Steve, you are looking at an American incident with a foreign socialist attitude.
In America we believe in individual rights and free will of citizens.
Our government is supposed to work FOR us, not treat us like children.
We don't restrict all Americans because of a few idiots.
We pay taxes to provide police, fire departments, Coast Guard, etc, etc, instead of sending someone a bill when their services are needed.

If there had been a grounding or other monetary damage, the injured party would be able to seek restitution in court.

I have never heard of anyone being stopped by any government agency from sailing offshore, provided they had the required safety equipment.
I live on the Atlantic coast and I don't need permission from ANYONE to launch my boat and head out into the ocean.