As you know, some vessels have to be registered in Canada, but some vessels can be registered even though it isn’t necessary. Vessels that do have to be registered include vessels that will be operated in foreign waters and/or are used for commercial purposes. If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a hundred times: “gross tonnes,” in this context, does not refer to weight. We aren’t talking about “tons” here. Below, we’ll discuss tonnage measurements and other necessary parts of registration.
Tonnage Measurements Explained
“The gross tonnage is a function of the molded volume of all enclosed spaces of the ship.” You don’t have to take our word for it; you can listen to the “International Maritime Organization.” So, to extrapolate out from this, that means that the gross tonnes are all of the inside areas of the ship, the “volume.” That includes any rooms that you might have below deck, but also includes the hull of the ship itself. All of that comes under the heading of “gross tonnes.”
Do I Have to Measure my Tonnage?
There’s a simple mathematical formula that you can use. Obviously, you don’t want to have to go the trouble to get your ship measured if you don’t have to. Instead, take the length, depths, and breadth of your vessel. You probably have these numbers lying around somewhere. Then, multiply them together: the length times the depth times the breadth. Once you’ve done that, you’re not done. The final step is to divide the entire thing by one hundred. That may not give you a precise number, but it’s one that will let you know how close you are.
“Commercial Purposes”
Of course, the gross tonnes aren’t the only qualification that you have to be clear on when it comes to registration. You also want to be sure if your vessel is being used for “commercial purposes” as well. Usually, it’s “black and white” – you’re using your vessel for fun and recreation, or you’re using it for business. However, there can be some grey areas, such as giving folks a tour, that kind of thing. A good rule of thumb: if someone is paying to be on your vessel, and not just chipping in gas money, then you’re using it for commercial purposes.
One Place for Questions and Help
Words like “gross tonnes” aren’t exactly things you hear in your day to day life, even if you spend much of your life on the water. That’s where we come in. Here at the National Vessel Registry Corp., we can help you to get all that you need out of vessel registration. We can make sure that you’re on the water legally and stay that way, too. No matter why you want to be on the water, for pleasure, business or anything in between, we’ve got you covered. Just call us at (800) 419-9569.