Vessel documentation stands as a nationwide method of registration, boasting historical roots tracing back to the 11th Act of the First Congress. Serving as a pivotal and enduring governmental function, documentation furnishes irrefutable proof of nationality on an international scale. Moreover, it facilitates seamless commerce among states and grants vessels access to specific controlled sectors, including coastwise trade and fisheries. Since 1920, the realm of vessel financing has witnessed augmentation through the introduction of preferred mortgages tailored for documented vessels.