All states have laws against boating under the influence (BUI), which make it a crime to operate a boat or watercraft on a public waterway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In Washington State, Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is a criminal offense regulated under RCW 79A.60.040. It is illegal to operate any vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, marijuana, or any drug. A person is considered to be under the influence if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if they are affected by alcohol or drugs to an appreciable degree. BUI is a gross misdemeanor in Washington, which can result in penalties including fines, imprisonment, and the loss of boating privileges. Additionally, implied consent laws apply to BUI offenses, meaning that by operating a vessel on Washington waters, operators have consented to alcohol or drug testing if suspected of BUI. Refusal to take a test can lead to additional penalties.