What makes a vessel transaction different
Larger vessels are often documented with the U.S. Coast Guard's National Vessel Documentation Center, while many recreational boats are titled or registered by a state. Liens and preferred ship mortgages can attach to a vessel and, in many cases, follow it after a sale, so a clean title and lien search matters as much as the price. Commercial vessels can raise added questions about who may own and operate them under U.S. law, as well as flag and registry issues if the seller or buyer is abroad. Sales and use tax questions can arise depending on where the vessel is delivered and kept. These issues are usually handled through a written purchase agreement rather than a handshake.
Documents and inspections before closing
A buyer usually wants a survey by an independent marine surveyor, a sea trial, and a review of maintenance and registration records before committing. Sellers should gather the certificate of documentation or state title, the chain of prior bills of sale, any mortgage satisfaction, and records of recent work. Deposits are often held in escrow, and the agreement should say when they become nonrefundable and what happens if the survey turns up problems. For an international deal, deletion from one registry and entry into another needs to be coordinated so the vessel is not left without a valid registration. Insurance should be in place before the vessel changes hands.
What we settle with you first
We start by identifying the type of vessel, where it is registered, and where the buyer intends to keep or operate it. We review the draft agreement, the title and documentation status, and any lien or mortgage records. If financing is involved, we coordinate with the lender on the mortgage filing and closing steps. For commercial vessels, we also look at whether the buyer's ownership structure fits the intended use. That early review usually determines which conditions belong in the agreement before money moves.
