Rapids

Drinking while on the lake?

Is it illegal in the state of Michigan to drink while out on a lake in a non-motor driven vessel? Like a raft, kayak, or canoe.

Public Comments

1. I think it is. It is illegal to to that here in NYC and New York State. It is considered public drinking. But who is going to know. If you aren't stearing the boat, you might get away with it. SH!
2. Anything that brings pleasure, is illegal. "Every law is an infraction of liberty." - Jeremy Bentham
3. I don't know, but drinking does affect your sense of balance, which you need in a non-motorized boat.
4. Yes, it is against the law. Here's what a Michigan Boating Safety Course website says: "Michigan law prohibits anyone from boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This includes operating any boat, sailboat, or personal watercraft. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities. It is also unlawful for the owner of a vessel to allow anyone else to operate their vessel if that person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Michigan law establishes the following penalties. * People arrested for boating under the influence are guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon a third conviction within 10 years, a person will be guilty of a felony. * If a person boating under the influence causes great bodily injury or death of another person, he or she will be guilty of a felony. By operating a vessel on Michigan waters, you have consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs if arrested by a law enforcement official." Here's a link to the site: http://www.boat-ed.com/mi/course/p4-5_alcoholdrugs.htm