In Reply to: Contributing to food posted by Frank O on March 07, 2007 at 19:57:16:

I just cracked out my Chapman's Piloting & Seamanship (2003 edition). While they aren't the law themselves, they have some interesting input.

It's true that for a trip on a private boat to remain non-commercial, guests onboard must not have "contributed any consideration, directly or indirectly, for [their] passage."

"Typically, confusion arose when guests on board contributed toward the expenses of a purely recreational and social outing. The old regulations never defined 'consideration' and local Coast Guard offices interpreted each instance on a case-by-case basis, often differently in various areas. A definition has now been adopted that eliminates this confusion.

"_Consideration_ means an economic benefit, inducement or profit (including a payment of money) accruing to the owner of the vessel. However, specifically excluded is the voluntary sharing of actual expenses of the voyage by monetary contribution or by making a donation in kind of fuel, food, beverages or other supplies. Under these newer rules, several couples or friends may chip in to pay for the fuel, food, beverages and other expenses for a day's outing or cruise without becoming 'passengers for hire.'"

Viva la Chex Mix! :-)

• And the law itself Frank O 20:25:44 03/07/07 (0)