USCG Documentation vs State Registration (Boat Buying Basics)

Ready to skipper a bigger sailboat with confidence? Check out NauticEd’s Skipper Large Sailboat Bundle—built for real-world decision-making, not guesswork. - https://www.nauticed.org/bundle/view/skipper?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=t9yfQpMGo4Q Buying or selling a sailboat in the Northeast? Sailboats Northeast helps you price it right, negotiate cleanly, and get to closing without the headaches. - https://www.sneyachts.com When you buy a boat, you generally have two ways to register it: (1) state registration/title or (2) U.S. Coast Guard documentation. This video breaks down what each option is, why documentation can make sense for eligible larger boats, and what it changes for resale and traveling. We cover: Eligibility basics (including the common 5 net tons threshold) Why documentation can help create a clearer federal record of ownership/mortgages What you file (forms + bill of sale), timeline, and using a documentation agency Dinghy + trailer registration and why state rules still matter What documents must be kept on board ⚠️ State requirements vary—always verify your local rules during closing. 00:00 - State Registration vs USCG Documentation 00:11 - US Coast Guard Documentation 00:25 - Why Document? (Ownership History + Easier Resale) 00:36 - What You Submit (Forms + Bill of Sale) 01:04 - Using a Documentation Agency (Title Search + Filing) 01:26 - Dinghy + Trailer: State Registration 01:45 - State Registration 02:25 - Keep Paperwork Onboard #sailboat #sailing #sailor #sailinglife