10 Innocent Mistakes That Can Get Your Boat Seized

It doesn't take much to lose your boat. One slip with your paperwork, one crossed border, or one forgotten safety update could leave your vessel tied up at the dock with a government seizure notice. In this video, we break down 10 Innocent Mistakes that regular sailors make every day—mistakes that can get your boat seized by the Coast Guard, Customs, or local authorities. We cover: Paperwork Traps: Why a "handshake deal" title transfer is a ticking time bomb. The "Restricted Zone" Risk: How crossing an invisible line on a chart can get you detained. Border Crossing Failures: The dangerous reality of carrying "innocent" items into foreign waters. Insurance Gaps: Why operating without proof of coverage is more than just a fine. Emergency Gear Red Flags: How an expired EPIRB or mismatched MMSI can trigger a seizure. Don't let a simple error cost you your pride and joy. Know the rules before you leave the dock. ⏱️ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Intro: It Can Happen to Anyone 00:59 1. Unregistered or Improperly Transferred Ownership 02:00 2. Using a Suspended or Forged Registration 03:06 3. Entering Restricted or Military Zones 04:16 4. Carrying Prohibited Items Across Borders 05:22 5. Operating Without Proof of Insurance 06:29 6. Failure to Report a Previous Accident 07:36 7. Expired or Misused EPIRBs/MMSIs 08:46 8. Transporting Undeclared Goods (Alcohol/Fuel) 09:51 9. Unlicensed or Intoxicated Operator 11:01 10. Ignoring Customs Check-in Requirements 12:07 Outro: Innocence Doesn't Protect You 🔔 Subscribe for more crucial boating safety tips, legal advice for sailors, and guides on how to keep your vessel safe and compliant. 💬 Have you ever had a close call with authorities while boating? Share your story in the comments below. #BoatSeizure #BoatingLaws #CoastGuard #SailingSafety #MarineLaw #BoatRegistration #BorderCrossing