VESSEL DOCUMENTATION SERVICES

SERVING GREATER NEW ENGLAND / MID-ATLANTIC &  SOUTHEASTERN REGION

WHY USE A DOCUMENTATION SERVICE?

  • We know the process, so you don't have to.  If you are buying a boat for the first time, or already have one, it’s important to know the legal process.  Anchor Documentation is qualified and experienced with the intricacies and complex procedures a vessel requires both federally and by State.

  • One and Done.  Using our service means you can focus on your boat, while we do all the paperwork.  One call, and you're back on the water - with peace of mind that your legal responsibilities are in the hands of dedicated professionals.

WHY CHOOSE ANCHOR DOCUMENTATION?

  • We're a fishing family, first and foremost.  The service we provide you, is the same service we've been providing the fishermen of our family and friends for years.  We know better than our competitors that this is your livelihood.  Providing exceptional service and creating a long-term relationship is our priority.   

  • IT'S EASY!  We are flexible. Whether you are tech-savvy or postal-service-loving. we can handle your needs, the way you prefer, quickly.  Check out our options below.

Services

  • Initial, Exchange or Replacement of Certificate of Documentation. Addition of Endorsement (Coastwise, Fishery, Registry & Recreation) also available.

    Required: Demonstrate ownership of the vessel (bill of sale/title), U.S. Citizenship and eligibility for the endorsement sought. A Vessel must measure at least five net tons and must be wholly owned.

  • Renewal of Certificate of Documentation

    Note: If your USCG COD (Certificate of Documentation) has passed 30 Days of expiration, you must reinstate your Documentation.

  • The Abstract of Title is the information or record of all the information submitted to the USCG for a particular vessel. An abstract contains the owner’s boat information, which will aid you in finding the title. It will also show if the previous owner had an unsettled debt or lien on the vessel.

  • This service is for New Owner/Transferee. Certificate of Documentation does not need to be current to process the Transfer of Ownership.

    Required: Only signed and notarized Bills of Sale (or the back side of the CG-1270 Certificate of Documentation) are valid supporting documents for Transfer of Ownership on USCG Documented Vessels.

  • Vessel name change & Hailing port changes require appropriate form(s) to update the National Documentation Center’s database.

    Note: Any changes apart from vessel name change/hailing port change will require additional fees.

  • If there is an outstanding mortgage on a vessel you are purchasing/transferring, the Mortgagee (Lender) should complete a Satisfaction of Mortgage. A Vessel cannot be removed or transferred from documentation with an outstanding mortgage or lien.

  • Initial or Renewal of FCC Ship Radio License

    Note: FCC Ship Radio License is valid for ten (10) years. Services available for search of existing FCC license

  • Federal Fishing Permits are administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Specific Permits are broken down by Region:

    Alaska, Atlantic Region, Southeast, West Coast & Pacific Islands.

    Each Region and Fishery has its own regulatory authorities, with State and Federal permit and license requirements.

    Zero to three nautical miles from shore falls within State jurisdiction. Anything beyond that, up to 200 nautical miles out, qualifies as Federal waters.

About Us

“All Sea Captains need a Land Captain”

First and foremost, we’re a fishing family. My husband is a third generation Fisherman on the Gulf of Maine. Tenants Harbor, Maine is our primary Hailing Port. We predominately fish Lobsters, Bait and Blue Fine Tuna.

My husband refers to me as the “Land Captain”' because our fishing business, behind the scenes, is a full time job. I’ve spent nearly 10 years mastering the ever changing and complex laws and requirements of COD’s, Federal Fishery Permits and Licensing. Whether it’s purchasing fixer upper boats, or one of the four Fisheries we engage in, I’ve navigated a sea of paperwork to make sure that we’re compliant. A few years ago, I began to share this experience and knowledge by helping family and friends. It seemed the natural, next step to assist others.

I know the importance of reliable, fast service. This is our livelihood, too.

Contact Us

We will respond upon receipt to discuss your needs