When it comes to researching a vessel, many users want to know one specific thing above all else: who owns it. Whether you’re considering purchasing a documented vessel, conducting due diligence, or investigating a maritime claim, knowing the ownership status is a key part of the process. However, unlike many public records, ownership details for vessels documented with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) are not readily available through basic online searches.
That said, there are secure, legal methods to access this information—and The Vessel Documentation E-Portal offers tools that make it easier than ever to do so. If you’re wondering how to find the owner of a documented vessel, the answer lies in the Abstract of Title, a document you can request directly through our platform.
Why Isn’t Owner Information Publicly Available?
First, it’s important to understand that vessel ownership details are considered private information. The USCG does not publish names, addresses, or other personal data about vessel owners in the public documentation record. As such, our vessel search tool—which allows you to search by name, HIN, or official number—will not show the owner’s identity.
That’s because the USCG database is structured to reflect a vessel’s registration and documentation status, not personal identifiers. While the system is public-facing in terms of vessel data, ownership specifics are intentionally excluded to protect privacy.
If you want to legally find the owner of a documented vessel, you’ll need to request the proper form: the Abstract of Title.
What Is an Abstract of Title?
An Abstract of Title is an official document issued by the United States Coast Guard that shows the complete recorded history of a documented vessel. This includes not just the technical specifications and documentation dates, but also:
- Current and previous owners
- Recorded mortgages, liens, and encumbrances
- Transfers of ownership
- Satisfactions of mortgages
In short, an Abstract of Title serves as a vessel’s ownership and financial history, much like a title report for real estate. It’s an essential document for anyone planning to purchase a documented vessel, finance a marine asset, or confirm ownership in a legal dispute.
How Do I Request an Abstract of Title?
Through The Vessel Documentation E-Portal, the process of applying for an Abstract of Title is simple, fast, and entirely online. Here’s how our platform helps:
- Streamlined Form Submission: Our portal walks you through each section of the form with clear guidance, reducing the chance of mistakes or missing fields.
- Secure Data Entry: Your information is encrypted and protected during the entire process.
- Mobile-Friendly Design: You can complete the application on your phone, tablet, or desktop computer.
- Professional Review: Before the form is submitted to the Coast Guard, our document processors check it for accuracy and completeness.
Once submitted, the Coast Guard processes the request and issues the Abstract of Title. The turnaround time can vary depending on USCG volume, but submitting through our portal eliminates the hassle of paper forms, mailing, or navigating a government website.
What Details Are Included in an Abstract of Title?
The Abstract of Title can include a wide range of data—especially helpful if you’re evaluating a potential purchase or validating vessel status. It may contain:
- Name(s) of the owner(s) listed on file with the Coast Guard
- Address of record for ownership communications
- Dates and documents tied to ownership transfers
- Recordings of liens or Preferred Ship Mortgages
- Any mortgage satisfactions or releases on file
- Historical data showing when the vessel was originally documented
- Any deletions or reinstatements associated with the vessel’s documentation
It’s worth noting that all information in the Abstract is based on what has been submitted to and recorded by the Coast Guard. If a transfer or lien was not properly filed, it may not appear in the Abstract.
Can I Use a Regular Vessel Search to Find the Owner?
No. While our vessel search tool allows users to perform a Coast Guard search by name, official number, or HIN, it does not provide ownership details.
Our search feature is ideal for reviewing public vessel data such as:
- Certificate of Documentation status
- Endorsements (recreational, coastwise, etc.)
- Hailing port
- Issue and expiration dates
- Vessel dimensions and tonnage
But again, none of this includes private or financial data such as the owner’s name or address. For that, the Abstract of Title is your most accurate and legal path forward.
What If the Vessel Is Foreign-Registered?
If the vessel in question is registered outside of the United States, you won’t be able to request an Abstract of Title from the USCG. However, The Vessel Documentation E-Portal offers another useful tool: the Foreign Vessel Title Search Request.
This feature allows users to request ownership data and vessel history from foreign registries in certain participating countries. While the level of detail and format may differ depending on the jurisdiction, many of these foreign title search results will:
- Identify the current registered owner
- Provide vessel registration numbers and names
- Offer data on mortgages or liens, if recorded
- Show registration history and status
Through our portal, you can submit a Foreign Vessel Title Search Request in much the same way as you would apply for an Abstract of Title. We’ll walk you through the submission process, ensure all required information is included, and forward it to the appropriate authority.
What Countries Are Covered in the Foreign Title Search?
While availability can vary depending on current international agreements and registry policies, common countries often include:
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Certain Caribbean nations
Please note that not all countries participate or make their vessel title records available publicly. If you’re unsure whether a specific nation is eligible, our portal provides clear guidelines during the application process.
Do I Need to Be the Owner to Request an Abstract or Title Search?
No. You do not have to be the owner of a vessel to request an Abstract of Title or submit a Foreign Vessel Title Search Request. These are public records and available for lawful review. Anyone—whether a potential buyer, maritime attorney, lender, or vessel broker—can apply.
That said, misuse of information for unauthorized or illegal purposes may be subject to legal penalties. Always use ownership data responsibly and within the bounds of applicable laws.
How Does The Vessel Documentation E-Portal Help Throughout This Process?
At The Vessel Documentation E-Portal, our mission is to make vessel documentation easier, faster, and more secure. Whether you’re applying for documentation, renewing, or requesting an ownership record like the Abstract of Title, we provide:
- A clean, intuitive platform that removes the clutter and confusion of government websites
- Document processing support, with trained professionals reviewing submissions
- Rush processing options for faster turnaround
- Encrypted, mobile-optimized forms for on-the-go convenience
- One-stop access to all key documentation forms, including transfers, deletions, endorsements, and more
We are not the Coast Guard, and we do not make eligibility determinations or issue documentation ourselves. But we provide the tools, support, and user-friendly experience that make working with official documentation far more efficient.
Start Your Ownership Search Today
Whether you’re checking the ownership status of a vessel you’re interested in purchasing, researching a foreign-flagged boat, or just need clarity about a vessel’s background, we’re here to help.
The Abstract of Title and Foreign Vessel Title Search Request forms are available now through The Vessel Documentation E-Portal. In just a few minutes, you can begin your application and move one step closer to the accurate vessel information you need.
Don’t rely on guesswork—find out who owns a documented vessel legally and securely. Visit our portal today to get started.