Just like driving under the influence ( DUI ), it is illegal to drink and operate a boat in all 50 states, with each state enforcing their own unique penalties for those caught boating under the influence. These include large fines, possible jail time, and a potential effect on your driver’s license.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, roughly half of all boating fatalities involve alcohol. If that statistic alone doesn’t keep you from drinking and boating, then maybe the legal consequences will!