A Certificate of Documentation (COD) is essential for many vessels operating in U.S. waters, offering proof of nationality and verifying ownership. However, what many vessel owners might not realize is that there are different types of vessel documentation, each tailored to the specific use of a vessel. Understanding these types and their requirements can help you make informed decisions and ensure compliance with U.S. maritime law.
There are different types of vessel documentation, each with differing requirements. Moreover, we can help you adjust or maintain documentation as your vessel’s purpose evolves.
Types of Vessel Documentation Endorsements
When initially applying for vessel documentation, owners must select a specific endorsement type that aligns with the intended use of the vessel. The U.S. Coast Guard offers four major endorsements:
1. Recreation Endorsement
This is the most common type of endorsement for private vessel owners. A recreation endorsement allows the vessel to be used solely for personal pleasure. Activities such as fishing trips, family outings, or cruising fall under this category. While this endorsement offers freedom for personal use, it strictly prohibits any commercial operations. For example, you cannot use a vessel with a recreational endorsement to provide paid charter services.
2. Coastwise Endorsement
A coastwise endorsement permits vessels to engage in transporting passengers or goods for hire within U.S. navigable waters or the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This endorsement is ideal for businesses providing ferry services, charter operations, or transporting goods between U.S. ports. To qualify, specific citizenship and vessel build requirements must be met, including proving that the vessel was constructed in the United States.
3. Fishery Endorsement
This endorsement is mandatory for vessels involved in commercial fishing activities within U.S. waters. Similar to the coastwise endorsement, the fishery endorsement requires that the vessel meets specific requirements concerning U.S. citizenship, construction, and operation. It’s important to note that vessels with a fishery endorsement must be used strictly for commercial fishing purposes; using them for other commercial activities could breach maritime regulations.
4. Registry Endorsement
A registry endorsement is primarily used for vessels engaged in trade activities involving foreign ports. It certifies a vessel’s eligibility for foreign trade and enables operation between the United States and international destinations. However, vessels with this endorsement are not allowed to engage in coastwise trade or commercial fishing within U.S. waters.
What to Keep in Mind
Regardless of the type of endorsement, any documented vessel can also be used for recreational purposes. This means that even if your vessel is primarily documented for coastwise trade or fisheries, it can still double as the family’s weekend leisure boat.
This flexibility allows vessel owners to maximize their investment, using the same vessel for both professional and personal activities without needing to make significant modifications or adjustments to its documentation.
Can You Change Your Vessel’s Endorsement?
Yes, vessel documentation endorsements can be modified to reflect a change in how the vessel is used. For example, if your vessel transitions from personal use to operating as a charter boat under a coastwise endorsement, you can update its documentation to reflect this new purpose. It’s a straightforward process, but it’s important to know that changes to endorsements must be requested separately.
The U.S. Coast Guard requires vessel owners to submit a specific form called the “Change of Endorsement or Trade Indicator” to make these updates. This request cannot be completed as part of a routine renewal or reinstatement process. By submitting this form, vessel owners ensure that their documentation aligns with the vessel’s intended use, avoiding any potential compliance issues. Of course, you can find this form at our portal, too.
Legal Framework and Key Regulations
The requirements and processes surrounding vessel documentation, including endorsement changes and eligibility criteria, are outlined by U.S. Code Title 46 and specific U.S. Coast Guard regulations. These include:
- 67.5 Vessels Eligible for Documentation
Any vessel measuring at least five net tons and wholly owned by U.S. citizens qualifies for documentation. This law covers both recreational and commercial vessels.
- 67.7 Vessels Requiring Documentation
Commercial vessels engaging in coastwise trading, fishing, or foreign commerce are required to carry the appropriate endorsements mentioned earlier.
- 67.50 Requirement for Title Evidence
Ownership changes, new applications for endorsements, or reinstatements necessitate appropriate title evidence to establish compliance with federal laws.
Adherence to these legal parameters ensures that a vessel’s documentation remains valid and allows it to operate without interruptions.
The Importance of Vessel Documentation
Vessel documentation serves various purposes beyond proving ownership. Having the proper documentation:
- Facilitates access to U.S. waters and specific trades without legal hurdles.
- Verifies the vessel’s compliance with safety and build standards.
- Ensures eligibility for trade activities and operations in compliance with federal law.
Additionally, documented vessels receive unique official numbers and hailing ports, enhancing their traceability.
The Role of CG Portal
Navigating vessel documentation and ensuring compliance with federal regulations can be an intimidating process for owners. This is where platforms like CG Portal come in. CG Portal specializes in simplifying vessel documentation processes, including registration, endorsement changes, renewals, and more. By offering expert guidance and an easy-to-use online portal, CG Portal helps vessel owners ensure their documentation is always accurate and current.
We understand how your course can change. As such, we make it easy to change your endorsement, too.
Are you ready to streamline the process? Visit CG Portal to manage all your vessel documentation needs with ease.