by: Michael Andrew Mcdonough

Jul. 03, 2025

Alcohol is a significant factor in Minnesota’s boating accidents and fatalities, the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that alcohol is involved in about 30% of fatal boat accidents in Minnesota. With over 613,000 motorized boats and more than 822,000 total watercraft registered, lakes and rivers become especially dangerous over extended holiday weekends like the Fourth of July. 

During this period, Minnesota’s DNR emphasizes zero-tolerance for boating while impaired (BWI). Anyone caught operating a vessel while intoxicated faces arrest, possible jail time, and revocation of their driving and boating privileges. Authorities also underscore the importance of personal safety, mandating life jacket use and encouraging sober boat operators as essential to preventing casualties. Lt. Eric Sullivan, supervisor of the marine unit for the state DNR’s enforcement division said “Here’s the bottom line. Drunk boating is drunk driving.”

In 2023, Minnesota saw 9 boating-related deaths, and nationally, the U.S. Coast Guard notes alcohol is the leading contributing factor in recreational boating deaths when the primary cause is known. These statistics highlight the serious risk intoxicated boating poses to both operators and passengers. Because of this, Minnesota uses a system called “Operation Dry Water” every year during the 4th of July weekend. 

What is Operation Dry Water?

Operation Dry Water is a national boating under the influence awareness and enforcement campaign, launched annually around the Fourth of July weekend. From July 4th through 7th, Minnesota’s DNR conservation officers and local patrol units increase on-water enforcement patrols statewide. In 2024, over 7,000 officers were on duty under the Operation Dry Water campaign, issuing over 10,000 citations total

Tips to Avoid Boating While Impaired

Staying safe this Fourth of July on Minnesota waters means combining awareness and prevention: respect alcohol limits, ensure life jackets are worn, and always designate a sober operator. Enforcement during Operation Dry Water will be strict, and the consequences for impaired boating are serious, don’t let a celebration end in tragedy or legal trouble.

Designate a sober skipper - Just like having a sober driver, assign someone to stay completely sober while operating the boat. Minnesota law reinforces that impaired boating is treated exactly like drunk driving 

Know the BAC limit of 0.08% - Minnesota enforces the same 0.08% blood alcohol concentration limit on watercraft as on roads. Keeping track of drinks and testing your BAC, or better yet, abstaining from alcohol, can prevent dangerous assumptions.

Wear life jackets - Minnesota DNR reports that 90% of boating fatalities occur without a life jacket . Even moments of inebriation can lead to accidental overboard situations where a personal flotation device saves lives.

Plan alternative transportation - Consider sleeping onshore, using a friend’s boat, or hiring a skipper if you plan to drink. This eliminates risk entirely and ensures everyone can enjoy the weekend responsibly.

Educate on laws and safety - Familiarize yourself with Minnesota’s boating regulations, requirements for sobriety, safety gear, and age-based operating permits, to avoid unintentional violations

BWI Defense Attorney in Minnesota

If you or a loved one has been charged with Boating While Impaired (BWI) in Minnesota, including Lake Marion in Dakota County or The Chain of Lakes near Minneapolis, it is important to hire a criminal defense attorney immediately. McDonough Law provides criminal defense representation for those charged with Boating or Driving While Impaired in Apple Valley and surrounding communities. Call (612) 481-2797) to request a free consultation.

About The Author

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Michael Andrew Mcdonough
Michael McDonough is an attorney at McDonough Law. His areas of practice include: criminal defense, criminal record expungement and juvenile defense. As a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in Apple Valley, Michael McDonough understands how difficult it is for clients to face criminal charges in court. He always treats every client with respect and compassion, regardless of their criminal bac ...read more

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