Did something change in your life in regards to you and/or your vessel? Does it feel like you should update your ship documentation but you aren’t sure if it’s the right move (or even how to do so?) We created the Maritime Documentation Center for exactly that scenario (among many others). As you know from running a maritime business and charting a course, things can change. The weather can turn rapidly, forcing you to alter your course. When that happens in your life, we can make it easier to update your documentation.
Did You and/or Your Boat Move to a New Home?
If you’ve moved from the home that’s on your documentation, you need to update that with the powers that be. Alternatively, the same is true for your vessel as well. Should you have moved to a new location, then you’re going to want the “Change of Address” form. (Indeed, we have it so far up on the upper left of the site because it’s used almost as often as the “Renewal” option.) If you moved your vessel to a new port, then “Change of Vessel Name or Hailing Port” is the right option.
Have You Brought in a New Owner?
Over time, vessels can change hands from one owner to another, or even from one group of owners to another. Perhaps it’s time to bring on a new owner or one wants to move on from owning the vessel. Another one of the most commonly used forms at our site: the “Transfer/Exchange” form. Something to keep in mind about this form: if there’s an outstanding mortgage on the vessel (Preferred Ship’s Mortgage, etc.) then you’re going to need permission from the lender/mortgagee to complete the transfer.
Is it Time for You to Move on From Your Documented Vessel?
Has your vessel stopped working? Is it at the point where it’s completely unsalvageable, despite anyone’s best efforts? Should you be in a position where it’s impossible to use the vessel, there’s really no reason for you to maintain the registration. For that reason and others, you may then decide to delete your documentation. We have the “deletion” form at our site for exactly that reason. As you might imagine, for many vessel owners, this is the last resort (but often the correct one).
A Home for Ship Documentation
The forms listed above are just a few of the ones that you might need should changes occur in your life in regards to your vessel. You’ll be able to find all of the other forms you might need at our site as well. Vessel ownership is, both literally and figuratively, a journey. You can do everything you can to predict the next change in a course but you can never be 100% sure about what’s coming. However, you can find all of the documentation you’ll need to be able to own and operate your vessel as you would like at our site. For more: (800) 535-8570.