The difference in the number of passengers allowed on commercial vs. recreational vessels in a Yacht Rental Miami (or anywhere in the U.S.) comes down to U.S. Coast Guard regulations, which are all about safety, certification, and liability.

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Miami Yacht Rental

⚖️ Why Is the Passenger Limit Different?

🛥️ 1. Commercial Vessels:

• Licensed and Inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to carry more than 6 passengers for hire.
• Must have a Certificate of Inspection (COI), which includes:
  • Maximum number of passengers allowed
  • Safety gear requirements
  • Regular inspections
  • Licensed captain and crew
• Can carry 12+, 20+, or even 100+ passengers for Miami Yacht Rental experience, depending on the vessel size and certification level.

🔐 Why?
Because these vessels are designed, tested, and maintained for commercial use — they must meet strict safety and engineering standards.

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Yacht Rental Miami

⚓️ 2. Recreational (Bareboat) Vessels:

• Typically private vessels being temporarily rented as a Miami Private Boat Rental under a bareboat charter agreement.
• Legally limited to no more than 12 passengers, regardless of the vessel size.
• You (the renter) become the “owner” during the rental, and you must hire your own captain and crew.
• The limit comes from federal maritime law to prevent unsafe commercial activity on vessels not certified for it.

🚫 Why the limit of 12?
To differentiate private leisure use from unlicensed commercial operations, and to protect passengers from unsafe or illegal charters.

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Miami Private Boat Rental

🚨 What Happens if You Violate This?

• Illegal charters (uninspected recreational vessels carrying more than 12 passengers) can result in:
  • Immediate termination of the trip
  • Fines (often thousands of dollars)
  • Boat impoundment
  • Legal liability for accidents or injuries

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✅ Summary: Why the Limits Exist

Type	Legal Limit	Why
Commercial Vessel	Based on vessel’s COI (12–100+)	Inspected, crewed, and fully certified for public charters
Recreational Vessel (Bareboat)	Max 12 passengers (plus crew)	Not inspected or licensed for public charters — private use only

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Bottom line:
The 12-passenger rule for recreational yachts is about safety and legality. If you need to host more than 12 guests, book a commercial vessel with a valid COI.

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