If you’re looking to find information about a specific vessel, here are some tips to help simplify the search. Getting the most out of your research can make all the difference in finding the information you’re after.
Whether you’re searching for a boat history or want to know how to get vessel documentation, there are many resources available online. Let’s take a look at some of them!
The HIN Number
A HIN (hull identification number) is a unique 12-digit number that distinguishes one vessel from another. Similar to the VIN number on an automobile, this identifier helps prevent theft and allows law enforcement agencies to trace a boat when it is stolen.
The HIN is also known as the manufacturer’s hull code and is a permanent label affixed to the hull of most boats. It contains information about the boat’s country of origin, builder, and serial number.
In the United States, a HIN is required for all new recreational craft manufactured or imported on or after November 1, 1972. It can be applied for by the manufacturer or by the owner of the vessel at the time of registration.
Beginning with August 1, 1984, manufacturers were also required to affix a duplicate secondary HIN somewhere on an unexposed location inside the boat or beneath a fitting or item of hardware. This duplicate HIN is not visible to the operator but allows authorities to identify the boat if the primary HIN on the transom is removed or damaged.
The Official Number
The Official Number is a six to seven-digit number issued by the Coast Guard upon initial application for documentation and remains with the vessel documentation subsequent owners. It is carved into the main beam and remains unchanged for the rest of the vessel’s life, even if the port of registry or ship’s name changes.
It is used for tracking, control, surveillance, and enforcement. It enables flag states to accurately manage vessels, gives national authorities information they can use to police their waters more effectively and helps bring clarity and consistency to legal records.
The IMO scheme was introduced in 1987 and made mandatory in 1994 through SOLAS regulation XI/3. Specific criteria were agreed for passenger ships of 100 gross tonnage and above and all cargo ships of 300 gross tonnage and above.
The Vessel’s Name
A vessel is any type of watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water. Federal statutory law defines a vessel as a “watercraft or any artificial contrivance, including any equipment or device, that is designed, built, and intended to be operated on water or that can be used in connection with the operation of such a craft or any artificial contrivance.”
A documented vessel is identified by a permanent number carved or bonded to its hull. This number acts as a theft deterrent.
The official number is preceded by the letters “NO.” It must be marked on a clearly visible interior structural part of the hull, at least three inches high. It must also be secured in a permanent manner and located where easily accessible upon inspection.
The official number must remain with the vessel indefinitely. It is a primary identifier that can be referenced when determining the name, hailing port, trade endorsements, specifications and transfers of ownership.
The Owner’s Name
The owner’s name is a vital piece of information in determining the correct retrieval of data from a vessel data base. It is the most common and most often used entry field in all vessel retrieval programs.
The Coast Guard requires the owner’s name and proper hailing port to be permanently marked on a documented vessel. This is especially important in states that require registering and/or titling of vessels.
When a vessel is returned to documentation with a complete chain of title and citizenship evidence, it may be eligible for a Coastwise endorsement. A Coastwise endorsement is a nice to have but is not required for most vessels that are simply operated on pleasure waters or recreational pursuits.
If you only need to retrieve abbreviated data for a single vessel, enter a partial name. You should get an abbreviated listing of up to 20 vessels based on that part of the name you entered. Alternatively, you can select (click on) a vessel name in hypertext to receive complete documentation data for that craft.