Although not that common, there might come a time in your boat ownership where you’re in need of a vessel name change, and when that time comes, we’ll have everything you need to take care of it. Whether you’ve recently purchased a vessel with an unappealing name or simply want to give your boat a fresh start, changing its name is a fairly simple process. But before we dive into the steps of how to change your vessel’s name, let’s take a look at some important background information.
It’s important to note first and foremost that changing the name of your vessel serves more than just aesthetic purposes. In fact, you must follow certain legal requirements to ensure the safety and registration of your boat. This is particularly crucial if you use your vessel for commercial purposes.
Next, it’s important to understand the significance of a vessel’s name. For many boaters, their vessel’s name holds sentimental value and may have a personal meaning. If you have recently purchased a used boat or simply want to change the name for personal reasons, there are proper procedures that must be followed. These steps may vary depending on your location and the type of vessel you own, so it’s important to do some research beforehand or consult with a professional.
In Canada, all recreational vessels must be registered with Transport Canada. This includes pleasure craft such as sailboats, motorboats, and more. Commercial vessels must also be registered.
How to Apply For a Vessel Name Change
Changing a vessel’s name can stem from various reasons. You might have named it after someone you’d rather forget or wish to honor a new person by renaming it. So, how do you go about altering the vessel’s name? Truth is, you don’t need to justify this decision. It’s your vessel after all. While the process isn’t overly complex, it does entail some paperwork. Like any bureaucratic task, it can become intricate if navigated blindly. To assist you, we’ve crafted a concise guide for your convenience.
Boat Name Change Requirements
Understanding the vessel naming requirements is crucial. While you have the freedom to choose a name, it must be unique. During registration, you provided three options in case one was unavailable. When changing the vessel’s name, verify its availability in the database. Utilize Transport Canada’s lookup service to ensure your new vessel name is distinct.
Filing the Application For Name Change
If you’ve already picked a new name for your vessel and it’s available, the next step is to submit the required form. Visit the registry tab on our menu to access the vessel name change form. You can also use this form to update the vessel’s hailing port if you’re relocating. You can conveniently complete and submit these forms on our platform, ensuring you handle everything smoothly before submitting to Transport Canada.
File Paperwork With Transport Canada
Dealing with paperwork, especially with government agencies and their red tape, can be a hassle. As a vessel owner in Canada, you might think you’re stuck navigating through this bureaucracy for your vessel registration or pleasure craft license. But, it doesn’t have to be so complicated or frustrating. Our team at the National Vessel Registry Center has streamlined the process to make applications and paperwork submissions much simpler for you. Explore our menu to find the necessary forms, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you need assistance with completing them.
