The U.S. Coast Guard has issued an alert warning reminding boaters that they must stay at least 100 feet away from all U.S. naval vessels.

Boaters must operate at minimum speed when within 500 yards of a naval vessel.

Breaking those rules is a felony violation of the naval vessel protection zone and is punishable by up to six years in prison and $250,000 in fines.

If you need to pass within 100 yards of a naval vessel for some reason, you must contact the vessel or the Coast Guard escort service on VHF–FM channel 16.