Charleston’s beautiful waterways are a major draw for locals and tourists alike — but not all boat rides are as safe or legal as they seem. This week, the U.S. Coast Guard stopped an illegal charter on the Wando River, raising new concerns about unregulated boating in the Lowcountry.
Illegal Charter Busted on Wando River
According to a post by U.S. Coast Guard Sector Charleston on September 5, a 26-foot boat was operating without the proper documentation and carrying too many passengers to qualify as an uninspected vessel. The boat was claiming to be a bareboat charter, which is a rental where the person renting the boat acts as the captain — but only under specific legal conditions.
In this case, officials say there was no valid agreement, and the boat was over capacity. That means it was not operating under safe or legal standards.
What is a Bareboat Charter?
A bareboat charter is when someone rents a boat without a captain or crew, and takes full responsibility for operating it. But there are strict rules:
The renter must have full control over the boat
There must be a signed agreement
The boat can carry no more than 12 passengers
Safety inspections are mandatory for larger vessels
In this incident, the boat failed to meet these requirements, making it an illegal charter under Coast Guard rules.
Why Illegal Charters Are Dangerous
The Coast Guard issued a strong warning to anyone planning to pay for a boat ride in Charleston:
“If you are paying for a boat ride in Charleston — make sure it’s legal so 1) you stay safe and 2) your relaxing day on the water is not cut short.”
Illegal charters are risky for several reasons:
They may not carry proper life jackets or emergency equipment
Operators might lack proper licenses or training
Boats may not be insured
Passengers have fewer legal protections if something goes wrong
Increased Crackdown on Unsafe Boating
Coast Guard teams in Charleston have said they are working closely with maritime law enforcement to crack down on these operations. With more people heading to the water during weekends and holidays, officials are urging the public to be aware and stay safe.
If you spot a boat that seems to be running illegal charters — such as overloading passengers or charging for rides without clear signage or licensing — you can report it to the Coast Guard Investigative Service.
How to Spot a Legal Charter in Charleston
Before booking a boat ride, make sure to:
Ask for credentials — licensed captains should carry proof
Check if the boat has USCG inspection stickers
Avoid boats that ask for cash-only payments or offer suspiciously low prices
Ensure the boat has life jackets and safety gear for everyone onboard
As Charleston continues to grow as a top destination for boating and water activities, safety must remain a top priority. The recent illegal charter bust on the Wando River serves as a reminder that not every ride is safe — or legal. Always verify the operator, ask questions, and know your rights before stepping aboard. A few minutes of caution can help ensure your day on the water is memorable for the right reasons.
