serving alcohol on party barge, liability issues?

[Ann]

ok, we are renting this party barge to cruise Lake Travis (Austin) after UT grad. We were planning on a margarita machine and other drinks, but now I am feeling very apprehensive about it. What are my liabilities if we serve alcohol and some kid gets hurt or has a wreck later? Do I sit by the alcohol and monitor all? Stop serving hours before we disembark? We are having food, so I guess that helps, some.

This is meant to be just a fun, chill out, cut up day. Approx. 80 people on board. I''m a bit scared now.

 

[Gemklctr]

Unfortunately, there are a host of potential liability issues. In addition to the possible tort injury claims you raise, who is paying for/serving the alcohol and checking IDs? Are the guests contributing? Do you need a special liquor license for the event? Do you recall the problems that arose on the Minnesota Viking''s cruise? It would probably be worthwhile for you to have a consult with a local lawyer to answer these questions and any others he/she may raise.

At a minimum, I would check to see if you can get event liability insurance under your homeowners policy - which is also a good idea for people hosting large gatherings such as weddings!

 

[Ann]

Good idea about the event liability insurance, thanks!