USCG Regs
If you’ve started looking for a fishing charter along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, you’ve probably noticed something surprising.
Many private charter boats advertise a maximum of six passengers.
Why six?
Is it because the boats are too small?
Not necessarily.
The answer has more to do with U.S. Coast Guard regulations than the size of the boat itself.
The “Six-Pack” Rule
Many charter boats operate under what’s commonly called a “six-pack” license.
This allows a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain to carry up to six paying passengers on an uninspected vessel.
These boats can range from center consoles and bay boats to larger offshore fishing boats. Some have plenty of physical room for more than six people—but federal regulations still limit them to six paying passengers.
That’s why you’ll often see charter listings that say:
- Maximum 6 passengers
- Up to 6 guests
- Private charter for 6
It’s simply the type of Coast Guard certification the boat operates under.
What If You Have More Than Six People?
This is where many families and large groups run into a problem.
Maybe you’re planning:
- A family reunion
- A bachelor or bachelorette trip
- A corporate outing
- A church group
- A youth sports team celebration
- A multi-family vacation
Suddenly your group has 8, 10, 12, or even 20 people.
Many charter companies can certainly help—but in most cases, the group has to split onto two or more boats.
While everyone still gets to fish, the experience isn’t quite the same.
Instead of sharing every catch, every dolphin sighting, and every photo together, the group spends the day separated.
What Is an Inspected Vessel?
Some charter boats operate under a different set of Coast Guard regulations.
These boats are Coast Guard inspected and certified to carry more than six passengers.
Before receiving that certification, the vessel must meet additional safety requirements and undergo regular Coast Guard inspections.
The exact number of passengers varies depending on the vessel’s Certificate of Inspection (COI).
These larger inspected boats are much less common than six-passenger charters, but they provide an excellent option for larger private groups that want to stay together.
Why Staying Together Makes a Difference
For many groups, the fishing is only part of the experience.
The real memories come from:
- Watching someone’s first fish come over the rail
- Cheering each other on
- Taking group photos with the day’s catch
- Sharing lunch and stories during the trip
- Watching dolphins swim alongside the boat
- Laughing together all day long
Those moments are hard to recreate when everyone is split between multiple boats.
A Great Option for Large Groups in Fort Morgan
At KOKA Charters, our vessel, No Doubt, is a U.S. Coast Guard-inspected vessel certified to carry up to 23 passengers.
That means larger families, church groups, corporate teams, bachelor and bachelorette parties, youth groups, and family reunions can enjoy the entire day together on one boat instead of coordinating multiple charters.
It’s one of the reasons so many larger groups choose to fish from Fort Morgan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can more than six people legally go deep sea fishing together?
Yes. You’ll simply need a charter boat that’s Coast Guard inspected and certified to carry more than six passengers.
Are inspected vessels safer?
All legal charter boats must follow Coast Guard safety regulations. Inspected vessels meet an additional set of Coast Guard requirements because they’re certified to carry larger numbers of passengers.
Why don’t all charter boats become inspected vessels?
Operating an inspected vessel involves additional construction standards, equipment requirements, inspections, and operating regulations. Many charter businesses specialize in six-passenger trips because that model works well for their business and their customers.
Is splitting into two boats a bad idea?
Not at all. Many groups enjoy fishing on two boats. However, if keeping everyone together is important, an inspected vessel can make the experience much more enjoyable.
Ready to Plan a Trip for Your Whole Group?
If you’re organizing a fishing trip for a large family, company outing, church group, or special event, we’d be happy to help you find the right trip. Our Coast Guard-inspected vessel can accommodate groups of up to 23 passengers, allowing everyone to enjoy the adventure together.
Explore our charter options or contact us today—we’re happy to answer questions and help you plan the perfect day on the water.
| Six-Pack Charter | Inspected Charter |
|---|---|
| Up to 6 passengers | More than 6 passengers (based on COI) |
| Most common type | Less common |
| Great for small groups | Ideal for large groups |
| Often center consoles | Often larger offshore vessels |
| May require multiple boats for large groups | Entire group stays together |
Planning a Trip for More than Six People?
If you’re organizing a trip for a large family, church group, sports team, corporate outing, or bachelor party, don’t assume you’ll have to split into multiple boats. Larger Coast Guard-inspected vessels are available—and keeping everyone together often makes the day even more memorable.
At KOKA Charters, our 60-foot No Doubt is certified to carry up to 23 passengers, giving your entire group the chance to fish, relax, and make memories together.