{"id":126563,"date":"2023-08-25T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-25T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/?p=126563"},"modified":"2024-08-20T17:00:50","modified_gmt":"2024-08-20T17:00:50","slug":"florida-boating-and-drinking-laws","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/florida-boating-and-drinking-laws\/","title":{"rendered":"Florida Boating and Drinking Laws: What You Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Sunshine State loves having fun on and off the water. With commercials and country songs that sing about the joy of cracking a cold one on the open waves, it\u2019s easy to think that drinking and boating is simply a way of life during the summertime. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, Florida takes boating safety<\/a> seriously, and that goes for drinking and boating as well. At BOATsmart!, we’re equally as passionate about safety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wondering about Florida boating and drinking laws? We’re here to help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Source: BOATsmart! Online Boating Education Course<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Alcohol on the Water is Dangerous<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Just like with riding in or driving a car, there are several state (and federal) laws around drinking and boating. Since alcohol has negative effects that are quickly magnified on the water, it makes sense. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

After all, it\u2019s all about keeping boaters safe so they can continue to have fun. So, here\u2019s everything you need to know when it comes to enjoying alcohol (or being under the influence of drugs) when boating in Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Florida Boating and Drinking Laws Say About Drinking on a Boat<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When boating in Florida, it\u2019s against the law to operate any boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs \u2014 and it doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019re on a jet ski or a motorboat. You\u2019re considered legally impaired by alcohol if you appear to be under the influence or if you have a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08% or more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Florida, this number also goes for drivers \u2014 and is similar across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Under Florida drinking and boating laws, it is not against the law to have an open container on a boat (unlike in the car), but the intoxication levels are the same. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Operating a boat while under the impairment or influence of alcohol is a big no-no and can cause massive fines and jail time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Florida boaters also must submit themselves to sobriety tests<\/a> when operating boats if they\u2019re suspected of being under the influence. As a Florida boating passenger, you can also enjoy alcohol responsibly . . . but “responsibly” is the key word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Are the Penalties for Drinking and Boating in Florida?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Florida boating and drinking laws state that you can get a BUI\u2014 or a Boating Under the Influence \u2014 charge\u00a0if you are found operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Florida boaters receiving a BUI face possible jail time and monetary fines. They can also lose their driver\u2019s and boating licenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Sunshine State isn\u2019t joking when it comes to BUI penalties, and penalties can include<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n