Speaking of Beer

[one4water]

Who knows the actual rule about alchohol on the boat?

I rarely drink and never while driving, riding or boating(till back at the dock)but have friends and family on the boat that do. What are the real rules for open containers out on the boat?

Am I in trouble if I have not had a drink but get stopped with a fish box full of beer and a couple friends that have been drinking?

It probably varies but I boat in NJ.

[ScarabChris]

The laws may vary from state to state or county to county. But here in South FL you can drink while driving your boat but you can't be "over the legal limit"

I pass by the police with a beer in my hand all the time, I even drink right in front of them when I get stopped for a random check.

I think for the most part they know you're drinking and probably over the "legal" limit but they can tell if you are to drunk by the way you act. When you're sober you can spot a drunk very easy.

[Garett]

I know up here the only time open booze is allowed on a boat is when the boat is anchored, but I don't know about the really big boats. But in saying that, the boat must have sleeping quarters, galley w/ sink, frig/ built in ice box and a head.

[welder]

West coast is ZERO , NO ,NADA, The skipper can't even hold a cold one.

[Snapper Head]

When fishing, especially offshore, I very seldom have a beer. And if I do, it is only one during the run back to the dock.

For river runs and/or booze cruises, well.....

I don't know what the law in MS is. And I don't care. I don't get drunk on the water, ever.

Big Al