Coast Guard Tow

[Nofish]

I have a question, especially after hearing of Pilar's unfortunate situation. When a boat breaks down offshore and calls for aid, does the Coast Guard charge for the tow? I know in more populated areas, they have things such as Vessel Assist. No such animal though off Depoe.

[outdoor.spec.ops]

From what I have heard, they dont charge for a breakdown, but will charge if the situation is your fault, like running out of petro :shocked:

[Myles]

NO charge for equipment failure, Stupidity is another story.

myles

[Captn]

I have been there and done that. There was no charge. Good question though, many have asked that, I don't think they charge even for running out of gas. Perhaps someone else on the board knows. And the fellows were great. Courtsey and respect on both sides overflows from the rescued and the rescuer. They take their work very seriously, possibly more seriously than most of the people they rescue.

My heart goes out to John, I know what it is like, and for me anyway, it really didn't sink in until a few months later, ie just how fast those situations can go bad.

We are lucky to have them in Newport. I will support their efforts any way that I can.

[Pitch Pocket]

I've talked to the CG about this some time ago, they cannot charge a US citizen for their response. Even if you suffer from stupidity. It's not like stupidity is a crime.

[Sea Jypzee]

They're paid out of tax dollars. IMO one of the best uses of our federal tax money. But that's a subject for another thread.

[Nofish]

Thanks for the great responses so far...you folks are fantastic!

I guess the reason I posed the question was back in my younger days I worked for the National Park Service. Whenever a hiker sprained their ankle or busted their leg and required a helicopter evacuation, they got the bill...OUCH!!! Vessel assist is a thriving business in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay Areas. I just figured they thrived because the Coast Guard costs more.

I am of course tickled to hear that the Coast Guard will provide the service for no fee (off Oregon at least). I sure pray I will never have to call on them.

As a side note, my son is considering enlisting in the Coast Guard after he graduates from high school. I cannot think of a better outfit for him to sign on to.

[WaterDog]

I thought the Coasties could issue a fine if you run out of gas.

I thought I heard some dock talk on the last Halibut day about a couple of boats needing a tow and that they had been fined because they ran out of fuel.

[Beer Waggin]

I've heard the rumor about them fining you if you run out of gas, but more than likely I would say they recieved their fines for other stuff. Lights, horn, blowers, etc, not working, or missing life jackets, fire ext., so on and so on.

[Slugranch]

The Coast Guard won't charge you to tow you, but after they get you to the dock, and do a vessel exam, they can and usually do cite you for lack of equipment or other safety violations.