The United States Coast Guard has a long history in Maine, dating back to its founding in 1790. The Coast Guard is charged with so many missions, one wonders what don't they do on the water? Some of their activities include:

 

Aids to Navigation (ATON)

 

All of the bouys, lighthouses, range lights, fog signals etc. on federal waters are installed and maintained by the Coast Guard. Needless to say, with literally thousands of bouys, this is a major undertaking.

 

When you are out on the water you may see Coast Guard vessels servicing these aids. You can tell CG vessels used for this purpose since they are painted black. For a complete list of all ATONs in Maine, see the CG Light List.

 

One of Maine's most famous lighthouses is Portland Head Light, which is open to the public.

 

 

Law Enforcement (LE)

 

As the United State's premier maritime law enforcement agency, the CG has since its founding been responsible for enforcing our customs and immigration laws on the water. Today the mission has expanded to include fisheries law enforcenent, marine mammal protection, and general enforcement of federal laws and treaties.

 

You should be aware that at all times. the CG has the authority to board a US vessel anywhere in the world as well as all vessels in US waters. Prior to conducting a boarding the uniformed CG boarding team will inform you of their intentions and identify themselves. Initially they will conduct a safey inspection to identify any obvious safety hazards and ascertain the seaworthiness of your vessel. Assuming no problems of violations are detected, you will be issued a yellow copy of the official boarding report. If however violations are found, you will be issued a white copy which may be either a notice of violation or a warning.The procedures to follow will be explained by the boarding team and are also printed on the reverse of the white copy.

 

Search and Rescue (SAR)

Hopefully you will never find yourself in peril on the sea, but if you do, the CG is vigilant 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The best way to contact the CG is via a marine radio on channel 16.

Once contacted, the CG will assist you in finding someone to help you with minor problems such as running out of fuel or, if the situation warrants, dispatch a CG unit, be it a motor lifeboat, cutter, helicopter or airplane to assist you. The CG has a proud tradition of saving lives in all weather and sea conditions.

EMERGENCY CONTACT:  1-(800) 410-9549

Phone number: During working hours-contact (207) 767-0320, after working hours contact the Operations Center at (207) 767-0303.