Current world events are touching our lives as never before. As a boater, you may be placed in a situation
that may put you in legal jeopardy, if not at risk of injury or worse.
Knowing how to act in certain areas or situations can not only make your trip more
enjoyable, it can help
protect our country.
Naval Vessel Protection Zones
One thing you must contend with if you boat in certain areas of the country are
Naval Vessel Protection Zones.
These zones are designed to prevent attacks
against our navy by placing restrictions on how closely you may
come to a naval vessel.
The requirements are:
- You may not approach within 100 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. Sometimes this is an impossible thing
to accomplish. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage
in accordance with the Navigation Rules, you must contact the U.S. naval vessel or the Coast Guard escort
vessel on your VHF radio. (Channel 16).
- You must operate at minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. naval vessel. You must proceed as
directed by the vessels' commanding officer, or the
official patrol.
Violations of the Naval Vessel Protection Zone are a felony offense, punishable
by up to 6 years in prison
and/or up to $250,000 in fines.
And don't forget, both the Navy and the Coast Guard are authorized to use deadly
force to protect themselves...
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