Tour Boat

Question
I have located a 40' tour boat that has a capacity of 48 persons and two crew.  It is CG certified for river cruises.  The area I plan on operating in is the Manatee River (Florida) from I-75 East.  I am having trouble finding our exactly what licenses are needed, and whom they will come from.  I seem to be getting shuffled between Florida Fish & Wildlife, Manatee County , and the U.S.C.G.  Any ideas on whom to contact for the true story ?
Thanks

Answer
Hi Phil...Thanks for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

Perhaps consulting the former owner might guide you to complying with all pre-requisites to commence your business operation. On the other hand, other tour boat operators in your vicinity may offer assistance.

I'm in Canada, and not familiar with the legalities of county, state, and federal jurisdictions.

It would be beneficial to know the date the vessel's USCG certification expires, and in all likelihood, Manatee County would issue the appropriate business licence, and Florida Fish & Wildlife may control your hours of operation and the route(s) navigated.

In the final analysis, you may have to put your foot down and insist that another individual with authority within the county and state provide you with a positive response to your needs and requirements.

Safe Boating
Ron