Most boats have a name and if you’re not familiar with the boat name database, this article can help. If you register your boat with the United States Coast Guard, the vessel’s name and hailing port will be used on your registration documentation. If you are naming a new boat or changing the name of your current boat, the database can help you see which names are already used, which is especially important if they have a trademark that restricts the usage of all or part of the name. Keep reading to find out what you need to know about naming your boat.
Registering Your Boat’s Name
The specific document is called the CG-1270 Certificate of Documentation and is something you should have a copy of in a safe place on your boat. If you register your boat at the state level, you are not required to register the name. However, it’s still important to keep the registration documentation close at hand on your vessel, should you be boarded and need to produce proof of ownership.
Displaying Your Boat’s Name
Your boat’s name will be on your United States Coast Guard registration paperwork, but it’s also important to display your boat’s name somewhere visible on the vessel itself. Your boat’s hull identification number is also required to be visible on the boat itself. The name should appear on the port and starboard bow, as well as the stern. The name must be large enough to see and contrast with the color of the boat. If you have a square bow, the name must be located somewhere it can be easily seen. For recreational vessels, the name must be clearly visible somewhere on the hull of the boat.
Choosing a Name for Your Boat
Your boat’s name is a fun way to display your personality or interests but can also be a good way to add some humor to your time on the water. Many people choose to call their vessel a water-related pun, while others name their boat after a person or place. You spent a lot of money on your boat so it makes sense that you want to choose the perfect moniker for it. If you’re having a hard time coming up with something, use the following tips to help you.
Simple & Unique – You want your boat’s name to be something unique, but not so complicated that you can’t remember it or that others can’t pronounce it. Keep it short and catchy.
Clean & Appropriate – Think about first impressions here. Choose a name that is classy that won’t be offensive to other boaters, especially those with children.
Have Fun – One of the best things about naming your boat is that you can have fun with it. Think of a good pun or use a play on words that speaks to your personality and hobbies.
Naming your boat isn’t something you should take lightly. When you have a moniker picked out, it’s time to use the US Vessel Documentation Center to get your paperwork completed and filed. Proper registration on the boat name database is important and when the time comes, call us and we’ll help you get started.
