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Designated Operator Program

Keeping Lake Havasu City waters Safe and Enjoyable — One Boat at a Time

"Designated Operators" Available for Hire

What Is a Designated Operator?

A Designated Operator (DO) is a qualified individual who is trained and approved by LHMA to operate a boat safely and responsibly on Lake Havasu City. Whether for personal use, boat rentals, or public events, these operators ensure that vessels are captained by sober, knowledgeable professionals who understand local waterways and boating laws.

The Lake Havasu Marine Association (LHMA) Designated Operator Program was created to help keep our waterways safe, especially during peak weekends and busy events. Through this program, LHMA connects the boating public with qualified local operators—ensuring that boats are captained by responsible, trained individuals who prioritize safety, boating etiquette, and a high level of professionalism.

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Whether you're renting a boat, heading out with friends, or attending an event on the lake, having a Designated Operator provides peace of mind and helps reduce boating accidents, injuries, and operating under the influence (OUI) incidents.

Designated Operators in this program must demonstrate competency in:

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  • Safe boating and handling techniques

  • Emergency response

  • Local navigation (day & night)

  • VHF radio communication

  • Arizona boating laws

  • River and lake geography

  • Public interaction and leadership on the water

LHMA maintains a list of trained, available-for-hire Designated Operators. Members of the public can request an operator for their private vessel or rental. Operators may also be Coast Guard–licensed captains, able to provide private charters for up to six passengers.

Why It Matters

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Hiring a Designated Operator:

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  • Helps reduce boating accidents

  • Is far cheaper than an OUI citation

  • Keeps the lake safer for everyone

  • Ensures a smoother, more enjoyable experience

Request your designated operator by completing the form below. 

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  • Does this boating safety campaign ban alcohol on boats?
    No. Designated Operator is a totally voluntary awareness program for boat operators. It’s sole purpose is to persuade a boat operator to voluntarily refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages or ingest substances that may impair his or her ability to safely operator a boat.
  • Does this mean passengers on board a boat can’t drink alcohol either?
    No. Designated Operator does not prohibit non-operating passengers on a boat to drink. It only applies to the person who is responsible for operating the boat on that particular day.
  • If I rent a boat or PWC and receive an OUI (Operating Under the Influence), what may happen?
    First, you will be subject to possible penalties as prescribed by law for that offense including arrest. Secondly, the rental company may also impose additional financial penalties as well (possible automatic forfeiture of your rental deposit). Check with your rental company regarding their policy about operator OUIs
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Charters Available

More information about the Lake Havasu Marine Assocation approved charters coming soon.

"Designated Operators" Available for Hire

Hopping on a boat - whether your own or rented - is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Lake Havasu City. For the ultimate expierence of relaxation, peace of mind, forgo the lines at the launch ramp and the responsibility of navigating the craft around unfamiliar obstacles.

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The Lake Havasu Marine Association has developed a Designated Operator program, featuring Lake Havasu City experienced operators who will pilot your boat for you. They can also connect you with U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains aboard USCG certified boats to offer you a private charter experience. 

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The LHMA's mission is to instill awareness among recreational boaters that assigning the responsibility of a sober Designated Operator will significantly reduce the number of under-the-influence related boating accidents and fatalities on the water. Hiring a Designated Operator is far cheaper than being cited for an "OUI" (operating under the influence). More information can be found regarding OUI laws, including agency jurisdiction, checkpoints and penalties, by clicking here.

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For more information about the Designated Operator program, contact our Operations Manager Curt Conner via email opsmgr@lhma.net or by calling the Lake Havasu Marine Association phone line by calling 928-706-9656.

Request your designated operator by completing the form below. 

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