Fla. American Global Line was fined after the Independence and the Constitution dumped appliances and concrete in the Pacific in 1992 and 1993. Stricter laws and enforcement have helped, officials say. Fuel oil forms ugly tar balls on the beach, and it can coat birds' feathers. And sea creatures can die when they eat plastic. To report a problem, call the Coast Guard at 800 424-8802.
Vigilance can pay.
One couple videotaped a Regal Princess crew dumping trash overboard in 1991.