Is It Legal to Drink While Kayaking or Canoeing in Tennessee?

Tennessee is home to so many outdoor recreational destinations. For some people enjoying time outdoors camping, hiking, or kayaking also includes adult beverages but can you get in trouble if you drink and kayak?

Operating Intoxicated

Most anyone over the age of 16 knows the law when it comes to drinking and driving. Regardless of the state or whether you call it a DUI, DWI, or OWI, there are steep fines, penalties, and even jail time that coincide with being arrested for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

What Is the Legal BAC in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the legal limit is a blood alcohol content of 0.08%.  A first-time offender can face fines up to $1,500, jail time, the loss of driving privileges, and more repercussions, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.

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Boating While Intoxicated Is Illegal in Tennessee

It is illegal to boat and drink too and you can be arrested for this as well. In Tennessee, boating while intoxicated with a BAC of 0.08% or higher is illegal. It turns out, your boat or watercraft doesn't have to have a motor either.

Can You Operate a Kayak or Canoe in Tennessee If You've Been Drinking?

But what about drinking and canoeing or kayaking? Those are also considered a boat and even though they are not motorized it is illegal to drink while using one of these vessels. According to KayakGuru.com, it is illegal in all 50 states, including Tennessee to operate a vessel if you have consumed alcohol or other intoxicants.

What Kind Of Penalties?

According to Tennessee law, he penalty for operating a kayak, canoe, or other watercraft while intoxicated varies by state. In Tennessee, you are at risk of jail time and large fines. In addition, in Tennessee, you could lose your operating privileges, according to boat-ed.com.

Always Play It Safe

In addition to getting caught and prosecuted, there is the risk of injury to yourself and others. The risk far outweighs any reward you might find in cracking open a cold one while you float in a kayak or canoe so why risk it?