Coast Guard Infoline

The Coast Guard Infoline is a toll-free telephone service operated by the U.S. Coast Guard in Washington, D.C. Infoline operators provide callers with information on boating safety recalls and take consumer complaints about possible safety defects. Other safety information and literature concerning recreational boating can also be obtained through the Infoline. Anyone in the United States, Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands can call the Infoline number toll-free, Monday through Friday 8 AM to 4 PM eastern time.

1-800-368-5647

Will the operator answer all my questions?

Infoline operators are trained to answer many questions on boating safety directly over the telephone. If the question is very technical, the operator can ask a Coast Guard specialist to call you back. Or if the question is too complicated to answer directly over the telephone, the operator may send you written information that covers the subject. If the questions deal with topics outside of the Coast Guard's Recreational Boating Safety program, the Infoline operator may refer you to an office or agency that can help.

What consumer questions cannot be answered by the Infoline?

Sorry, the Infoline operator is not able to recommend or endorse specific boats or product lines; nor can the Infoline help the consumer resolve disputes with boat dealers or manufacturers about service or problems that do not involve safety.

If I have a safety problem with my boat, should I call the Infoline?

Yes, consumers are an important source of information used by the Coast Guard to identify safety problems in recreational boats. When you call to report a safety problem, you will be sent an owner's report form on which you can document the details of your problem. You will also be sent a postage-paid return envelope. Alternatively, the Infoline can provide you with information about how to submit a report online. Individual reports may not prompt Coast Guard response or a safety recall, but each is given consideration and becomes an important part of Coast Guard data records.

Is boating safety and consumer information available only by phone? The Infoline is a fast and convenient way for a boater to get important safety information. But if you prefer to write for information, address your request to:

Commandant (G-OPB-3)

U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters

Washington, D.C. 20593-0001

The Infoline is for consumer services only, it is not for on-water emergencies or personal distress calls.

• Boating Accident Statistics
• Accidents While Aboard Commercial Vessels
• Boating Accident Verdicts

• Boating Accident - United States Coast Guard
Annual statistics of reported boating accidents compiled from all fifty states by the U.S. Coast Guard - Adobe Acrobat Reader required.