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It happens in many different ways. You have a small fire on board and your family boat and have to abandon it until you can get back and take it to the repair shop. You get caught in a storm and your boat gets bashed on some rocks and springs a big leak. Again you abandon it until you can get back and take it to the repair shop. You leave your boat anchored while you are on shore doing something. Meanwhile thieves strip your boat. You have to abandon it while the police investigate, and until you can get back and take it to a repair shop. Then something else happens in your life. You or a member of your family gets sick. You lose your job. You get hit with a huge bill on something else. All the while your family boat is sitting there waiting for you to come back and get it to the repair shop. Unfortunately it has now become a derelict boat, either creating an eyesore or even causing problems for navigation. In some states you could face some hefty charges. For example in Florida, here’s what the state Wildlife and Fisheries Commission website has to say about an “at risk vessel.” Definition: A vessel that has been observed by a law enforcement officer as having indications it will become a derelict vessel soon. Official action: The officer will record information on the boat and it will go into the state’s derelict vessel database. He will tag the vessel with a notice that will show why it is “at risk.” A letter will be mailed to registered owner with the same tagged information. What to do: As the owner, you must do everything possible to bring the vessel into compliance. Once repairs or changes are made, you should contact the officer and he will inspect it. If it passes inspection, he will remove the “at risk” status. If not, he will suggest other things you need to do. If You Do Nothing: Your vessel could fall into the derelict category. You could be charged with a crime under Florida law. If the vessel has to be moved, you will be responsible for removal costs as well as fines, fees, registration revocation and, possibly, jail. While not every state has as stringent a law as Florida (where the derelict vessel problem is especially bad), you can check with your state wildlife or outdoors agency for more information. But no matter what the law, letting your family boat become derelict is not a good idea. Florida-based EdgeWater Power Boats is a manufacturer of premium boats for cruising, diving, fishing and skiing.
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