to marina rules, and manage risk (glass bans, trash, quiet hours). You’re responsible for guest conduct and civil liability if negligence leads to injury or damage.

Rules for captained charters (bareboat vs. crewed charters)

Bareboat/Demise: Renter assumes the role and risk of owner/operator. Expect higher deposits, proof of competency, and stricter alcohol clauses.
Crewed: A licensed captain is in command and remains sober. Many operators offer curated bar service; some restrict spirits to reduce over-intoxication risk.

Alcohol policies for rental platforms and yacht companies (BYO vs. supplied bar)

Platforms differ: some allow BYO with corkage, others require you to purchase packages or use a licensed bartender. Unlicensed “sale” of alcohol is usually prohibited.

Liability, waivers and who is responsible (owner, captain, charter company)

Liability often follows control: the operator and owner face exposure for negligent operation. Waivers help but rarely shield gross negligence or illegal acts. Charter companies try to allocate risk via contract but cannot override statutes.

Age, Minors & Underage Drinking

Federal and Florida rules about minors and alcohol on boats

There’s no federal carve-out for boats. Florida law (§562.11) prohibits furnishing alcohol to anyone under 21, including on private vessels. Expect strict enforcement around popular sandbars and marina docks.

Identification and enforcement practices

Captains and bartenders should check IDs. Officers may verify ages during boardings or after calls from marinas. A single underage service can jeopardize the entire charter.

Penalties for supplying alcohol to minors on a vessel

Penalties can include misdemeanor charges, fines, and civil liability if harm occurs. Charters may be terminated on the spot with deposits forfeited.

Safety, BUI Enforcement & Penalties

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) considerations and impairment standards for operators

Florida focuses on impairment, but 0.08% BAC is strong evidence of BUI. Lower BACs combined with unsafe behavior can still lead to arrest. Heat, sun, and motion can magnify impairment on the water.

Typical penalties for BUI: fines, jail, license actions, vessel seizure

Penalties escalate with prior offenses and injury outcomes: fines, possible jail, probation, community service, mandatory education, and in serious cases, vessel impoundment and felony charges.

Field sobriety tests and chemical testing on the water

FWC and USCG use seated standardized field sobriety tests adapted for boats, plus breath or blood tests. Refusal may carry legal and administrative consequences.

Insurance and civil liability consequences after an incident

Insurers commonly exclude alcohol-related negligence by operators. Post-incident, expect heightened scrutiny, potential claim denial, and personal exposure for injuries and property damage.

Practical Scenarios & How-to Processes

How to legally host a drinking party on a private Miami yacht (step-by-step)

Confirm marina rules (glass, noise, guest caps).
Designate a sober operator or hire a licensed captain.
Stock PFDs, flares, VHF radio, and first-aid; file a float plan.
Provide food and water; consider lower-proof options.
Check insurance for alcohol exclusions and notify your broker if needed.
Brief guests on no swimming while impaired and safe movement on deck.

How to charter a yacht and include alcohol service (booking, contracts, corkage)

Ask upfront about BYO, corkage, bar packages, and crew rules.
Get policies in writing; confirm ID checks and cut-off discretion for intoxicated guests.
Understand deposits, cleaning fees, and damage protocols.

Hiring a bartender or crew to serve alcohol — permits and best practices

For commercial events, hire licensed caterers/bartenders with liquor liability coverage. Use written contracts, verify insurance certificates, enforce ID checks, and train crew in responsible service.

What to do if the captain is intoxicated — emergency steps and alternatives

Remove the impaired person from the helm; install a sober, qualified operator.
Contact FWC/USCG or a nearby marina on VHF Ch. 16 if no sober operator is available.
Document the incident; arrange tow assistance if needed; do not depart until a sober captain is in command.

Comparisons & Edge Cases

Miami vs. other Florida coastal cities — enforcement and marina culture

Miami and Miami Beach see robust enforcement due to heavy traffic, sandbar congregations, and nightlife. Smaller towns may feel calmer but still enforce BUI and safety rules.

Anchored in Biscayne Bay vs. cruising offshore — when rules are stricter

Anchored parties in Biscayne Bay often trigger local noise and wake concerns. Offshore cruising invites USCG safety scrutiny—carry required gear and mind weather and sea state.

U.S. waters vs. Bahamas/Caribbean — transporting and consuming alcohol across borders

You can carry personal alcohol, but expect customs declarations and duties. Each country sets its own consumption laws, public drinking rules, and event permit requirements.

Private party vs. commercial event (weddings, corporate events) — permit and licensing differences

Private gatherings typically don’t need permits. Commercial events may require liquor licenses/permits, special event authorization, and proof of general and liquor liability insurance. Coordinate with your marina and the City of Miami early. For weddings, consider dedicated wedding yacht rentals.

Insurance, Liability & Damage Claims

How alcohol consumption affects vessel insurance coverage

Policies frequently exclude losses caused by an intoxicated operator or illegal activity. Some underwriters want advance notice of events involving alcohol.

Liability waivers: what they cover and what they don’t

Well-drafted waivers can reduce ordinary negligence claims but won’t cover gross negligence, intentional misconduct, or statutory violations (e.g., service to minors).

Third-party liability and dram shop–style exposure on charters

If you sell or serve alcohol commercially, you may face dram shop–like exposure for over-service. Obtain dedicated liquor liability coverage and train staff.

Marinas, Ports & Docking Rules

Marina policies on alcohol, trash, glass, and smoking

Common rules: no glass on docks, pack out trash, no open flames, smoking restrictions. Review your slip agreement—some marinas prohibit dockside parties entirely. Check Miami-Dade’s facilities and policies at County marinas.

Noise and time restrictions in Miami marinas and waterfront neighborhoods

Expect quiet hours and specific decibel limits. Violations can lead to fines or termination of your slip agreement.

Event permitting for dockside parties and live entertainment

Amplified sound and commercial activity may require city permits and proof of insurance. Coordinate with marina management and city officials well in advance.

Best Practices & Safety Checklist for Drinking on a Yacht

Pre-departure checklist (captain sober, life jackets, float plan, limits)

Sober, qualified operator designated
PFDs for all passengers, throwable device ready
VHF radio, GPS, flares, first-aid, fire extinguishers checked
Float plan filed; weather and sea-state reviewed
Passenger headcount within capacity; glass minimized

Safe-serving tips (hydration, food, alcohol pacing, designated operator)

Serve water and food continuously; favor lower-ABV drinks
Limit rounds; cut off anyone showing imbalance or confusion
Keep the swim ladder up when guests are impaired; use a kill switch lanyard

Emergency preparedness (communication, nearby marinas, tow services)

Program TowBoatUS/Sea Tow and local marina numbers
Keep a charged phone and backup power; monitor VHF Ch. 16
Know the nearest safe harbor in Biscayne Bay and offshore

For more detailed safety steps before you depart, see our Yacht Safety Protocols.

Planning Events & Commercial Service

Permits, licenses and food/beverage service requirements for commercial events

For weddings or corporate charters, vendors may need Florida DBPR alcohol licenses for off-premise service and health approvals for catering. The vessel operator may require a special event permit and higher insurance limits.

Staffing: licensed bartenders, TABC equivalents and ID checks

Use trained, certified bartenders (responsible vendor training) who know ID verification and refusal protocols. Put ID checks and cut-off rights in your contract and guest briefings.

Pricing, corkage and alcohol packages — what to expect

Expect corkage fees for BYO, tiered bar packages, automatic gratuities, and deposits connected to damage and extra cleaning. Clarify refund and termination triggers tied to intoxication.

Resources & Contacts

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) — boating enforcement

myfwc.com/boating/regulations — safety, education, and enforcement contacts.

U.S. Coast Guard — safety and navigation assistance

uscg.mil — safety information and contacts. Hail VHF Channel 16 for emergencies.

Miami-Dade and Miami Beach police and marina manager contacts

Save non-emergency numbers from city websites and your marina office. Post them near the helm before departure.

Where to book a charter and plan bar service

Explore options for Miami yacht rentals and dedicated bar service on board.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — (15 common questions)

1. Is it legal to drink alcohol on a private yacht in Miami?

Yes, for passengers. The operator must remain sober; marinas may restrict glass and dockside open containers.

2. Can the captain drink alcohol while the boat is underway?

No. Drinking while operating risks BUI arrest and civil liability.

3. What is the legal BAC limit for operating a boat in Florida?

Impairment is the standard; 0.08% BAC is persuasive evidence of impairment.

4. Are open containers allowed on a vessel in Miami?

Generally yes on private boats. Public spaces and marinas can restrict them dockside.

5. Can minors drink alcohol on a yacht if supervised by parents?

No. Florida prohibits furnishing alcohol to anyone under 21.

6. If I charter a yacht, can I bring my own alcohol?

Often yes, subject to corkage and the operator’s written policy.

7. Do charter companies provide bartenders and alcohol service?

Many do; commercial service may require licenses and liquor liability insurance.

8. What happens if someone is arrested for BUI on a yacht?

They face criminal charges, fines, possible jail, and insurance fallout.

9. Will my boat insurance cover incidents caused by intoxicated guests?

Often excluded—review your policy and ask about endorsements.

10. Are there different rules when the yacht is anchored vs. cruising?

Being anchored doesn’t automatically exempt you; control + impairment can still equal BUI.

11. Can I legally drink in Miami waters that are technically federal?

Yes for passengers; USCG and Florida rules still apply to U.S.-flagged vessels.

12. What permits do I need for a wedding or commercial event with alcohol on a yacht?

Likely liquor service licensing, event permits, and proof of insurance. Confirm with the marina and city. For weddings, see wedding yacht rentals.

13. Can crew members serve alcohol without a license?

For private hospitality, usually yes; for sales/service, a licensed provider may be required.

14. What are common marina restrictions related to alcohol and parties?

No glass, quiet hours, limits on amplified music, and guest caps on docks.

15. How do I minimize legal risk when hosting an alcohol-focused event on a yacht?

Hire a sober captain, use licensed bartenders, verify IDs, obtain liquor liability insurance, and follow marina/charter policies.

Appendix — Sample Checklists, Contract Clauses & Quick Templates

Sample captain-customer alcohol clause to request when chartering

“Captain and crew shall remain sober and in command at all times. Guests may bring alcohol subject to a corkage fee of $X. The captain reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated guests and to terminate the charter for safety concerns; deposits refunded per cancellation terms.”

Quick emergency action checklist for intoxication incidents

Remove person from helm.
Assign sober monitor and document behavior.
Call nearest marina or USCG on VHF Ch. 16.
Arrange transport to shore if medical attention is needed.
Preserve evidence (photos, witness names) and notify your insurer.

Closing Notes & Next Steps

When to consult an attorney or insurance professional

Consult a marine attorney for incidents, underage service issues, or complex commercial events. Speak with an insurance broker before hosting large or paid bar service to confirm liquor liability and BUI-related exclusions.

Can You Drink Alcohol on a Yacht in Miami?

Fernando Yemail

Founder & Editor — Feeling Yachty

Updated: 2025

Read time: 10 min

Quick Answer / Executive Summary

Short legal bottom line

Practical rules for private boats vs. charter yachts

Private boat: Guests can drink. The person at the helm cannot be impaired. Owner policies, insurance exclusions, and marina rules can further restrict behavior.
Charter yacht: Most allow alcohol. Captains and crew remain sober. Crewed charters may include bar packages or corkage; bareboat charters often carry stricter deposits and insurance conditions when alcohol is aboard.

Key agencies and enforcement you need to know

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Primary BUI enforcement in state waters.
U.S. Coast Guard (USCG): Federal safety and law enforcement on navigable waters (boarding, safety checks).
Local police & marina/port authorities: City of Miami, Miami Beach PD, PortMiami security—noise, public intoxication, dockside conduct.

Definitions & Legal Concepts

What counts as “drinking alcohol on a yacht” (open container vs. possession vs. service)

Operator vs. passenger vs. crew — who the law targets

Operator: Whoever is in control of navigation. BUI standards and criminal penalties apply even if the boat is drifting or loosely anchored.
Passenger: May drink; can still be cited for disorderly intoxication or violating marina rules.
Crew: Captains and crew are typically subject to employer and charter policies requiring sobriety and safety enforcement.

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) — definition and how it differs from DUI

“Underway” vs. “anchored” vs. “moored” — operational status explained

Underway: Not made fast to shore or anchor. BUI clearly applies.
Anchored/moored: If you can quickly get underway—or you’re responsible for navigation—you can still be deemed the “operator in charge.” Impairment + control can support BUI.

Jurisdiction: state waters, territorial sea, international waters — what may apply

State waters (Florida): Generally out to 3 nautical miles on the Atlantic side—FWC jurisdiction and Florida statutes apply in Miami.
Territorial sea (federal): Out to 12 nm—USCG authority increases; federal rules apply alongside state laws where applicable.
International waters (beyond 12 nm): U.S.-flagged vessels remain subject to U.S. federal law; foreign port laws apply upon entry.

Laws, Regulations & Enforcement in Miami and Florida

Florida boating laws and BUI enforcement (roles of FWC)

Federal rules and U.S. Coast Guard jurisdiction on navigable waters

Local Miami & Miami Beach ordinances (marina policies, noise, open-container in public spaces)

How state, county and city rules interact with charter company policies

Private Yacht vs. Charter Yacht (Key Differences)

Rules for private vessel owners (what you can/can’t do)

Rules for captained charters (bareboat vs. crewed charters)

Bareboat/Demise: Renter assumes the role and risk of owner/operator. Expect higher deposits, proof of competency, and stricter alcohol clauses.
Crewed: A licensed captain is in command and remains sober. Many operators offer curated bar service; some restrict spirits to reduce over-intoxication risk.

Alcohol policies for rental platforms and yacht companies (BYO vs. supplied bar)

Platforms differ: some allow BYO with corkage, others require you to purchase packages or use a licensed bartender. Unlicensed “sale” of alcohol is usually prohibited.

Liability, waivers and who is responsible (owner, captain, charter company)

Age, Minors & Underage Drinking

Federal and Florida rules about minors and alcohol on boats

Identification and enforcement practices

Captains and bartenders should check IDs. Officers may verify ages during boardings or after calls from marinas. A single underage service can jeopardize the entire charter.

Penalties for supplying alcohol to minors on a vessel

Penalties can include misdemeanor charges, fines, and civil liability if harm occurs. Charters may be terminated on the spot with deposits forfeited.

Safety, BUI Enforcement & Penalties

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) considerations and impairment standards for operators

Typical penalties for BUI: fines, jail, license actions, vessel seizure

Penalties escalate with prior offenses and injury outcomes: fines, possible jail, probation, community service, mandatory education, and in serious cases, vessel impoundment and felony charges.

Field sobriety tests and chemical testing on the water

FWC and USCG use seated standardized field sobriety tests adapted for boats, plus breath or blood tests. Refusal may carry legal and administrative consequences.

Insurance and civil liability consequences after an incident

Insurers commonly exclude alcohol-related negligence by operators. Post-incident, expect heightened scrutiny, potential claim denial, and personal exposure for injuries and property damage.

Practical Scenarios & How-to Processes

How to legally host a drinking party on a private Miami yacht (step-by-step)

Confirm marina rules (glass, noise, guest caps).
Designate a sober operator or hire a licensed captain.
Stock PFDs, flares, VHF radio, and first-aid; file a float plan.
Provide food and water; consider lower-proof options.
Check insurance for alcohol exclusions and notify your broker if needed.
Brief guests on no swimming while impaired and safe movement on deck.

How to charter a yacht and include alcohol service (booking, contracts, corkage)

Ask upfront about BYO, corkage, bar packages, and crew rules.
Get policies in writing; confirm ID checks and cut-off discretion for intoxicated guests.
Understand deposits, cleaning fees, and damage protocols.

Hiring a bartender or crew to serve alcohol — permits and best practices

What to do if the captain is intoxicated — emergency steps and alternatives

Remove the impaired person from the helm; install a sober, qualified operator.
Contact FWC/USCG or a nearby marina on VHF Ch. 16 if no sober operator is available.
Document the incident; arrange tow assistance if needed; do not depart until a sober captain is in command.

Comparisons & Edge Cases

Miami vs. other Florida coastal cities — enforcement and marina culture

Miami and Miami Beach see robust enforcement due to heavy traffic, sandbar congregations, and nightlife. Smaller towns may feel calmer but still enforce BUI and safety rules.

Anchored in Biscayne Bay vs. cruising offshore — when rules are stricter

Anchored parties in Biscayne Bay often trigger local noise and wake concerns. Offshore cruising invites USCG safety scrutiny—carry required gear and mind weather and sea state.

U.S. waters vs. Bahamas/Caribbean — transporting and consuming alcohol across borders

You can carry personal alcohol, but expect customs declarations and duties. Each country sets its own consumption laws, public drinking rules, and event permit requirements.

Private party vs. commercial event (weddings, corporate events) — permit and licensing differences

Insurance, Liability & Damage Claims

How alcohol consumption affects vessel insurance coverage

Policies frequently exclude losses caused by an intoxicated operator or illegal activity. Some underwriters want advance notice of events involving alcohol.

Liability waivers: what they cover and what they don’t

Well-drafted waivers can reduce ordinary negligence claims but won’t cover gross negligence, intentional misconduct, or statutory violations (e.g., service to minors).

Third-party liability and dram shop–style exposure on charters

If you sell or serve alcohol commercially, you may face dram shop–like exposure for over-service. Obtain dedicated liquor liability coverage and train staff.

Marinas, Ports & Docking Rules

Marina policies on alcohol, trash, glass, and smoking

Noise and time restrictions in Miami marinas and waterfront neighborhoods

Expect quiet hours and specific decibel limits. Violations can lead to fines or termination of your slip agreement.

Event permitting for dockside parties and live entertainment

Amplified sound and commercial activity may require city permits and proof of insurance. Coordinate with marina management and city officials well in advance.

Best Practices & Safety Checklist for Drinking on a Yacht

Pre-departure checklist (captain sober, life jackets, float plan, limits)

Sober, qualified operator designated
PFDs for all passengers, throwable device ready
VHF radio, GPS, flares, first-aid, fire extinguishers checked
Float plan filed; weather and sea-state reviewed
Passenger headcount within capacity; glass minimized

Safe-serving tips (hydration, food, alcohol pacing, designated operator)

Serve water and food continuously; favor lower-ABV drinks
Limit rounds; cut off anyone showing imbalance or confusion
Keep the swim ladder up when guests are impaired; use a kill switch lanyard

Emergency preparedness (communication, nearby marinas, tow services)

Program TowBoatUS/Sea Tow and local marina numbers
Keep a charged phone and backup power; monitor VHF Ch. 16
Know the nearest safe harbor in Biscayne Bay and offshore

For more detailed safety steps before you depart, see our Yacht Safety Protocols.

Planning Events & Commercial Service

Permits, licenses and food/beverage service requirements for commercial events

Staffing: licensed bartenders, TABC equivalents and ID checks

Use trained, certified bartenders (responsible vendor training) who know ID verification and refusal protocols. Put ID checks and cut-off rights in your contract and guest briefings.

Pricing, corkage and alcohol packages — what to expect

Expect corkage fees for BYO, tiered bar packages, automatic gratuities, and deposits connected to damage and extra cleaning. Clarify refund and termination triggers tied to intoxication.

Resources & Contacts

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) — boating enforcement

myfwc.com/boating/regulations — safety, education, and enforcement contacts.

U.S. Coast Guard — safety and navigation assistance

uscg.mil — safety information and contacts. Hail VHF Channel 16 for emergencies.

Miami-Dade and Miami Beach police and marina manager contacts

Save non-emergency numbers from city websites and your marina office. Post them near the helm before departure.

Where to book a charter and plan bar service

Explore options for Miami yacht rentals and dedicated bar service on board.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — (15 common questions)

1. Is it legal to drink alcohol on a private yacht in Miami?

Yes, for passengers. The operator must remain sober; marinas may restrict glass and dockside open containers.

2. Can the captain drink alcohol while the boat is underway?

No. Drinking while operating risks BUI arrest and civil liability.

3. What is the legal BAC limit for operating a boat in Florida?

Impairment is the standard; 0.08% BAC is persuasive evidence of impairment.

4. Are open containers allowed on a vessel in Miami?

Generally yes on private boats. Public spaces and marinas can restrict them dockside.

5. Can minors drink alcohol on a yacht if supervised by parents?

No. Florida prohibits furnishing alcohol to anyone under 21.

6. If I charter a yacht, can I bring my own alcohol?

Often yes, subject to corkage and the operator’s written policy.

7. Do charter companies provide bartenders and alcohol service?

Many do; commercial service may require licenses and liquor liability insurance.

8. What happens if someone is arrested for BUI on a yacht?

They face criminal charges, fines, possible jail, and insurance fallout.

9. Will my boat insurance cover incidents caused by intoxicated guests?

Often excluded—review your policy and ask about endorsements.

10. Are there different rules when the yacht is anchored vs. cruising?

Being anchored doesn’t automatically exempt you; control + impairment can still equal BUI.

11. Can I legally drink in Miami waters that are technically federal?

Yes for passengers; USCG and Florida rules still apply to U.S.-flagged vessels.

12. What permits do I need for a wedding or commercial event with alcohol on a yacht?

Likely liquor service licensing, event permits, and proof of insurance. Confirm with the marina and city. For weddings, see wedding yacht rentals.

13. Can crew members serve alcohol without a license?

For private hospitality, usually yes; for sales/service, a licensed provider may be required.

14. What are common marina restrictions related to alcohol and parties?

No glass, quiet hours, limits on amplified music, and guest caps on docks.

15. How do I minimize legal risk when hosting an alcohol-focused event on a yacht?

Hire a sober captain, use licensed bartenders, verify IDs, obtain liquor liability insurance, and follow marina/charter policies.

Appendix — Sample Checklists, Contract Clauses & Quick Templates

Sample captain-customer alcohol clause to request when chartering

Quick emergency action checklist for intoxication incidents

Remove person from helm.
Assign sober monitor and document behavior.
Call nearest marina or USCG on VHF Ch. 16.
Arrange transport to shore if medical attention is needed.
Preserve evidence (photos, witness names) and notify your insurer.