Have you ever really wondered what is the difference between a boat and a ship? A major part of what we want our National Documentation Portal to be is a resource. We want our site to be somewhere where vessel owners can come to learn about vessel phrases and jargon so that they know everything…
When February comes to an end and gives way to March, in most of North America, that means that spring is right around the corner. Sure, there will be exceptionally cold days, but the sun will start to come out more often, too, and for longer, as well. That’s the kind of thing that can…
It seems that it is time to process your vessel documentation renewal, but you are unsure of when this should take place. Did you attempt to go through the procedure of renewing your Coast Guard paperwork but found it to be too time-consuming and so put it off until later? It’s crucial to keep your…
The US Coast Guard and Documenting Boats You have worked hard all your life, and are now ready to invest money in one of your big dreams. Buying a luxury vessel has been something that you have been imagining for a while, and now you are able to put down the money required. If you…
Just as is the case when you own a car, there are rules and regulations that you have to follow when you own a boat. The rules go beyond what safety steps you must follow on the ship or when you are on the water. Like you need to have a license plate on your…
In addition to posting access to USCG forms, we try to help our readers with different boating tips, too. You know to wear a personal flotation device and to have one (that fits) for everyone on board. You also know to have a boating plan, which you give to someone on land. That way, should…
Are you in the process of selling your documented vessel? Or, are you bringing someone else onto the ownership team? Alternatively, is it time for someone to move on from co-owning the vessel with you? Vessel documentation can be a complex web of paperwork and legalities. In response to frequent inquiries from our valued customers,…
If you’re a US vessel owner, you know it’s essential to file a Notice of Claim of Lien (NOCL) whenever work is done on your boat. The boat owner is usually responsible for paying for necessary repairs or replacement of any equipment on board in case of an accident or casualty. If the vessel is…
Are you thinking of buying a boat? If so, it’s essential to do your homework first. Boat ownership can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a big responsibility. Size, boat type, and intended use are just a few factors to consider before making such a significant investment. You should also factor in the…
So what is a preferred ship mortgage? It is a type of mortgage that protects you as the lender. Maritime liens other than preferred Maritime Liens do not prioritize First Preferred Ship’s Mortgages, which are lodged against vessels registered with the United States Coast Guard. A First Preferred Ship’s Mortgage is a mortgage recorded against…