Does acquiring USCG vessel documentation seem complicated, or at least more complicated than it should be? Even though you know you have to get your vessel documented, have you found yourself putting it off? That’s perfectly understandable. As busy as we all are, it’s not always easy to carve out space in the day to…
When you own and operate a boat, you must adhere to USCG Boat Lettering Requirements, which detail how and where you need to display your boat number and name. Keep in mind that you can identify your boat as state-registered or federally registered, but not both. That means that if your boat is registered at…
Do you own a boat that you’re considering registering with the U.S. Coast Guard for the first time? If you’re new to filing for documentation with the National Vessel Documentation Center, it may seem like an intimidating process. The truth is, however, though there is some paperwork involved, the overall rewards of registering your boat…
The Midwest states offer several freshwater lakes where you can go to have fun on a boat. These lakes are perfect for water skiing, fishing or just cruising around. The NVDC recommends several lakes to go for boating in the Midwest. One of the lakes to consider is the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. It…
Every car owner or homeowner knows to check the history of the vehicle or building before making a financial commitment. This isn’t a good rule of thumb that’s exclusive to buying a car or home though, it applies to your vessel too! If you’re in the market for a vessel, whether it’s for commercial or…
USCG boat owners are responsible for educating themselves on the meaning of the term “documented vessel” and how it may affect them. “One that has been issued a marine document by the Coast Guard which evidences the boat’s nationality and compliance with relevant rules and regulations,” the United States Coast Guard (USCG) defines a documented…
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to US boat documentation, and the more well-informed you are, the better off you’ll be. It can be a bit overwhelming to complete your paperwork and that includes choosing which endorsement to choose. Understanding the endorsement process for your boat is important and this handy guide will…
Boat owners licensed by the United States Coast Guard should be aware of the distinction between a documented and undocumented boat. In contrast to an undocumented vessel, a documented vessel has been registered with the United States Coast Guard (USCG). In order to utilize your vessel on the sea, you must register it with the…
Did you know those small sailboat owners might qualify for a remission of the registration fee? Those who own small vessels are free from paying the yearly Restricted Area Clearance yearly under the Small Vessel MARAD Waiver. Small vessel owners will find the Small Vessel MARAD Waiver a valuable resource. This waiver relieves property owners…
Has the time come for you to document your vessel for the first time and you’re feeling a little unsure about the process? Do you feel that documenting your boat is the right course of action yet you’re still reticent to do so? If you’ve never documented a vessel before, it’s perfectly natural to be…