I keep my boat in a protected marina, outside of navigation channels, that has slips for about 700 boats. We recently had a boat enter the marina and anchor for 4 days and the boat was left unattended, i.e., left the boat and went elsewhere. When I asked the harbormaster about the legality of this, I was told tht the USCG had advised the marina that it was a public waterway and no rules could be issued denying anchoring in the marina.

Is this correct and are there any other rules/laws that might regulate this situation?

My primary concern in this matter is the possibility of the unattended boat dragging/losing anchor and damaging other boats/docks in a crowded environment.

Thank you,

George