Our lakes are one of the best parts of summer in Minnesota. Whether you’re fishing, cruising on a pontoon, or spending the day water skiing, boating is a favorite warm-weather activity across the state. Unfortunately, alcohol remains one of the leading factors in serious boating accidents and fatalities.
Minnesota treats Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) very similarly to Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). A BWI arrest can result in criminal charges, fines, jail time, loss of boating privileges, and even the loss of your driver’s license. AAA Bail Bonds is here to explain the laws, penalties, how to stay safe on the water, and what to do if you find yourself facing BWI charges.
What Is Boating While Intoxicated (BWI)?
Under Minnesota law, it is illegal to operate or be in physical control of a motorized watercraft while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. A person can be charged with BWI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, the same legal limit that applies to motor vehicle drivers. This applies to motorboats, pontoons, personal watercraft, and other motorized vessels operating on Minnesota waters.
Can You Drink Alcohol on a Boat in Minnesota? 
Passengers are generally allowed to consume alcohol on a boat, and open containers are permitted on many watercraft. However, the operator of the boat cannot be impaired or exceed the legal BAC limit. Just because alcohol is allowed onboard does not mean boating under the influence is legal. If you’re enjoying a day on the water, it’s best to designate a sober driver.
What Are the Penalties for a BWI in Minnesota?
A first-time BWI offense can result in:
- Up to 90 days in jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Loss of boating privileges
- Possible driver’s license consequences
Penalties become more severe when aggravating factors are present, including:
- A BAC of .16 or higher
- Prior DWI or BWI offenses within the past 10 years
- Refusal to submit to testing
- A child under 16 years old onboard the vessel
In serious cases, offenders may face gross misdemeanor or felony charges, mandatory jail time, vehicle/watercraft forfeiture, and longer periods of license revocation.
What Should You Do After a BWI Arrest in Minnesota?
While every case is different, it’s important to remain calm and understand your options if you’ve been arrested for BWI. Depending on the circumstances of your arrest, you may need to post bail before being released from custody. Working with a licensed bail bond agency can help make the process faster and less stressful for both you and your family.
The team at AAA Bail Bonds is available 24/7 to help individuals and families navigate the bail process throughout Minnesota. We understand that an arrest can happen unexpectedly, and we’re committed to providing prompt, professional assistance when it’s needed most.
Tips for Safe Boating This Summer 
The easiest way to avoid a BWI charge is simple: designate a sober captain before leaving the dock.
Additional boating safety tips include:
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from excessive sun exposure
- Monitor weather conditions before heading out
- Make sure all required safety equipment and life jackets are onboard
- Follow navigation and speed regulations
- Never allow an impaired person to operate your boat
- Have a plan for getting home safely after a day on the water
For more boating safety tips, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has put together a boating guide to keep you safe on the lakes this summer. A little planning can help prevent accidents, injuries, and criminal charges.
Enjoy Minnesota’s Lakes Responsibly
Boating should be about making memories with family and friends, not spending the summer dealing with criminal charges or recovering from a preventable boating accident. Minnesota takes Boating While Intoxicated offenses seriously, and the consequences can follow you long after the boating season ends.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for BWI or another alcohol-related offense, AAA Bail Bonds is here to help families navigate the bail process throughout Minnesota. Contact us day or night at 612-900-3400 or toll-free at 888-228-2245.
Beware of Bail Scams 
Unfortunately, scammers often target families during stressful situations involving arrests. If someone contacts you claiming to be from a jail, court, or bail bond company and demands immediate payment through CashApp, Venmo, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers, proceed with caution. Legitimate bail bond transactions follow established legal procedures and should always be verified before sending money. When in doubt, contact a trusted, licensed bail bond agency like AAA Bail Bonds directly to confirm the information. Learn more about these bail scams here.
