(1) No person may operate any vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers in a manner that interferes with other vessels or with the free and proper navigation of the rivers of this state.

(2) Every operator of a vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers shall at all times operate the vessel in a careful and prudent manner and at such a speed as to not endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.

(3) No vessel carrying passengers for hire on whitewater rivers may be loaded with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity taking into consideration the type and construction of the vessel and other existing operating conditions. In the case of inflatable vessels, safe carrying capacity in whitewater shall be considered as less than the United States coast guard capacity rating for each vessel. This subsection shall not apply in cases of an unexpected emergency on the river.

(4) Individuals licensed under chapter 77.32 RCW and acting as fishing guides are exempt from RCW 79A.60.420 and 79A.60.460 through 79A.60.480.

Intent—1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.