sailboat hailing port

Documented Boat Name and Hailing Port

The US Coast Guard requires all Federally Documented vessels to be named with a designated hailing port. The name and hailing port selected by the Owner(s) will be officially marked on the ship’s papers ( CG-1270 Certificate of Documentation ) and must match the name and hailing port marked on the vessel. You may change name and hailing port of Documented vessels after filing the appropriate paperwork. The requirements are outlined below:

Selecting a Vessel Name

The Vessel Name must not exceed 33 characters; it (1) Must be composed of letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic or Roman numerals; (2) May not be identical, actually or phonetically, to any word or words used to solicit assistance at sea (e.g. Police Boat, Coast Guard, Mayday, Help, Rescue Me, On Fire, Sinking, I’ve Sunk, We’ve Capsized, Man Overboard); and (3) May not contain nor be phonetically identical to obscene, indecent, or profane language, or to racial or ethnic epithets. (46 CFR § 67.117)

Hailing Port

The hailing port of a boat is a designated location or place from which the vessel claims origin. This can be anywhere the vessel owner chooses, regardless if it is a coastal or landlocked location.

Selecting a Vessel Hailing Port (46 CFR § 67.119)

The hailing port must be a place in the United States included in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 55DC. The hailing port must include the State, territory, or possession in which it is located. The Hailing Port marked on a vessel does not have to be the physical location of the vessel, or where the vessel is registered; the owner may elect any hailing port they choose, granted it is an actual location in the United States.

If your vessel is not currently Documented by the US Coast Guard, you may apply with your vessel name and hailing port via the online webform below:

https://unitedstatesvessel.us/certificate-of-documentation/

If your vessel is currently Documented by the US Coast Guard and you wish to change the name or hailing port of your vessel, you may file the change via the online webform below:

https://unitedstatesvessel.us/vessel-name-hailing-port-change/

NOTE: If your vessel is subject to a mortage of record or lien, you MUST obtain written permission from the mortagee (bank or financial institution) in order to complete your vessel name or hailing port change.

Marking the Name and Hailing Port on your vessel (46 CFR § 67.123)

The markings may be made by the use of any means and materials which result in durable markings, must be made in clearly legible letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic or Roman numerals not less than four inches in height .

The name and hailing port of the vessel must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the stern of the vessel.

Christian & Co.

Proper hailing ports.

There are two ways to prove ownership of a US flagged vessel, Coast Guard documentation and state registration.  All vessels over 5 net tons are eligible for Coast Guard documentation and the form of ownership record or title is an owner’s choice.  Lenders generally insist on vessels being documented so they may be the subject of a Preferred Ship Mortgage.

Registered vessels must display the registration number and a current registration decal on both sides of the bow, while documented vessels must display the name and the hailing port on the transom or on both hull sides.

Naming a vessel can be a difficult decision, often reflecting a family member’s name or referencing the business of the owner in some clever way.  Less thought is put into the hailing port, but the hailing port is a choice.  It does not have to be the place where the boat is stored, where you live nor does it have to have any actual significance or relevance to your life.  What do you think are the parameters for choosing a valid hailing port?

Recently I have seen hailing ports including Huntington Harbor, Mission Bay and Surf City.  To my surprise Huntington Harbor and Mission Bay were both the hailing ports actually on the document.  The owner of the vessel with hailing port Surf City liked Huntington Beach’s “official” nickname, but he was not in compliance with federal regulations as the hailing port on the document did not match the hailing port on the transom.  As a result of these unusual haling ports, we researched the rules for hailing ports.

Throughout my career it had been my understanding that the hailing port had to be an actual city in the United States or a US territory.  Some had told me that a hailing port had to have a post office, but I had never researched the actual rule, and I wondered what made a location a “city”?

My thanks (and a belated Happy Birthday) to Bernadine Trusso of Dona Jenkins Maritime Document Service, Inc.  Bernadine discussed this issue with an officer in the Coast Guard and they confirmed that the website used by documentation personnel is https://geonames.usgs.gov/apex/f?p=138:1:0:::::

To determine if a location is a valid hailing port, click the “Query” tab, fill in the “feature name” and the “state” and then hit the “Send Query” tab.  If the feature name comes up as written, such as Point Loma, the location is a valid hailing port.  In the case of Point Loma the class is cape.  In the case of Mission Bay the class is bay and in the case of Leucadia the class is populated place.  The class of the location is irrelevant according to our source, as long as the feature name comes up as you have searched it, without additional words.

The name and the hailing port must be displayed externally on the vessel, either on both sides of the hull or on the transom.  The hailing port must include the place and a state, territory, or possession of the United States.  The state may be abbreviated.

We often find hailing ports without the necessary state, territory or possession included.  We often find names and hailing ports from prior documents, legally requiring modifications to the current documented name and hailing port.  We occasionally find registration numbers on documented boats (a no no), documentation numbers on the exterior of boats (unnecessary) or no identifying numbers, name or hailing port (begging to be boarded by the authorities).

Registered boats may have names and hailing ports, but these boat names are decoration, an expression of individuality, and can be changed at any time as they are not legally significant.  Based on my newly found resources, Huntington Harbor and Mission Bay are in fact valid hailing ports, but not Surf City and now you have the ability to be as creative with your hailing port as with your vessel’s name.

46 CFR § 67.123 - Name and hailing port marking requirements.

(a) For vessels other than those covered in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, the name of the vessel must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the port and starboard bow and the stern of the vessel . The hailing port of the vessel must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the stern of the vessel .

(b) Vessels with square bow. For vessels having a square bow, the name of the vessel must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the bow in a manner to avoid obliteration. The name and hailing port must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the stern.

(c) Recreational vessels. For vessels documented exclusively for recreation, the name and hailing port must be marked together on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull .

(d) The markings required by paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this section, which may be made by the use of any means and materials which result in durable markings, must be made in clearly legible letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic or Roman numerals not less than four inches in height.

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U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Documentation FAQs

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Wondering how to renew or document a vessel with the U.S. Coast Guard? BoatUS answers your most common questions on vessel documentation.

What is USCG vessel documentation?

Vessel documentation is the process of registering a boat with the U.S. Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center. Unlike state titling, USCG vessel documentation occurs at the federal level.

What is a USCG Certificate of Documentation?

A USCG Certificate of Documentation establishes the ownership and nationality of a vessel. Recreational vessels over five net tons have the option to document their vessel with the U.S. Coast Guard and obtain a Certificate of Documentation.

What are the benefits of Coast Guard vessel documentation?

There are three scenarios where you might want to document your recreational boat.

1. You plan to use your boat in international waters. A Certificate of Documentation is internationally recognized and makes it much easier for an American vessel to enter and leave foreign ports.

2. You don’t want to display state registration numbers for aesthetic reasons. A documented vessel does not display state registration numbers. Instead, they visibly display their name, hailing port, and are subject to Coast Guard lettering requirements .

3. You opted to finance your boat and the bank requires vessel documentation. Lenders will frequently require eligible vessels to have documentation because documented vessels qualify for preferred mortgages, and the Coast Guard cannot make changes in documentation (e.g., change of vessel ownership) without consent from the lender.

Can a boat be both titled and documented?

No. A documented vessel may not be titled by a state. However, some states may require documented vessels to maintain their state-level registration. Regardless of registration status, all vessel owners must comply with state laws and pay applicable state taxes.

Is my boat eligible?

To be eligible for U.S. Coast Guard vessel documentation, recreational vessels must be wholly owned by a U.S. citizen and measure a minimum of five net tons. Vessels greater than 27 feet are likely to meet the five net ton minimum requirement.

What does it cost?

As of January 2021, an initial Certificate of Documentation cost $133. A full schedule of fees and services is listed on the Coast Guard website.

Are vessel documentation services legitimate?

Be on the lookout for third-party companies selling vessel documentation and renewal services . While legitimate and legal, these companies are not endorsed by the Coast Guard. They also typically charge three times more than the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center.

How do I document a vessel with the USCG?

Boat owners can document their vessel or renew their Certificate of Documentation directly through the Coast Guard's National Vessel Documentation Center . Owners will generally need to submit:

• An application for documentation ( form CG-1258 )
• Proof of ownership (e.g., state title, state registration, form CG-1340 Bill of Sale, form CG-1261 Builders Certificate)
• An application for simplified measurement ( form CG-5397 ), if the vessel has not been previously documented

See the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center website for complete instructions, forms, pricing, FAQs and contact information.

How do I renew my USCG vessel documentation?

A renewal application can be made on the National Vessel Documentation Center's website . Expect to receive a notice of renewal from the Coast Guard, 45 days before expiration. 

The Coast Guard is currently transitioning from single-year renewal to five-year renewal.

From January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2021 renewal costs $26 a year and recreational boaters can select a validity period, from one to five years.

Beginning January 1, 2022 recreational Certificates of Documentation will only be issued for a validity period of five years. The new five-year documentation is the only renewal option available and is fixed at $130.

How do you transfer ownership of a documented vessel?

Once you’ve sold a documented vessel, there are a few important after-the-sale details to be aware of. For example, you must submit a U.S. Coast Guard Bill of Sale ( CG-1340 ) or fill out the Sale of Transfer of Vessel section on the back side of the Certificate of Documentation.

Source: NVDC FAQ page

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Changing Name of Boat and Hailing Port Explained

When you register your boat with the United States Coast Guard, it’s given a unique number that identifies it. While this number will stay with the boat, even if it’s sold, the name of the boat and its hailing port can be changed. Rules for Changing name of boat and hailing port can be a bit overwhelming, but this guide will help you understand the process so you can get it done quickly and efficiently. Remember that properly documenting your vessel is a federal requirement so being sure it’s correct will save you a lot of time, trouble and even money.

What Does it Mean to be a Documented Vessel?

A documented vessel is one that it registered with the United States Coast Guard, rather than being registered in the state. However, you can register your boat in both locations. Commercial vessels with a volume of 5 net tons or more must be registered with the US Coast Guard. Pleasure boats of at least 26 feet in length and a volume of 5 net tons must also be registered with the USCG. Upon registration completion, your boat will be given its identifying number. 

Where is the Name on a Boat

There are regulations regarding putting the name on a boat. If your boat already has a name that you are keeping, chances are it’s already displayed in the correct location. However, if you plan to change the name, you will need to know how and where to do so. Most importantly, the name must be displayed on the hull of the boat and must be easily visible. Some types of boats also display the name on both sides of the bow or stern. 

Where is the Hailing Port on a Boat?

Like the name of your boat, its hailing port must also be displayed somewhere visible on the exterior or the vessel. However, you can’t put it just anywhere. The hailing port must be in a visible location on the stern or both sides of the watercraft. It can also be marked on the hull. In both locations, the hailing port must be easy to read and be large enough to be seen by other boaters. 

What is a Hailing Port?

This is the port from which a documented vessel originates. This is often where the owner or managing agent of the boat lives but doesn’t have to be. Your hailing port can be anywhere and some boat owners choose states with regulations they can adhere to, while others choose a place where they use the boat to a large extent. Wherever your hailing port happens to be, it is required by the United States Coast Guard to have your hailing port displayed on the stern of your boat. You can liken the hailing port as the home for your boat. 

By: U.S. Vessel Documentation Center | September 3, 2023

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Everything You Need to Know About Hailing Ports

Hailing ports are where boats, and sometimes their owners, call home..

A hailing port, also known as a home port or port of registry, is the name of the city or locality that a boat is officially associated with. This serves as a point of reference for identification and registration purposes. Hailing ports are often accompanied by the vessel’s official number, which is used to distinguish it from other vessels. Choosing a hailing port is a common practice in the maritime world and adds an element of tradition and identity to a ship.

It is a United States Coast Guard requirement for every vessel registered to have an official hailing port. The port can be in any city or state in the US; it does not have to be where the owner of the boat lives. When a certificate of documentation is issued for the boat, the hailing port is also listed.

The choice of a hailing port is deeply personal and can be influenced by various factors. Many boat owners select a hailing port that is close to their home or a place that holds special meaning for them. This creates a sense of connection to their vessel. The hailing port can reflect the owner’s aspirations and lifestyle.

For example, someone who enjoys the vibrant nightlife of Miami may choose it as their hailing port, while a more reserved individual may opt for a quiet coastal town. Some hailing ports are steeped in maritime history, and choosing them is a way to pay homage to that tradition and be part of a community with similar interests. The visual and emotional appeal of a hailing port can be a significant factor. Owners often choose a port that aligns with the aesthetic they wish to convey through their vessel.

Some popular hailing ports are in Florida and in New England. Miami is a renowned home port because of its vibrant boating scene, pleasant weather all year, and luxury and leisure scene. Key West is often chosen as a hailing port for its laid-back vibe. Boat owners who want to evoke a sense of relaxation and a carefree lifestyle often opt for the Florida Keys.

Newport, Rhode Island is another popular spot because it is full of maritime history and is known for its sailing and yachting culture. Annapolis, Maryland, also a well-loved home port, is known as the “Sailing Capital of the World”–hence its popularity–and is also home to the United States Naval Academy. Nantucket, Massachusetts is renowned for its quintessential New England charm. Boat owners with Nantucket as their home port often exude an aura of classic elegance as well as have a love for historic coastal towns.

Hailing ports are more than just a point of reference on a boat’s hull; they are an expression of identity and a connection to the maritime world. Whether it’s the glamour of Miami, the sailing heritage of Newport, or the tranquility of Nantucket, hailing ports allow boat owners to convey their personality and aspirations. These ports not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the rich tapestry of maritime culture and tradition.

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F ederal Code of Regulations, Title 46, Chapter 1, Subchapter G, Part 67 Say what? This is a diatribe thoughtful discussion about vessel hailing ports displayed on the stern of boats. Before I pontificate opinion, perhaps a quick review of the applicable federal law would be helpful. Disclaimer: I have condensed the Federal Code of Regulation verbiage to facilitate understanding and easy reading. If after reading this, you have the inclination to peel the onion further, I encourage you to seek and read the actual regulations. Anyway… Four hailing ports. Two are legit hailing ports. Two have names blurred out to protect those that may not yet know they are nautical miscreants. The law regarding hailing ports Federal law requires all documented vessels to designate and display a hailing port. Upon application for any Certificate of Documentation, the owner of the vessel must designate a hailing port to be marked upon the vessel. The hailing port must be a place in the United States included in the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 55DC. A hailing port cannot be another planet in a far far-away galaxy or a favorite crater on the moon. Also, the hailing port must include the State, territory, or possession in which it is located. Down the rabbit hole of name management Processors in the National Documentation Center query a United States Geodetic Service website to determine if a hailing port is valid. Names of places are managed by the United States Board on Geographic Names ( BGN ). The BGN is a Federal body created in 1890 and established in its present form by Public Law in 1947 to maintain uniform geographic name usage throughout the Federal Government. I am really sorry I wrote that. Apologies. But, now you know how names are managed. Anyway, back to hailing ports… Back out of the rabbit hole The Director, National Vessel Documentation Center has final authority to settle disputes as to the propriety of the hailing port designated. A Certificate of Documentation will only be deemed valid for operation of the vessel after the vessel is marked in accordance with requirements. Meaning, improper display of hailing port name invalidates the documentation certificate. Having the documentation paperwork is not enough. The documentation paperwork is only valid if the vessel is properly marked. These are proper hailing ports. A proper hailing port has that ingredient that boats prefer – it’s on the water. Name and hailing port marking requirements For documented recreational vessels, the name and hailing port must be marked together on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull. For documented non-recreational vessels, the name must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the port and starboard bow, and the stern of the vessel. The hailing port of the vessel must be marked on some clearly visible exterior part of the stern of the vessel. Although way cool, names on the booms do not satisfy marking requirements. The boom is not the hull. The official number marking requirement for documented boats The official number of the vessel, preceded by the abbreviation “NO.” must be marked in block-type Arabic numerals not less than three inches in height on some clearly visible interior structural part of the hull. The number must be permanently affixed to the vessel so that alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious. This ain’t pretty, but these numbers (in an engine room) are indeed “permanently affixed to the vessel so that alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious.” I see many boats with the official number displayed on a salon bulkhead. Technically, this practice invalidates the certificate of documentation and even might result in a fine if boarded by authorities. If the vessel is being sold, a surveyor (in a bad mood) could find the vessel documentation invalid/none if the vessel is improperly marked. From the lenders or insurers perspective, invalid documentation could jeopardize the sale. Now The Opinion/Rant The hailing port is for the vessel. NOT THE OWNER . Hailing ports are intended to identify the current operational port of the vessel. If you are from landlocked inland Caryville, but your boat is from Beaufort, the hailing port on your boat should be Beaufort. It’s nice that you are proud to be a Caryville resident, but there are better ways to display that. An embroidered cardigan could allow you to display your Caryville pride. Also, the authorities do not care where you grew up or where you spent the majority of your adult life. (Schwenksville, Pennsylvania is never going to be my boat’s hailing port.) Simply put, a transom is not a billboard for displaying the location of the owner’s residence. NOT hailing ports."> These may be city names. They are written on the stern. They are NOT hailing ports. Bottom line: The nautical authorities want to look at the vessel and know where it operates from. Period. If the vessel is moored in Whortonsville, the hailing port on the stern should read Whortonsville. Oriental is Oriental. New Bern is New Bern. Furthermore If a vessel is not documented but only registered, vessel name and hailing port marking requirements are legally wide open. But, the above opinion still applies. And boat etiquette still matters. Sure, even if your hailing port says “Caryville” folks will still be nice to you at the marina. But, behind your back, there may be knowing snickers. End of rant. Next month is flag etiquette. Overwhelming anticipation I am sure. Can you wait? Fair Winds, Captain John Rahm Related Links •  Death, Taxes, and Registration • To Document Or Not $(document).ready(function() { $(".fancybox").fancybox({ openEffect : 'fade', closeEffect : 'fade' }); $(".fancybox").fancybox({ helpers : { title: { type: 'inside' } } }); });

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How to Change Vessel Name and Hailing Port with NVDC (Explained)

How do I change the hailing port on a documented vessel? How do I change my boat name with the Coast Guard? – We answer these right here!

• Post author By Abstracts Experts
• Post date March 7, 2022

Changing your Vessel Name and Hailing Port for Coast Guard documented boats

Table of Contents

When a boat is documented at the US Coast Guard, it has a unique official number that stays with it for life but the vessel name and hailing port can be changed. In this article, we will explain how to change your vessel name and hailing port.

Although many vessel owners see this process as stressful and long, it can be seamless and fast if you use a broker or know the steps. On this note, let’s understand what a United States Coast Guard documented vessel is all about.

What is a USCG Documented Vessel?

It is a type of vessel that is fully registered with the Federal Government through the United States Coast Guard ( NVDC office ), instead of being titled or registered by a state. Commercial vessels of 5 net tons must be documented and pleasure vessels of 5 net tons or above 26ft must be documented. For a full explanation see What is USCG Documentation for Vessels | Must know 2022 .

Where is the Vessel Name Displayed on a Boat?

One of the numerous requirements of the USCG is that a vessel name must be placed on the exterior part of the hull and must be visible. Some recreational vessels often position the vessel name on both sides of the bow or at the stern. You should also learn How to Name your Boat the RIGHT way.

Where is the Hailing Port Displayed on a boat?

The hailing port of most commercial vessels must be clearly defined and must be placed on the stern or both sides of the vessel. It can also be marked on the exterior part of the hull and should be clear and easy to identify. Read more about How and Where to display USCG Vessel Number .

What is a hailing port?

A USCG vessel hailing port is the name of a port where a documented vessel originates/hails. This home port of the vessel is usually the port in which the managing owner of the vessel lives (nearest to his place of residence). This is very crucial and it’s required by the US Coast Guard law to be painted on the stern of the documented vessels in the USA.  In other words, as a home is to an individual, so does hailing ports means to a vessel.

As a vessel owner, you need to identify your home address or location as part of the vessel documentation. In simple terms, a hailing port is the nearest port closer to the vessel owner or managing owner. It is the home port of a vessel. It is very important to register your vessel and get hold of the ideal documents for future purposes.

Is Hailing Port Required on Boat?

It is compulsory. The United States federal law requires all documented vessels to display a hailing port. A vessel owner must assign a hailing port to be marked in your vessel once you apply for COD (Certificate of Documentation) from the USCG.

Why Should You Put a Home Port on Boat?

This is not optional. It is a major requirement to display a hailing port with the United States Coast Guard. You can choose any U.S. state or city as your hailing port while filling out the CG-1258 application form for vessel documentation . Documented vessel hailing port letter size should be 4 inches and readable from a distance.

Steps to change the vessel name and hailing port

Below are the steps you need to know for how you can change your vessel’s name and hailing port.

1. Make A Decision to Change Your Vessel Hailing Port

One thing you must understand is that the hailing port of a vessel determines the rules and regulations that govern your vessel. You must abide by these rules. Just like vehicle registration, where you register will determine where you should pay tax. This is why it’s always important to register your vessel to the hailing port closer to your residential address.

2. Decide to Choose a Fresh Name For Your Vessel

You don’t have to worry about choosing a unique name for your vessel. You can name your boat, with the boat name you like. You can name your boat after the things that give you joy or attraction. Remember, it’s the only standard alpha and numeric characters you can add to the vessel name. There are some rules to name your boat right .

3. Obtain the Right Information

Get the proper documentation once you have decided to change the hailing port and name. Do ensure you have the right knowledge to help you through the process. The major things you need here are your boat’s official number, vessel name, and the current vessel hailing port . You will also be required to provide the new owner’s name, social security number, tax ID number, and contact information.

4. Fill Out the Required Forms

Now that you have the required information, fill out the CG-1258 form in the appropriate sections. Once you are done filling out the forms. Make sure you cross-check what you have done before you need to send the form to the USCG.

• Vessel name change Instructions :
• Return existing Certificate of Documentation if available.
• Checks and money orders payable to U.S. Coast Guard, or credit card payments with accompanying CG-7042 Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. (Fees are non-refundable as per 46 CFR 67.500(d).)
• Documents may be mailed to the NVDC or sent via e-mail to: [email protected].

What is the home port of a boat? And is it different from the hailing port?

They are different names for the same thing; the home port of a boat is not different from the hailing port. As earlier stated, the hailing port is the place you the vessel owner call home. Since you are the boat owner, you need to write your home address as part of the vessel documentation requirement. The port is the place you originate from.

Vessel Name Search

If you are looking for search for boats using their vessel name, try our free lookup tool here . You can query any vessel name that is documented.

Conclusion – updating Vessel Name and Port

On the final note, we have explained what is a hailing port and the location of a vessel name on the bow. We explained how to change it using the NVDC form.

Boat Lettering

Custom boat lettering and striping designs since 1993.

USCG Requirements

• Vessels may only be identified as either a State Registered Vessel or a Federally Documented Vessel – NOT BOTH.
• When a vessel becomes federally Documented, the State Registration Numbers and Letters must be removed.
• The State Validation Sticker showing proof of paying sales tax may still be displayed on the vessel in accordance with the individual state’s regulations.

State Registered Vessel Requirements

Character Requirements

• Letters & Numbers must be read from left to right.
• Characters must be at least Three (3) inches in height
• Characters must be of contrasting color to color of the boat Note: if the background is multicolored or patterned, a block out area of a single color may be required to facilitate readability.
• Characters must be separated by the width of one letter or number – not including the number one (1) or capital letter (I). Note: Use either a blank space or a hyphen. Validation sticker must be visible and placed within six inches of the registration numbers. Placement either in front of or behind the numbers is determined by state regulation.

Placement Requirements:

• The Registration Numbers, Letters, and Sticker must be permanently attached and on the forward half of the vessel.
• Adhering registration numbers and stickers on glass or plastic windows or using placards (signboards) are NOT considered permanent and can no longer be used unless they are bolted or screwed in place on the hull or superstructure (including on dinghy).
• Bolted signboards cannot be attached to railings.
• Inflatable boat manufacturers should be contacted for letters and numbers made of the same material/adhesive as the boat to attain permanency.
• Validation stickers issued by states can be adhered to metal or plastic plates and mounted on grab straps with nonreversible wire ties, but must be within 6 inches of the registration number and visible to law enforcement officers.
• Contact your state for guidance and acceptability.

Federally Documented Vessel Requirements

Character Requirements:

• Can be made by the use of any means and materials which result in durable markings.
• The application for documentation must include a name for the vessel composed of letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic or Roman numerals and may not exceed 33 characters. The name may not be identical, actually or phonetically, to any word or words used to solicit assistance at sea; may not contain or be phonetically identical to obscene, indecent, or profane language, or to racial or ethnic epithets.
• Must not be less than four (4) inches in height (all characters).
• Can be on the transom or either side of the vessel.
• The vessel must have the official number permanently affixed in block-type Arabic numerals of not less than 3 inches in height, preceded by the letters “NO .” on some clearly visible interior integral structural part of the vessel.
• The “hailing port” must include a place and a State, Territory, or possession of in the United States. The state may be abbreviated.
• Note: There is no requirement for block letters or any other restrictions to type, font, or color for federally documented vessels.

Placement & Additional Requirements:

• The name and hailing port of a recreational vessel must be marked together on some clearly visible exterior part of the hull.
• Many recreational vessels will place the vessel name and hailing port on the stern, and vessel name on both sides of the bow, which is required for a commercial vessel. Although not required for a recreational vessel, this is an acceptable option.
• The above requirement for vessel name and hailing port to be CLEARLY VISIBLE may necessitate duplicating the name and hailing port on either side of the hull.
• When dinghies are stored on the swim platform or transom causing the Vessel’s name and hailing port to be obscured from view, there is no Federal requirement to place the name and hailing port elsewhere. That is a Law Enforcement issue only.
• Stenciling on the bottom of the dinghy is not considered a permanent marking.
• Federal Vessel Documentation is a federal issue and is not open to enforcement or interpretation by the state.

For more information visit the National Vessel Documentation Center Above reviewed by the United States Coast Guard office of Boating Safety on 12/16/04

Purchase a Hailing Port Now Purchase State Registration Numbers Now

I just bought a boat-having a decal (boat name) made for on the transom. just for recreational use. must I have this documented,registered ??

In the states…Registered at least with your state which issues annual tabs, like a license plate that shows you’re up to date with the fees.

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Home » Home » U.S. Coast Guard Rescues Three People on 49-Foot Sail Boat Disabled Off Port Canaveral

U.S. Coast Guard Rescues Three People on 49-Foot Sail Boat Disabled Off Port Canaveral

By Space Coast Daily  //  April 30, 2024

boat crew safely towed the vessel to Jetty Park

BREVARD COUNTY • PORT CANAVERAL, FLORIDA – A United States Coast Guard boat crew aided 3 people aboard a 49-foot disabled sailing vessel off Port Canaveral, Florida, on Saturday around 2 a.m.

The boat crew safely towed the vessel to Jetty Park.

Commercial salvage was unable to assist due to unsafe weather conditions.

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Port Of Call lettering

• Thread starter Bill Cooper
• Start date Jan 27, 2004
• Forums for All Owners
• Ask All Sailors

Bill Cooper

We've selected a name and applied it to the sides of our sailboat, and would now like to add the "port of call" lettering to the transom. What is considered the proper name to display at that location - the name of the city in which we actually live, or the name of the city in which our marina is located? We see the names of many different cities on the transoms of boats that "live" in our marina, many of those cities landlocked and obviously not "where they used to be berthed". Are there legal considerations, traditions, or just the whim of the owners that weigh in on this decision?  

Is your boat documented? If documented by the USCG, then you must use the port that the boat resides. If you use only state registration, then I believe you can use any city you choose in most states.  

Can be anyplace, water not required Link is to USCG Documentation center. You can home port it anyplace that's not obscene, profane or resembles emergency hailing. So you can't homeport or name the vessel "mayday" but you can use your residence on land as the homeport.  

Together and I quote, "The name and hailing port of a recreational vessel must be marked together ,,,"If the boat is documented and you encounter a law enforcement official who is a stickler for details you will learn that the name on the side and the hailing port on the transom is NOT considered "together." I have first-hand experience.If, on the other hand, you are not documenting, I think it looks just fine to do the name on the sides and the hailing port on the transom.  

Why not post the Name as well as Hailing Port on the transom?  

Current CA Fashion ...at least down south on newer boats (particularily those with open transoms, Gord) is to put the name on the side and hailing port on the transom. The hailing port no longer needs to be where the boat was documented. I would recommend your harbor. It is what people expect, and dockmasters and the such use. Besides, it's more fun to figure out where the new boat comming into the anchorage hails from rather than where the owner lives. Some people (me) put the YC burgee and letters on the transom too. Rick D.  

Chris Burti

NO-NO-NO They may be doing it this way, but it is definitely not legal and you can be cited (although I've never heard of anyone being cited). I checked directly with the CG documentation office and was told that they had to be together. If you want them on the side you will have to put the hailing port on at least one side or do as I did. I put the name on both sides in large letters and on the the transom with the hailing port (in minimum size letters). I've got a Cat 320 and it worked out pretty well.  

Larry and Chris Of course you are correct and thank you for pointing that out. Having said that, the custom is what it is and probably 20% of the sail boats follow this template (and about 75% of new). Remember that this was a lot more important when everything was paper and there were strict rules on hailing ports. Frankly, it's not even relevant now, nor is the name as much as the documentation number. As you point out, I suspect it is so far down the priority list, it never sees day. BTW, I and many others have been through many a CG exam w/o this being an issue. Rick D.  

Hailing port? Name & Port together? So if you move your boat every couple years to a different marina, ie Chesapeake, NJ shore ect., I guess you strip the old hailing port off, compound the shadowing out and repaint it. "Must be displayed together." How far apart is no longer together with a sugar scoop transom? At some point reasonable has to kick in, doesn't it? I would consider the name on the stern side and the hailing port on the transom 4' away together. Bet ya there is more than 4' between them on the ships. Most documented recreational boats with the cut out transom are going with the name on the side stern and the hailing port on the transom.  

Murphy was a real person. He was an engineer involved in the rocket sled tests. Experience has taught me that he likely was an optimist. The regs are what they are. The Coasties have an official interpretation of what 'together' means in the sailboat context, I took the time to email an inquiry and get it directly from the horse's, hmmm, one end or the other. If you have the bad luck to be boarded by one having a bad day, no 'logic' is going to disuade them from citing you and it will be an expensive lesson. Tradition, neccessity, even foolishness carry no weight here. After mentally grumbling about all those issues myself, I decided to play it safe and it turned out looking pretty good. The added benefit is that the name will show up well in pictures of her rafted up <grin>.On a related theme, we had a discussion on the Catalina 320 list about where to put the documentation numbers for those who did not like them in the salon. The cockpit locker is approved by the CG, with the qualification that it must be readily visible when you open the locker. I keep a copy of that email on my boat on the assumption that some officious boarder will have their own interpretation.  

If on One Side It should be on the Port side as that is the side the Coast Guard will aproach on. I am not sure it meets the requirements seems it should be on both sides to me. A call to your local Coast Guard Station may be a good idea as they are the ones you are most likely to come in contact with. Make a note of the name who you spoke with in case another Coastie has a different opinion.  

Hailing port (documented) I think Rick Dinon does not quite understand "documented" hailing ports and what documentation is all about and its rules. On a documented vessel the hailing port may identify a vessel of the same name but of other hailing ports for I.D. There are no duplicate name and hailing ports of documented vessels. To change a hailing port on a documented vessel requires a bit of paper work with the documentation office and a fee involved. ON A DOCUMENTED VESSEL YOU CANNOT CHANGE HAILING PORT WITHOUT PERMISSION!!!!!!!! Maybe Rick reads documentation as registration / documents?I enjoy having documentation as I don't have to put the state numbers on my bow or any where else as you would non documented vessels.The hailing port is a very important identifier to the agencies involved. If you have changed the hailing port of a documented vessel without following protocol you may put a routine courtesy inspection into a suspicious non routine stop by the officers involved....they won't have a sense of humor as they are part of the "Homeland Security".Al M. reply has a USCG link the well explains any questions you all may have.  

while in the process of documenting my boat I read that if you are caught with a port of call different from the port of call listed with the CG it is a $10,000 fine PER DAY! it may not be enforced but, I wouldnt be the one to chance it.  

Tim are you *sure* there are no duplicate name and hailing ports of documented vessels.Take a look herehttp://www.st.nmfs.gov/st1/commercial/landings/cg_vessel2.htmlThere are about 6 "tranquility"'s from New York, NY.I'm sure that there are some even more popular name with duplicate's. Click on the link below for more Documented Vessel Query's But I think it would be even more rare to have the exact same type "boat" AND "year" AND "name" AND "hailing port". But it is not impossibleI do agree with your statement "ON A DOCUMENTED VESSEL YOU CANNOT CHANGE HAILING PORT WITHOUT PERMISSION"  

resons to document? Are there Tax issues with documentation? (like a break).how about insurance?I typically only LARGE vessels documented.(you dont buy a state licence, correct?)  

Tim. What I Meant Was What I was referring to regarding the flexibility in 'hailing port' designations was this: in decades past, my recollection is that the hailing port was actually where the CG regional office was. It did not necessarily conform to your marina. It is my understanding that aspect is what changed, and you can now select your 'hailing port' location. Maybe some other old timer can true that up; my memory may be flawed. (BTW, of course I agree you can't just change the hailing port. You must go through the CG application process.) Rick D.  

uscg I saw in a post that there are serveral opions and one of you said you contacted the uscg doc office. If you call back you will probably get a different answer from every person there you talk to. I am still waiting on my documentation papers from them. They told me I was not allowed to use my boat until I recieved the papers. Well I bought my boat may 2nd of last year and am still waiting. There was a supposable lien on my boat. The folks at the doc center said they had never recieved proof that the lien was satisfied. My personal opinion is that they don't have enough help and keep putting out fires with gasoline. The bank had showed proof that the lien was satisfied. Anyhow I'm still sailing....  

The answer is prestige Bill Bill Cooper never mentioned anything about documented boats. He just saw boats with home ports far from any body of water. Boat owners that keep their boat in lowly Detroit like to put Birmingham or West Bloomfield MI on their transom. Two communities that have much more prestige. People like to put the city where they live as a home port rather than the boat yard where the boat is moored. I would rather be having fun racing someone and notice he is from the same port and maybe look him up after we got in. How can I do that if his home port is 150 miles away from any water.  

Reason to Document If you finance your boat, the finance company will require you to document with the coast guard. It protects them and you. Coast guard documentation is much like title insurance on land - it researches the vessel and will discover if there has been a lien placed against the boat.  

Prestige? This is the Huntalina board, isn't it? Documentation is done to beat the sales tax and state registration, right?  

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Port Fairy residents reminiscence origins of 1950s pioneering fishing boat, Tacoma

When the grand old wooden fishing boat Tacoma returned home to Port Fairy, its skipper Ross Haldane was transported back 72 years.

The 76-year-old grandfather was one of the seven children onboard when the boat left in the early 1950s destined for South Australia to bolster the state's growing fishing industry.

"I remember the boat going into its first big waves — we quickly ran down into the galley and watched the waves from there," Ross said.

His brother, Roger Haldane, was six and a half years old.

"It was quite a bad day, like a big roll on," Roger said.

"People I've talked to since, that saw her leaving, going through their mind was, 'We'll never see them again.'"

Ross and one of the original crew members, 90-year-old Jack Bellamy, made the return trip this year aboard the Tacoma from Port Lincoln to Port Fairy, where it arrived on March 25.

To welcome the 25.6-metre boat home, the mouth of the Moyne River was dredged and 14 tonnes of ballast was trimmed to lighten the vessel, reducing its draught to make the journey upstream.

Tacoma Preservation Society president Ross Haldane said the moment was not just significant for his family, but the town.

His father Bill, and uncles Alan and Hughie, built the boat from 1944 when the first delivery of logs from the Otway Ranges arrived.

Jack Bellamy and his twin brother, Keith, who were both on the 1952 voyage, had watched from the kitchen window as the boat was built.

"You'd see the boat growing and all the framework going up, all the ribs and everything, and it was an amazing job to think what they did, the three brothers," Jack said.

A pioneering vessel

The Tacoma helped pioneer the Australian bluefin tuna industry in the 1950s and the Spencer Gulf prawn fishery out of Port Lincoln, South Australia.

"It's quite possible, if Victoria would have backed the Haldane brothers, there would have been some major fisheries developed here," Roger said.

The three Haldane brothers had built smaller vessels before attempting to build the Tacoma with the aim of accessing deeper water to catch tuna.

By the time it launched, however, the boat had a different fate.

The Haldanes ran out of money and were unable to get funding in Victoria.

The South Australian government provided a £20,000 loan (the former Australian currency) to finish the boat on the proviso it moved interstate.

"By knocking back my father and his brothers … South Australia stepped in and picked up the baton and so Victoria literally missed the boat," Roger said.

The Haldane brothers, with their young families, the Bellamy twins, and two cats and a dog, departed Port Fairy on January 6, 1952.

Ross Haldane said when the family departed, the town had about the same size fishing fleet as Port Lincoln.

There is not much of commercial fishing fleet left there today, unlike Port Lincoln.

"Port Lincoln is the seafood capital of Australia, and we catch something like 70,000 tonnes, which is about 20 per cent of all fish in Australia," Ross said.

'I had to get my hanky out'

Retired Warrnambool butcher Trevor Dowie saw the Tacoma leave Port Fairy in 1952 and was there to welcome it home in March.

"It was like the Titanic going out the river, it seemed so big," Mr Dowie said.

Portland fishing historian Garry Kerr said the Tacoma was among Australia's top 20 heritage vessels.

"She's been beautifully maintained and she's quite unique in that regard in as much as most vessels have hard times before anyone realises they should have been kept," he said.

"It was wonderful to see it coming up the river today back to her home port, where she was launched 72 years ago.

"I was getting a bit emotional. I had to get my hanky out."

The Tacoma welcomed about 1,000 visitors on board at Port Fairy for tours of the historic boat before returning to Port Lincoln on April 6.

The Haldane family gave the boat to the Tacoma Preservation Society nine years ago when it was retired from the commercial fishing fleet.

Each season it takes tourists tuna fishing from Port Lincoln, more than 700 kilometres or 400 nautical miles from its original home.

Port Lincoln man Andy Haldane has spent more time on the Tacoma than any other family member, fishing for prawns in the Spencer Gulf for 43 years.

He was at Port Fairy to catch the ropes and help tie the boat up.

"There's not many boats that come back to their original home port after 70 years or something … it was a pretty big deal, you know, emotional," Andy said.

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