When searching for a watercraft to purchase, you must consider the prerequisites established by the U.S. Coast Guard. When operating a watercraft on public waterways, the Federal Government has several stringent guidelines that must be followed. Before purchasing a boat, you must be acquainted with these regulations. It is feasible to own a watercraft without…
No one wants to head out on the water worried that their vessel fails to comply with US Coast Guard boat requirements. These requirements, at times, can seem capricious, if not downright contradictory and confusing. Each moment spent worried about them or being in compliance with them is a moment not spent enjoying your boat…
Are you in the process of completing your initial vessel documentation and aren’t sure which endorsement to put? Does it seem a bit more confusing than it should be, even though you know exactly how you plan on using your vessel? Picking the right endorsement for your vessel is crucial to maintaining compliance with Coast…
Spring is finally here. After a seemingly endless winter, the weather is warm, the water is getting there, and the sun is bright. This is the perfect time to take your boat out on the water with family friends. If it isn’t the perfect time to do so where you are, then it’s the perfect…
The MARAD waiver is a Maritime Administration mechanism meant for foreign-built vessels. After all, the Jones Act requires that the vessels operating in coastwise commerce be built domestically whenever possible. The MARAD small vessel waiver program recognizes that foreign-built vessels can also contribute to American commerce, which is why it grants waivers to certain vessels…
If you’ve ever picked the name of a child or a pet, then you know how important it is to pick the right name. The stakes might be a bit lower for naming a boat, but you still want to get it right. You want to have a name that you’re fond of, that you…
“I just got a vessel and I’d like to get it documented. Can you help?” We are often asked some variation of this exact same question. It’s not always a good idea to answer a question with a question, but in this case, it’s valid. We often respond, “are you sure you have to get…
Buying a second hand boat can be the start of fulfilling a dream of sailing the ocean or expanding your business by shipping to nearby countries. Buying a vessel is usually uncomplicated, and the documents change hands with very little problem. However, if you want to reassure yourself that you are not wasting your money…
When you go out on the water, you have a plan. You have a clear idea of where you’re going to take your vessel and when. You make sure that someone on land knows where you’re supposed to be and when you’re supposed to be there. You do this because it’s safe – it protects…
When you’re at the helm, you’re always on the lookout for threats. Rough seas, darkening skies, quickening wind, other boats, people in the water, and more – when you’re in control, it’s your responsibility to make sure that the vessel’s journey is safe. By staying “one step ahead of things,” by paying close attention, then…