Owning a vessel comes with several responsibilities, including documentation and compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Among these requirements, ensuring proper designations for your vessel’s name and hailing port is paramount. Both elements are instrumental in identifying your vessel and maintaining compliance with federal regulations. If you’re planning to rename your vessel or change its hailing port, understanding the steps and legal specifications involved is essential.
We can assist you in successfully navigating the changes.
Rules for Changing the Vessel Name
Changing the name of your vessel is not as simple as giving it a new title. The process is guided by specific regulations to prevent confusion and ensure public safety. According to 46 CFR 67.117, the name chosen for the vessel must adhere to these rules:
- Language and Format: The name of the vessel must consist of letters in the Latin alphabet and/or numbers, either in Arabic or Roman form.
- Avoidance of Miscommunication: The name cannot be identical to terms or phrases used for calling for help in emergencies at sea, such as “Mayday.”
- Appropriateness: Obscene language or terms deemed profane, offensive, or discriminatory based on race or ethnicity are strictly prohibited.
Once you’ve selected an acceptable name for your vessel, you must apply for approval with the U.S. Coast Guard. This step may require additional permissions if there’s an outstanding mortgage on the vessel. The mortgagee or lender must consent to the name change before the application can be submitted.
Correct Marking of the Vessel Name
Once the name change is approved, vessel owners must correctly mark their vessel with the new name. Both the port and starboard bow, along with the stern, must display the updated name in clear, legible letters. For vessels with a square bow, the name should be marked on a visible part of the bow. Ensure that the size of the letters meets the regulatory height requirement of at least four inches and that the markings are durable and easily readable.
Rules for Changing the Hailing Port
Your vessel’s hailing port is the geographical location associated with it. Although it’s often mistaken as the owner’s hometown or the location where the vessel is most frequently docked, the hailing port is simply a U.S. location of the owner’s choosing. Like the vessel name, the hailing port serves an important identification function and must also comply with certain guidelines.
Legal Guidelines for Hailing Ports
The hailing port must:
- Be a location within the United States recognized by Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS).
- Include the state, territory, or U.S. possession where the port is located.
- Be marked on the stern of your vessel in a conspicuous manner.
Unlike the vessel name, the hailing port designation must be displayed alongside the vessel name. For recreational vessels, both the name and hailing port must be marked on an easily visible part of the hull.
Why Change a Hailing Port?
Whether you’ve relocated or want to associate your vessel with a port that better reflects its purpose or registration, changing the hailing port can be done for various reasons. Much like changing a vessel name, this process requires adherence to all Coast Guard regulations to ensure compliance.
Why a Vessel’s Name and Hailing Port Matter
The name and hailing port of your vessel are more than just decorative features. They serve as primary identification markers, alongside your Certificate of Documentation (COD). Proper marking ensures that your vessel complies with federal guidelines, making it identifiable in transactions, inspections, or emergencies. Additionally, the hailing port connects your vessel to a specific U.S. location, even if it primarily operates elsewhere.
Federal laws require that this information be appropriately marked on the exterior of your vessel. Understanding the significance of these designations, as well as the steps to modify them, is key for vessel owners who want to ensure compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard’s regulations.
Steps to Change the Name or Hailing Port of Your Vessel
Here is a step-by-step outline for modifying either the name or hailing port of your vessel under federal regulations:
Step 1. Review Regulatory Guidelines
Before starting the process, review the legal requirements for hailing ports. Ensure that your new name and port meet the criteria and avoid any disqualifying terms or locations.
Step 2. Seek Mortgagee Consent (if applicable)
If your vessel has an active mortgage, obtain written permission from your lender to proceed with the change. Without this approval, you cannot formally apply for a modification through the Coast Guard.
Step 3. Complete the Necessary Documentation
Fill out the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard form to request changes. Visit the Change of Vessel Name and Hailing Port section of the CG Portal to access the form. Provide all required information, including:
- New vessel name and/or updated hailing port.
- Current Certificate of Documentation number.
- Owner details and contact information.
If you encounter issues during this step, you can contact documentation processors for guidance.
Step 4. Pay Applicable Fees
Changes to your vessel’s documentation often involve processing fees. Confirm the fee amount during the application process and ensure timely payment to prevent delays in processing.
Step 5. Await Approval
Submit your completed form and await approval by the U.S. Coast Guard. Once your request is processed, you’ll receive updated documentation reflecting the changes.
Step 6. Update the Vessel Markings
Upon receiving approval, promptly update the markings on your vessel to reflect the new name and/or hailing port. Ensure the lettering complies with size and visibility requirements, and use durable materials designed to withstand environmental conditions.
Maintaining Compliance in Vessel Documentation
Adhering to U.S. Coast Guard rules for vessel ownership and documentation is essential for maintaining operational compliance. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
- Regularly Update Your Documentation: Changes in ownership, endorsements, or vessel details require prompt documentation updates.
- Verify Marking Requirements: Ensure the name and hailing port are always properly displayed and legible on the vessel.
- Monitor Expiration Dates: Keep track of expiration dates for your Certificate of Documentation to avoid lapses in compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Coast Guard approval for hailing port changes?
Yes. Hailing port changes, like name changes, must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. You must submit the change request through the proper documentation channels.
Can I use any name for my vessel?
No. The name must comply with federal guidelines. This includes avoiding obscene language, discriminatory terms, or words commonly associated with distress signals.
Take the Next Step Toward Compliance
Renaming a vessel or changing its hailing port doesn’t have to be complicated. At CG Portal, we simplify the process with step-by-step guidance and user-friendly resources to ensure your vessel remains compliant. Visit our online portal today to begin your documentation updates and keep your vessel set for smooth sailing.