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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-naval-vessel-100-yards

Without permission, how close may a recreational boat come to a large U.S. naval vessel?

No closer than 100 yards unless the Coast Guard or Navy authorizes it.

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  1. No closer than 100 yards ✔
  2. No closer than 25 yards
  3. No closer than 1 mile

Why: A Naval Vessel Protection Zone surrounds U.S. naval vessels over 100 feet long. No boat may come within 100 yards without permission from the Coast Guard, the senior naval officer or the official patrol.

Huh, didn't know that: To ask permission to pass within 100 yards, call on VHF channel 16.

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How much room does a Navy ship need? About a football field of respect.
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References

Answer: No closer than 100 yards. A Naval Vessel Protection Zone surrounds U.S. naval vessels over 100 feet long. No boat may come within 100 yards without permission from the Coast Guard, the senior naval officer or the official patrol.

  1. 33 CFR 165.2025, Naval vessel protection zone (Atlantic Area) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-165.2025
    no vessel or person is allowed within 100 yards of a large U.S. naval vessel unless authorized
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (USCG) www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
    Do not approach within 100 yards, and slow to minimum speed within 500 yards, of any U.S. Naval vessel.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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