There is a set of USCG hailing port requirements that you should be aware of when you register your boat. Knowing what they are and how to comply with them is an important part of being a responsible boat owner. At the same time, it ensures that your documentation is current and accurate with the…
Sometimes damage happens to your boat, be it due to a collision, a natural disaster or other reasons. No matter the cause, you’re probably wondering what maritime documentation is required as you work through repairs, insurance claims and the other steps that go along with dealing with a wrecked vessel. If the boat is not…
Relinquishing a Coast Guard documented vessel is a legal process that varies based on the jurisdiction in which you reside and/or have your boat registered. Arrangements made by the owner of the boat also play a role in how to give up the vessel. Following the steps means the entire process will go smoother and…
Also called a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) or a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO), a builders certificate of a boat is a document that is issued in an official capacity by a boat manufacturer. The document proves the boat’s origin and is used for ownership and registration purposes. If you want to know more,…
Can you register a boat without a title? That’s a great question and you are in the right place to find out. It’s no secret that registering a boat is much easier when you have a title on hand, but it’s not impossible without one. If you have recently purchased a boat and there’s no…
Vessel documentation renewal is an important part of owning a boat and staying on top of it is a responsible step that you must be aware of. After all, if you don’t have the proper documentation on hand, you may find yourself facing fees and penalties that will keep you from enjoying your time on…
Unlike a road vehicle, a boat won’t necessarily depreciate in value as soon as it gets out on the water. Within 5 years, a boat’s value will decrease between 25 percent and 35 percent, as compared to a car, truck or SUV, which depreciates approximately 60 percent in that time frame. If you plan to…
If you carry passengers on your boat, there are some regulations that you are required to adhere to ensure their safety while on board your vessel. This includes a fishing vessel, as well as any other watercraft. Whether your boat is inspected or uninspected depends on the number of passengers you take on board. Using…
Then it comes to passenger boats, there are two classifications that are used, according to the US Coast Guard requirements. Those are inspected and uninspected. As the names imply, the former requires a regular inspection, while the latter does not. However, there are still legal requirements that an uninspected boat must adhere to. This guide…
Many prospective vessel buyers want to know the answer to, “do boats have VIN numbers?” It’s a great question and shows that you want to be a responsible boat owner. When you register your boat, much like when you register your vehicle, it is assigned a unique number that is used to identify it. This…