ADVANTAGES OF DOCUMENTING A PLEASURE BOAT
- Only through "DOCUMENTATION" can one be assured of a complete record of ownership and recorded mortgages for a particular vessel.
- No number or name is required to be marked on the bow of a documented yacht, the NAME and HOME PORT need only be marked on the stern.
- This makes for a more elegant appearance.
- Documented yachts are not required to be "cleared" through Customs when departing for a foreign port; nor are they required to be "entered" when returning to a U.S. port from a foreign port.
- A Report of Departure or Arrival may simply be made by phone to the nearest customs office.
- Crew members employed on a documented vessel of the U.S. may be admitted to U.S. Public Health Service Hospitals in any port in the U.S. for treatment without charge.
- Complete records for documented vessels, as to their tonnage, power, construction, etc., are obtained prior to documentation and kept by the Department of Transportation (U.S. Coast Guard).
Requirements
The owner whether individual or corporation must be a resident / citizen of the U.S.
The vessel must have a min. net ton requirement set by the Coast Guard. Usually a boat must be over 26 Feet LOA to meet this requirement.
