05/18/2026
Last week, Auxiliarist Bruce Johnson with U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 23-3: Greater Annapolis conducted a UPV examination as part of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary’s support to boating safety and maritime compliance efforts.
A UPV examination is a dockside safety inspection for an Uninspected Passenger Vessel, commonly known as a “six-pack” charter vessel. These commercial vessels carry up to six passengers for hire and are commonly used for fishing charters, sightseeing tours, and other small passenger operations. During the exam, vessel safety equipment, documentation, navigation lights, firefighting equipment, lifesaving gear, and overall compliance with applicable federal safety regulations are reviewed to help promote safe operations on the water.
Qualified Coast Guard Auxiliary members are specially trained and certified to perform these exams in support of the Coast Guard’s marine safety mission. Auxiliarists complete extensive training, qualification requirements, and supervised inspections before earning certification to conduct UPV examinations independently.
Thank you to Bruce for supporting boating safety and helping keep our waterways safe for the maritime community.