If you have a foreign vessel and want to use it in the United States, either for recreational or commercial use, you will need to apply for a MARAD waiver. That’s because the United States has protections that control access to business between domestic ports. Ships that were built outside of the country must have…
When you register your boat with the United States Coast Guard, having your social security number on hand is an important step in the process, as it’s used to establish your American citizenship. When you go through vessel documentation with the USCG registry, it can be done by an individual, corporation, or partnership, as well…
Whether you’re a seasoned boat owner or you’re buying your first watercraft, you are probably aware that there are quite a bit of rules and regulations that go along with owning a boat. Understanding them and being able to follow them is part of your responsibility, both on the water and when your boat is…
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…
Understanding the U.S. Coast Guard requirements and staying familiar with them is an important part of owning a boat. If you happen to get stopped while out on the water, which is usually a routine check, you will be required to produce documentation for your vessel, much like you do when pulled over on the…
Did you know that there are weight requirements for US-documented vessels? To be documented by the United States Coast Guard, your boat has to meet these weight requirements. If they are below the necessary weight, your vessel can still be registered, but will need to be done at the state level, rather than with the…
If you’re new to the world of boat ownership, you likely have lots of questions, including what is a HIN number. You are in the right place. This article will go over the basics so you understand what the number is and why it’s necessary. This number is unique to your vessel and will appear…
When you complete the documentation necessary to register your boat with the United States Coast Guard, you may be able to finance the vessel with a preferred ship mortgage. Much like the mortgage on your house, this allows you to make payments on your boat, which can make it a more achievable option for many…
Owning a boat is exciting, whether you’re new to it or you are buying your next new boat. Much like a car, truck, or SUV, it’s necessary to register your vessel and document it properly. That raises the question of whether it’s better to register a boat with Coast Guard or state documentation. The short…
Keeping your US Coast Guard documentation up to date is essential for vessel owners to maintain compliance and legal recognition. In this article, we will explore the importance of staying current with USCG documentation renewals and updates and how Vessel Documentation Online simplifies the process, ensuring a seamless experience. The Significance of USCG Documentation Renewals…