If your vessel’s documentation renewal left you dissatisfied, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Many yacht owners are frustrated with the procedure, which may be lengthy and tiresome. Many boat owners, we know, experience anxiety every time the time comes to renew their vessel’s paperwork. And who can blame them? While the paperwork renewal procedure is something most of us have to go through, it’s much more pleasant for some than others.
Like most boat owners, you probably just groaned at how much work is involved. Thankfully, there are actions you may do to make the renewal process less traumatic. We’ll review some of those recommendations so that your paperwork renewal process leaves you feeling pleased about sailing.
File a protest
You may register a protest if you have problems with your boat’s paperwork. This might be the most effective technique to prove that you have complied with the government’s regulations regarding the renewal process. You should also know that several criteria must be met before a protest can be filed, making the process cumbersome. A statement of facts, copies of any documentation granted to you by the prior owner, and any other documents proving your ownership and the required fee will be required.
So, what comes after this? If the Coast Guard verifies your information and finds it correct, they will renew your boat’s paperwork without any issues. If they need more time, they may contact you for clarification or offer you specific instructions on how to help them. The procedure typically takes at least three months, from filing a protest until you get your original papers with the corrected information on them.
Write a Letter to the Coast Guard
The outcomes of your boat’s documentation renewal may have yet to meet your expectations, but options are still available. Please write a letter to your shipping firm or the Coast Guard stating why you believe they’ve provided you with incorrect information concerning the documentation for your vessel. Include copies of relevant papers, such as the bill of sale for the boat or engine, that support your claim in the letter.
That will help the Coast Guard comprehend your perspective and the data that backs up your assertions. If you don’t get a response after sending this letter, send another one that elaborates on the timeline of events and why you disagree with their decision. Sending the second letter by certified mail will verify that it has arrived at its destination. If you are still waiting for a response after two letters, you may want to see a marine law attorney for advice.
Request an Informal Conference
You can also request an informal conference with the Coast Guard officer who issued your documentation renewal. The Coast Guard will write this individual an official letter explaining the situation and requesting a phone call or in-person meeting to resolve the matter. This meeting is designed to allow the officer to explain their mistakes before being officially requested to provide you with a new document. Perhaps they need to attach a required form or information. The police officer will likely apologize and ask what they can do to make amends during this session.
You can rectify the situation by simply correcting the documentation if the issue is that the vessel’s registration number was transposed from the original (used when the vessel was constructed). However, if your ship has gone through several owners since it was constructed and has yet to be registered within a specified time frame, you may have lost your right to use its original name; in this instance, only an appeal might correct the situation.
Seek Judicial Review On Documentation Renewal
You may sue the rating agency if you believe they made a mistake with your rating. You may choose to do this if you feel there was a procedural mistake or if you were not allowed to provide evidence in your favor about your vessel (such as letters of support from prior owners). You may be eligible for an administrative hearing before going to court; however, this will depend on the legislation in your state. Boating is something that almost everyone has tried at some point in their lives, regardless of age, gender, or location.
People have been sailing boats for years without ever having to deal with the complexities of boat documentation. Nonetheless, it remains a matter of interest for individuals who spend a lot of time on the water, and in specific locations, it’s essential. Knowing how to handle the potential problems that might arise with boat paperwork can be the difference between a major hassle and a little one.
Maritime Documentation Center offers many services to small and large businesses, including boat and yacht registration. We understand that every client has different needs, and we strive to develop an individualized plan to meet them. Our staff comprises individuals with years of experience in the industry, allowing us to provide you with superior service at an affordable cost. Contact the Maritime Documentation Center at (800)-535-8570 for more information.