Coast Guard Documentation

[witeagle]

For a 32 Lurhs, is it worth getting documented? The prior owner had the boat documented. Current status is 'deleted' in the CG database, however getting redocumented is just a form and $84.

Is it really worth it? The state still requires me to have the boat registered (but won't have to display the numbers)

[Douglas Fairchild]

Some lenders require the boat be documented so that if you default on the loan they have first claim on the vessel. Documented vessels can also be seized by the feds if someone like a mechanic goes through the federal process. It is very difficult to get a vessel unseized. Some people got their vessels documented to avoid state taxes but most states have circumvented this as in your case where they still require you to register in their state. If you buy a documented vessel it is easy to determine if the title is clear or not so it is a benefit to the buyer.

[witeagle]

So it really sounds like it's a good idea to NOT document the boat considering I still need to register the boat with the state and I already paid the taxes.

[Douglas Fairchild]

Obviously your lender does not require it as you already have the boat. My opinion for what its worth would be no. I think there are some benefits if you are going to foreign ports which most of us do not do.

[dnkstarr]

All of my boats have been documented. We live in the caribbean and do frequently travel to differant ports. The US Documentation is a must. If you are planning on extended travel outside the states it should be considered in my opinion.

[witeagle]

I am not planning on taking this boat out of US waters. This boat had travelled to the Bahamas since I found customs stickers on it, however now the boat is in New Jersey and travelling that far is not an option at current fuel prices.

[flbluerunner]

I have owned one boat that my lender required documentation.
When I bought my new boat I did not see a need to document.
I travel to the Bahamas and have not had any problems.

John:patriot:

[CrazyIslandMoFo]

I documented "Silver Star" to register as commercial palegic vessel. The Doc saves me excise tax, and town taxes. I also am alowed a T/T without seprate reg. I don't believe there is a renewal fee, only 5$ if over 30 days late. I think Documentation carries a certain respect w/ the coasties.:001_cool:
She looks nice and clean without those pesky #'s on the bow...