Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing criticism for a recent photo that appears to show them violating California law by not having their daughter Princess Lilibet wear a life jacket on a moving boat.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, the Duchess of Sussex shared a heartwarming montage of family moments, including a picture of Harry affectionately holding Lilibet, who is three, aboard a vessel.
The young girl was dressed in a bright pink T-shirt and floral leggings, while Harry, in relaxed attire with a backwards baseball cap and shorts, kissed her on the head.
In California, where the couple resides, regulations require that children under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times while on a moving boat. These life jackets must be Coast Guard-approved and suitable for the child’s size and the activity.
There are a few exceptions, including scenarios where children are tethered to a sailboat by a harness, are within an enclosed cabin, or are on board during an emergency rescue.
The photograph sparked outrage among fans on social media, with many expressing concern over Lilibet’s lack of a life jacket.
One user noted, “A child on a boat without a life jacket makes me cringe. We’ve had several drownings in our state for that very reason.” Another commented, “How irresponsible. Even pet owners put life vests on their pets when riding in boats.”
However, others defended the couple, suggesting that the circumstances might not be as alarming as they seem. “They may be tied up at the dock,” one commenter wrote. It’s possible that the couple was moored when the photo was taken, and there’s even a chance it was captured during their vacation in Costa Rica in late 2023.
In the UK, where the family has ties, there is currently no legal requirement for children to wear life jackets on boats, although it is strongly advised.
