They say the best day of someone's life is when they get married or when their first child is born. But there's others who say the actual best day is when you acquire a new boat...We're not here to debate that, but I will say I'm super stoked to have experienced the latter recently, and just in time for National Safe Boating Week.
I was lucky enough to find a beautiful 2003 Scout 175 Sportfish boat from a neighbor down the road. He kept it in pristine condition and was happy to hand it off to someone close by and keep it in the neighborhood. After getting the title signed over, I went straight to Wells Marine to get it insured, NC Wildlife Resources to get it registered and finally over to the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary website to sign up for my Vessel Safety Check.
Within 24 hours, local USCG Aux volunteer Herb Bobbitt called me up and scheduled a vessel inspection which took no time at all. I was well prepared with all of the essential items and then some. He checked down the list, handed me my sticker, gave me a handshake, and off we went about our days. Super friendly, super easy, and I'm super stoked to get out on the water knowing I'm safe and prepared.
Why else should you schedule a vessel safety check? That little U.S. Coast Guard / Auxiliary Decal lets everyone from Coast Guard / Auxiliary to Harbor Patrol to Sheriff/Police, Wildlife Resources, and other boating law-enforcement & safety agencies see that your boat was in full compliance with all Federal and State boating laws as well. Best of all, every Vessel Safety Check is 100% Free of charge!
If you happen to not pass, there's no penalty. They just let you know what needs to be fixed, and you simply schedule another appointment. Win/win situation.
The inspection is good for one year up until December 31st. At that point you just need to reschedule for the new year, which is good, because fire extinguishers, flares, and batteries need to be replaced every so often.
Below is a sample list of things that are checked:
- Life Jackets
- Registration and numbering
- Navigation lights
- Ventilation
- Fire extinguishers
- Distress signals (flares, horn, etc.)
- Battery cover and connections
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 pulled over on the water and inspected by the Coast Guard.
If you get your vessel inspected, give us a call and see if we can't help work with on your boat insurance. 910-762-8551 or email our Marine Manager Jason Riley. jriley@wellsins.com