Boat Name Database: Picking the Right Name for Your Vessel

Are you considering giving your vessel a new name? Maybe it’s for sentimental reasons, maybe you want to show off your creativity, or perhaps it’s just time for something new.  Whatever the reason, picking out the perfect boat name can be a fun experience if done correctly. After all, you don’t want something that will come off as tacky or inappropriate and get you into trouble with authorities! We help vessel owners like you to get on the boat name database and stay there. These are some tips to find the right name for your vessel. 

How to Choose a Boat Name

The name you choose will be the identity of your vessel and will, therefore, be an extension of your own personality. It’s important to choose a name that reflects you. You can take inspiration from your favorite songs, movies or books, or choose a name that holds special meaning to you, such as a family name or a significant event. A good rule of thumb is to choose a name that is easy to pronounce and spell. You know, from other vessels, boat names you like and boat names you don’t. 

Naming Tips from the USCG

The USCG has tips for boat owners when selecting a name for their vessel. Firstly, you can’t use names that could be deemed offensive or similar to emergency signals, such as “Mayday“. Additionally, you can’t use any name that could be considered obscene, indecent, racist, or the like. If you’re worried that a name you’re considering may violate these rules, use your common sense. This name is going to be associated with you. You don’t want something you’ll regret. 

Additionally, USCG guidelines state that boats can only have one name at a time and that the name must be displayed prominently on the vessel’s exterior. While these might seem like small details, they’re crucial for ensuring safety at sea and honoring the storied tradition of naval vessel naming. So, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just starting your boating journey, take some time to choose the perfect name that follows these important rules.

If You’re Stuck on Choosing a Boat Name

Words have the power to inspire, comfort, and empower. The right phrase can stick with us for a lifetime, becoming a mantra that we live by. Maybe it’s a quote from a favorite book, a line from a song that always lifts our mood or even a simple phrase that reminds us of someone we love. These meaningful and memorable words become a part of who we are, guiding us through tough times and reminding us of the light we carry within us. So take a moment to think of the phrases that hold a special place in your heart and let them guide you towards a life filled with purpose and passion.

Boat Name Database

Changing Your Vessel Name on the Boat Name Database and More 

If you’ve decided to alter your vessel’s name, you can do so through our site. So, if it’s time to move on, you can use the “Change of Vessel Name or Hailing Port” form at our site. Or, if you’re just registering your vessel, you can file your initial vessel documentation through us and choose your boat’s name. Good luck with your vessel!