What is Vessel Documentation?
Vessel Documentation is a federal form of vessel registration which is offered only to United States citizens for vessels of 5 net tons or more.  Pleasure vessel owners can choose either state registration or Vessel Documentation.  However, commercial vessels measuring over 5 net tons must be documented.  The Coast Guard issues a Certificate of Documentation to each qualifying vessel.  This instrument provides conclusive evidence of the vessel's nationality, as well as clearly identifying the vessel name, hailing port, measurements, and ownership information.

What are the benefits of Vessel Documentation?
Many vessel owners enjoy the ease of clearing the various foreign ports when carrying a Certificate of Documentation.  A federally documented vessel is not subject to an annual renewal fee.  In addition, some vessel owners value the privacy of marking the documentation number on the interior of the hull, rather than having a registration number marked on the exterior of the hull.  In a financing situation, many lenders prefer that the vessel be documented in order to secure their interest with a Preferred Ship Mortgage. 

Why should I retain the services of a vessel documentation service?
The vessel documentation process can sometimes be cumbersome and could interfere with your precious boating time.  A vessel documentation service has trained personnel to weave through some of the intricacies of preparation and filing of paperwork.  If your vessel is financed, a lender may rely on a vessel documentation service to prepare and file the Mortgage.

Does the vessel's name need to be unique?
No. You may choose any name for your boat as long as it does not rhyme with "MAYDAY" or is considered profane.

What is a Hailing Port and how do I choose one?
A Hailing Port is your choice of city to be marked on the vessel.  You can choose any city in the United States as prescribed in the U.S. Dept. of Commerce's Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 55DC.  You must display it on the outside of your vessel in compliance with prescribed instructions. (see Official Number and Hailing Port Regulations)

Is a documented vessel exempt from paying state sales tax?
In some cases a vessel owner may be exempt from the payment of state sales tax.  A vessel owner should seek the advice of an accountant or contact a particular state's taxing authority.  In the State of California, a vessel owner can call the State Board of Equalization at 916-445-9524

Need Insurance? Mexico paperwork? Marine Financing? Maritime Attorney? Give us a call at (949) 646 5917, The Mary Conlin Company will be happy to help.