The Department of Marine and Ports is accepting applications for temporary charter permits due to the demand for spectator boats during the America’s Cup.

While the department will be taking applications for private boats to operate for hire between October 16 and 18, when the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series event takes place, but all of the standard Island Boat criteria must still be met.

The Code of Practice for Island Boats is available for viewing or download on the Department’s website, www.marineandports.bm, and the deadline for application is 4.30pm on Monday.

“The Department of Marine and Ports wishes to remind the boating public that under the Marine Board Act 1962 it is an offence to operate a vessel for hire unless the vessel has been licensed as an Island Boat by the department,” a spokeswoman said.

“Operating a private boat for hire without the appropriate license is a punishable offence in law and boat owners should be aware that any insurance they may have becomes void. Should there be an accident or incident the boat owner will be fully liable.”

Applications for the temporary charter permit can be obtained by contacting the boats and moorings section on 294-4454 or 294-4453, or by emailing boatsandmoorings@gov.bm.