The Boynton Beach Police Department Marine Unit plays a vital role in protecting the City’s waterways, coastline, and marine resources. With miles of inland canals, high boating activity, and direct access to the Atlantic Ocean through the Boynton Beach Inlet, the City’s marine environment requires dedicated, highly trained officers who can operate safely and effectively on the water.
The Marine Unit supports the Department’s mission by promoting safe boating, enforcing maritime laws, conducting search and rescue operations, and working collaboratively with local, state, and federal partners.
What the Marine Unit Does
Marine Unit officers assist with a wide variety of public safety functions on the water, including:
- Routine waterway patrols to ensure safe boating practices
- Search and rescue operations for distressed or missing boaters
- Boater safety education and community engagement
- Support for criminal investigations and surveillance in marine environments
- Enforcement of state and local boating laws, including navigation rules and environmental protections
- Joint operations with federal partners to support customs, immigration, and anti-smuggling initiatives
- Response to marine emergencies, natural hazards, or significant weather events
Through visibility, enforcement, and public outreach, the Marine Unit helps protect both people and natural resources within the City’s waterways.
Jurisdiction & Operating Area
Marine Unit officers enforce Florida’s boating and navigation laws (Chapters 327 and 328, F.S.) within:
- All waters inside the City of Boynton Beach
- Waters up to three miles offshore
- Up to twelve miles offshore when assigned to federal operations, conducted by Blue Lightning-certified officers
The Boynton Beach Inlet’s link to federal waters makes collaboration with national authorities critical to maintaining safety and lawful activity on the water.
Training & Professional Standards
Marine Unit officers receive specialized training in:
- Boat and personal watercraft operation
- Maritime laws and navigation rules
- Local waterways, inlets, canals, and offshore conditions
- Search and rescue techniques
- Multi-engine vessel handling
- Emergency response and survival skills
All officers must also have an FWC Boating Safety Card and demonstrate above-average swimming proficiency.
Community Partnership & Education
A key mission of the Marine Unit is to encourage safe, responsible use of Boynton Beach waterways. Officers frequently assist boaters, provide safety tips, support community events, and collaborate with local marine organizations. Whether responding to a boater in distress or conducting a safety inspection, the Marine Unit acts as a visible partner dedicated to the well-being of residents, visitors, and marine wildlife.
The Boynton Beach Police Marine Unit is a critical asset for a coastal community. By combining expert training, modern equipment, and interagency cooperation, the unit ensures safe navigation, environmental stewardship, and rapid response in emergencies—helping keep Boynton Beach’s waterways safe, enjoyable, and secure for everyone.
