On a clearly visible interior structural part of a documented vessel’s hull, the abbreviation “NO” must precede a documented vessel’s official number. To mark this number, block-type Arabic numerals that are at least three inches high must be permanently affixed. This is so that any removal, replacement, or alteration would be clear, making for scarring or other forms of damage to the surrounding area.
On a clearly visible exterior part of a recreational vessel’s hull, the name and hailing port must be marked together. On the starboard and port bow of a commercial vessel, the name must also be marked. Also for a commercial vessel, the hailing port and vessel name must be marked on the stern. All markings can be made by any means and materials. However, they must result in durable markings that are clearly legible letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic or Roman numerals, while also being at least four inches in height. While the state may be abbreviated, the hailing port markings have to include a place as well as a State, Territory, or possession of in the United States.
How Should a Vessel Be Marked?
