Register a Boat in BC and Establish Ownership

register a boat in BC

Some people insist that registering their vessel is a waste of time because there’s no real point to it. However, what they don’t know is that there are a lot of benefits if you register a boat in BC.

Register a Boat in BC

If you pay for a vessel, you are the new owner, right? That’s how this works. However, a system exists so that you can legitimize your purchase in legal terms. This is what vessel registration is for: to register a boat in BC and, in doing so, establish full legal ownership. You don’t have to do this with the vast majority of your possessions, though, so why is a vessel any different? Well, there will be times in which you will need to prove and even enforce your ownership over the vessel. Theoretically, anyone could jump on your vessel and claim ownership over it, so what can you do to avoid that? Simply register your boat with the Canadia Registry of Vessels.

Canadian Nationality

By registering your vessel, you are not only establishing your own ownership over it; you are also giving it a nationality. This means that your vessel will be allowed to operate without restrictions in Canadian waters as long as it adheres to the conditions of its registration. This also means that you will then be entitled to the protections under Canadian law. Additionally, this will allow you to fly the Canadian flag aboard your boat. You have to note, however, that in order for someone to be eligible for ownership of the vessel, even if it is shared, they have to be a Canadian citizen, a Canadian resident, or a corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada.

register a boat in BC

Security for a Loan

If you are looking to get a loan, you will most likely have to provide some sort of security that shows you will be able to pay for the loan in the future. This will often take the form of an asset that, should you need to, could be used to pay for the loan itself. Your vessel, for example, could provide you with the necessary security for a loan. However, in order for a valid form of security, you will need to register a boat in BC. The vessel will need to be registered under the ownership of the same person taking the loan in order for it to be a valid lien. 

Easily Register a Boat in BC

As complicated as the process to register a boat in BC might seem, it doesn’t have to be. At least, it shouldn’t be if you have the right guide. That is what we are here for, after all, at the National Vessel Registry Center. Here, our job is to make every maritime process easy for you, whether it is for new registration, a transfer, or a change in ownership. All these forms and more are readily available on our website for you to fill out. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone or email.