Orange Beach, Alabama is one of the Gulf Coast’s premier hubs for commercial and recreational boating. The city supports a large commercial fishing fleet, numerous charter fishing and sightseeing operators, and a thriving recreational boating scene with multiple marinas, launch ramps, and protected waterways.

Because of the volume of on-water activity, commercial boating in Orange Beach is closely regulated at the local, state, and federal levels. All operators affiliated with Getmyboat must comply with applicable permitting, vessel registration, captain licensing, insurance, and safety requirements.

Below is a comprehensive guide to commercial boating regulations in Orange Beach, Alabama.

Alabama Boater Safety Operating Certificate

Under Alabama law, most operators of motorized vessels are required to carry a valid Alabama Boater Safety Certification.

Key points:

  • A state-approved boating safety course is required for many operators, depending on age and date of birth
  • Certification must be carried onboard while operating a motorized vessel
  • Courses are available online and in person through approved providers

Operators should confirm current eligibility and requirements through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) or the Alabama Marine Police Division.

Vessel Registration (State & Federal)

All vessels operating commercially in Orange Beach must be properly registered.

State registration:

  • All watercraft operating in Alabama waters must be registered with the Alabama Marine Police Division
  • This includes vessels used for:
    • Passenger transport
    • Boat rentals
    • Fishing charters
    • Other commercial services

Federal documentation:

  • Many commercial vessels must also be documented with the U.S. Coast Guard, depending on vessel size and use

For registration guidance, operators should contact ALEA Marine Patrol directly.

Commercial Liability Insurance

Commercial marine insurance is required to protect passengers, operators, and property.

Important notes:

  • Getmyboat does not provide insurance
  • Operators must carry commercial liability coverage that explicitly allows:
    • Boat rentals
    • Charters
    • Passenger-for-hire operations
  • Coverage limits may vary by vessel size, activity type, and marina requirements

It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure insurance meets all state, federal, and local standards.

U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License

Anyone operating a for-hire vessel in Orange Beach must hold the appropriate USCG Captain’s License.

Common license types:

  • OUPV (6-Pack) License – Up to 6 paying passengers
  • Master Captain’s License – Required for vessels carrying more than 6 passengers or larger tonnage

⚠️ Important legal clarification:
Holding a state boater safety card does not replace a USCG captain’s license for commercial operations.

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Passenger Pick-Up & Drop-Off Locations

Passenger loading and unloading must occur at approved marinas or designated access points. Operators should confirm commercial access permissions in advance.

Common locations include:

  • Orange Beach Marina
    27075 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  • Romar Marina
    26350 Cotton Bayou Dr, Orange Beach, AL 36561
  • Orange Beach Boat Ramp
    27504 Marina Rd, Orange Beach, AL

Unauthorized passenger operations may result in fines or loss of access privileges.

Commercial Boat Permit & Livery Vessel Requirements

Commercial boat rental operations in Orange Beach must meet state and local business requirements.

Typical requirements include:

  • A county or city business license
  • Registration of the vessel as a Livery (Rental) Vessel with the Alabama Marine Police
  • A written rental agreement onboard, signed by:
    • Vessel owner/operator
    • Renter
  • Confirmation that renters receive safety instructions before departure

Failure to meet Alabama’s livery vessel requirements may result in enforcement action.

Additional Commercial Boating Regulations

Operational Rules

  • Commercial vessels may only operate in city-designated zones as defined by local ordinances
  • Operators must comply with all posted speed limits and navigational rules
  • Safe and responsible vessel operation is required at all times

Safety & Equipment

  • Commercial vessels must carry all USCG-required safety equipment, including:
    • Life jackets for all passengers
    • Fire extinguishers
    • First-aid supplies (when applicable)

⚠️ Inspection clarification:
Only USCG-inspected passenger vessels are subject to mandatory annual Coast Guard inspections. Not all commercial boats fall under this category.

Environmental & Noise Regulations

  • Commercial operators must maintain reasonable noise levels
  • All waste must be disposed of in compliance with city, state, and federal environmental laws
  • Discharge of pollutants into local waters is prohibited

Commercial Fishing

  • Commercial fishing vessels must obtain appropriate permits from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR)

Helpful Contacts

  • City of Orange Beach: (251) 981-6979
  • Alabama Marine Patrol (ALEA): (334) 676-6005

Final Note

Boating regulations in Orange Beach may change due to seasonal rules, enforcement updates, or state and federal law revisions. Commercial operators should always confirm requirements directly with ALEA Marine Police, the City of Orange Beach, and the U.S. Coast Guard before operating.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace official, current regulatory guidance.