Charter Boats
When a vessel of any size is hired for compensation (or the promise of compensation), either monetary or in-kind, to carry more than 6 passengers (or cargo) on state waters, it becomes a charter boat for the duration of the trip.
Charter boats come in many shapes and sizes. Examples include tour boats, barges, private yachts, fishing boats, and even sail boats.
State and federal certification requirements
Boats that operate on state waters are required to meet Washington State's licensing and inspections requirements established to ensure public safety.
Certification is a must when a vessel is used as a charter boat and the owner-operator is responsible for getting the vessel certified.
See below for state and federal certification requirements that may apply to your boat.
See L&I's workplace health and safety requirements for ALL boats.
Documentation requirements will vary depending on the number of passengers, type of cargo, and where the boat operates.
If you need help clarifying which certification requirements apply to you, contact the Charter Vessel Certification desk at 360-902-4489 or email to CharterBoats@lni.wa.gov.
Safety Standards for Charter Boats WAC 296-115
Inspection of charter boats — Certificate of inspection. RCW 88.04.035(1)
Application for inspection — Inspection fee. RCW 88.04.045(1)
- Washington Charter Boat Inspection Application (F416-058-000)
- Charter Boat Operator's License (F416-034-000) (application)
- Physical Examination Form (F416-056-000)
Copies are available by calling 360-902-4489.
| Number of Passengers | Operating on State Waters | Operating on 1 Federal (navigable) waters |
|---|---|---|
| 7 or more passengers OR cargo |
|
|
| Fewer than 7 passengers |
|
|
1 Federal (navigable) waters of the United States are those waters that are subject to the ebb and flow of the tide and/or are presently used, or have been used in the past, or may be susceptible for use to transport interstate or foreign commerce. A determination of navigability, once made, applies laterally over the entire surface of the waterbody, and is not extinguished by later actions or events which impede or destroy navigable capacity (CFR Title 33: Navigation and Navigable Waters PART 329 — Definition of Navigable Waters of the United States)