Even most folks I boarded didnt realize the big difference between standing on terra firms and standing on a floating platform, registered (or not) in a navigable water of the United States. (even when tied to the pier).
The Coast Guards enforcement powers were designed, and rightly so, long ago and are exactly as they should be. The boarding officer has the right to look in every space on the vessel that could hold a person, and to have all the firearms on board accounted for....and yes the semi auto's are going to get a function check to insure they are semi-auto, all the weapons will be called in and checked if they are stolen, as well as the id's of everyone on board.
These are the rules you have to follow folks. Just as you make yourself aware of your rights and obligations to drive a car and what to expect when you are puilled over for speeding, If you have a boat in U.S. waters, you better know your rights and responsibilities that go along with it.
Hey Tonk, that ping pong jab was meant for you!
I just finished designing this site, from "my bright idea",
after getting the "Official" OK from Dist 13 top CFVE's i.e.
Chief, Fishing Vessel Safety Branch
US Coast Guard District 13
and
Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Coordinator
US Coast Guard Sector Seattle WA
and
Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Coordinator
US Coast Guard Sector Portland OR
Commercial Fishing Vessel
Safety Examiners Association
http://www.cfvsea.com/
This is not an official US Coast Guard
or Department of Homeland Security sponsored website.
CFVSEA.com is an unofficial website
who's sole purpose is promoting
Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety for both
Documented and State Registered Vessel's
engaged in Commercial Fishing in the United States
CFVSEA.com contributors are composed of
Active Duty Coast Guard, Reserve Coast Guard,
Coast Guard employees and Coast Guard Auxiliary members
who conduct courtesy fishing vessel safety dockside exams.
The information and links are provided by CFVSEA.com are for reference only.
We do not have any input, nor do we update,
any official US Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security,
NOAA, FCC, or any other local or state
government websites.
http://www.cfvsea.com/