Naval Vessel Protection Zone

 

Naval Vessel Protection Zone

Strict regulations have been issued relating to waterways for national security. Boaters must follow these regulations or be exposed to serious penalties. Our mutual security, in part, depends on your diligence in reporting suspicious activities that you may encounter on the water.

Requirements for all watercraft:

• Stay at least 100 yards from all military, cruise-line or commercial shipping vessels. Violating the Naval Vessel Protection Zone is a felony offense, punishable by up to six years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000 in fines.
• You must operate at slow, no-wake speed within 500 yards of U.S. Naval vessels.
• Check with local authorities and refer to current charts to identify and stay away from security zones and port operation areas.
• Generally, stay at least 100 yards from military areas, cruise lines and petroleum facilities. Also, stay away from dams and power plants.

At the request of the Captain of the Port, or District Commander, an area may also be designated a Security Zone. This zone may be highlighted in magenta (pink-red coloration) on charts to better stand out and warn the public to stay clear. Unauthorized vessels, without specific permission to enter, must stay out of these marked areas. Armed military, harbor police or civilian authorities, securing these areas, will confront violators.

Guidelines:

• Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in channel. If you do stop, be prepared to be boarded by patrolling authorities.
• Be observant and report any suspicious activity to U.S. Coast Guard or local authorities.
• Always secure and lock your boat when not on board.