According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal recreational boating incidents nationwide. What Penalties Await Someone Boating Under the InfluenceThis "Know Before You Boat" campaign got us thinking about the penalties for operating a boat while under the influence. A person operating a boat is held to the same standards as someone behind the wheel of a car. The captain of the boat may also have to submit to a Breathalyzer test to determine their blood alcohol content. With a campaign like "Know Before You Boat" underway, you can be sure that officials will be on the lookout for boaters not following the laws.