What does a vessel inspection entail?

All vessels traveling on the high seas or within federal navigable waters are subject to an onboard United States Coast Guard (USCG) inspection. The scope, duration and nature of the vessel inspection will vary depending on:

• size (gross tonnage) of the vessel;
• whether the vessel is used for recreational or commercial purposes;
• the number of passengers aboard; and
• where the vessel is being navigated (for instance, the Great Lakes versus the high seas, or a Western river).

Vessel operators, owners and crews can ensure smooth vessel inspections by adhering to all federal regulations, anticipating inspections, and cooperating with USCG personnel and other authorized inspectors.

What will the USCG look for during a vessel inspection?

As noted, the details for each vessel inspection will vary with vessel size and type. For instance, the requirements for a private recreational vessel will be different than those for a towing vessel or commercial fishing boat. There are, however, some aspects that apply to a wide spectrum of vessels.

Below are some of the key factors that may be under scrutiny during a vessel inspection:

Navigational safety – Inspectors will verify a vessel has all requisite tools, equipment and procedures in place to ensure safe navigation. This includes factors such as:

• current, updated navigational and tide charts;
• functioning navigational equipment -- to federal specifications (radar, compass, navigation lights);
• passenger count (not to exceed stated limit);
• functioning public address system;
• functioning EPIRB;
• voyage plan (required for vessels transporting overnight passengers or those with ocean or coastal routes);
• signaling devices (horns, bells, whistles); and
• more.

Structural integrity – An inspector will ensure the external hull is in good working condition. This includes examination of:

• bulkheads;
• decks;
• shell; and
• more.

Inspectors will be focused on signs of damage or disrepair or the need for modification or repair.

General health and safety – Inspectors will verify crew and passengers are not subject to dangerous or unsanitary conditions. This includes inspection of ventilation, cooking and heating systems. Inspectors also may conduct fire or other safety drills.

Safety equipment – Inspectors will verify a vessel is carrying all USCG-required safety and rescue equipment, such as one properly sized personal flotation device per person aboard and so on.

Why does the USCG conduct vessel inspections?

The USCG is charged with safeguarding federal waterways and upholding maritime law.

The USCG is especially concerned with the factors outlined below:

• maintaining marine safety (reducing the likelihood of marine accidents, property damage/loss, injuries and fatalities at sea);
• enforcing federal drug laws (and curtailing drug-smuggling efforts);
• enforcing fishing laws and regulations (such as the 200-mile Fishery Conservation Zone);
• enforcing immigration laws; and
• preserving marine health and integrity (this includes efforts to curtail marine pollution).

Note that some inspections will be conducted with advance warning and may even come at the behest of a vessel operator/owner. Other inspections may occur during an unannounced boarding of a vessel.

Take steps to stay in compliance with USCG regulations. Start by downloading our free Logbook Quick Reference Guide to determine your vessel logbook needs. Call 888-468-3757 to learn more.