The subject of boating licenses is a touchy one, with heated debate on both sides. Some argue that you can’t operate a car or plane without a license, so why not boats, which can be just as dangerous? Others say the sea is our last great freedom and should be open to everyone.
I won’t risk my readers’ wrath by supporting either side.
However, there are licenses that can vastly improve the boating lifestyle for many skippers. The most significant is issued by the U.S. Coast Guard: the OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels), commonly called the “Six-Pack.” This license allows a skipper to legally operate a boat carrying up to six paying passengers for hire on small-scale charters, such as fishing trips, sightseeing tours or scuba outings. Not only can it be used to earn money on the water, but—perhaps more importantly—it can save you money on boat insurance. Insurers favor skippers licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard and you can officially put “Capt.” before your name.
Another benefit: If you take friends fishing and they chip in for fuel, you are technically running an illegal charter, as you cannot accept payment unless you are licensed. While the Coast Guard is generally relaxed about this, it remains a potential concern.
The downside? You must take a Six-Pack course, either online or at one of the many mariner schools around Tampa Bay. You’ll also need a physical, drug testing and fingerprinting.
While the Six-Pack is not required for skippers in Florida, anyone born after Jan. 1, 1988, must have a Boating Safety Education ID Card to legally operate a boat on Florida waters. So, if you’re 37 or younger, you need the card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
You can take courses at various maritime schools and boating clubs, but these are all pay-to-play. However, BoatUS, an association that provides towing and boat insurance, offers a free online course for the Florida ID card.
Before you head into Tampa Bay, you may need one or more of these licenses—so don’t wait. Boating season is here!
Chris Caswell is an award-winning writer and the former editor of several yachting magazines. He has appeared on Oprah as a boating lifestyle expert and hosted the Marine Voyager series on the Speed Channel.
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