What is a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?

A VSC is a free, courtesy examination of your boat, personal watercraft, or paddlecraft. Our qualified examiners will inspect your boat for compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. If you fail, you will not be reported to the Coast Guard. Instead, we will inform you on what needs to be corrected in order to ensure you are current with regulations. A boat that is current with safety regulations will also be more likely to handle an incident with preparedness instead of panic. Boats that pass will be issued the year’s sticker, indicated that the vessel is compliant with safety laws for the year.

VSCs are done anywhere from your local marina to the boat ramp to even your driveway, if requested. A VSC usually takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and preparedness of your vessel.

Why should I get a VSC?

Vessels passing safety checks are awarded a U.S. Coast Guard / Auxiliary Decal that informs the appropriate authorities such as the U.S. Coast Guard and local marine police agencies that your boat was in full compliance with all Federal and State boating laws during a safety check for that year. Best of all every Vessel Safety Check is 100% free of charge!

What if I Don’t Pass?

If your boat does not pass, no citation is issued – we are not law enforcement. Instead, you are provided a written report in how to correct any discrepancies.

Why Receive a Vessel Safety Check?

Safety! The peace of mind that your boat meets federal safety standards and that in an emergency you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and summon help. Additionally, you will avoid substantial fines should you ever be boarded by the U.S. Coast Guard or other law enforcement and found to be in violation.

In many cases boating insurance agencies offer discounts for vessels which undergo a Vessel Safety Check every year. All decals and safety checks are void December 31st of year they are inspected, they are also void should the operator /owner fail to maintain the vessels equipment or the vessel itself to the standard at the time of the safety check.

What Type of Items Are Checked?

All of these items are currently required by state and federal laws and, if missing or non-operating, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard.