It's the Law: On the Water

Alcohol and Drugs

• South Carolina law prohibits anyone from operating a moving motorized vessel or vessel under sail on the waters of this state while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination thereof.
• Penalties include a fine of up to $6,000 and up to three years imprisonment. In addition, a person's privilege to operate any vessel may be suspended for up to two years. Enrollment in and successful completion of an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action course and a South Carolina Boating Safety course are also required at the person's expense.
• Felony BUI (boating under the influence) carries penalties up to a $25,000 fine and 25 years imprisonment.
• A person who operates a vessel is considered to have given consent ("implied consent") to a chemical test or analysis of his or her breath, blood, or urine.

Just remember this simple rule:
Don't drink and boat!