Choosing A Boat Name: Traditions And Superstitions

Naming a boat is a time-honoured tradition, and it's also a requirement for commercial boats by the U.S. Coast Guard. There are a few rules to follow, such as keeping the name short and avoiding offensive language, but aside from that, the world is your oyster. You could go for a traditional name, like the ancient Greeks who named their boats after gods and goddesses, or something more modern, like a pun on your profession. Whatever you choose, it's a chance to get creative and give your vessel a unique identity.

Choosing a name

Keep it Short and Sweet

A short name is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves a practical purpose. It should be easy to read and fit on the transom, with a maximum length of 33 characters. This ensures clarity during radio communications and makes it simpler to convey your boat's name when needed.

Honour Loved Ones

A time-honoured tradition is to name your boat after a special woman in your life. This could be a family member, such as your wife, mother, or grandmother. By incorporating their name, you add a personal touch and symbolise the bond and camaraderie shared on your maritime journeys.

Reflect Your Profession or Hobby

Infusing your profession or hobby into the boat's name adds a unique layer of personality. For instance, doctors might opt for "Knot on Call" or "Doctor's Orders", while lawyers could choose "Sea Trial" or "Miss Demeanor". It's a great way to showcase your interests and spark conversations with fellow boaters.

Embrace Puns and Wordplay

Puns and double meanings are a fun way to make your boat's name stand out. Attorneys, for example, might choose names like "Alibi" or "Plead Insanity", showcasing their legal expertise with a playful twist. A witty and humorous name is sure to bring a smile to your face and foster a sense of community on the water.

Draw Inspiration from Art and Culture

Pay homage to your favourite song, movie, or any other cultural work that resonates with you. Whether it's a nod to a classic like "Pirates of the Caribbean" or a beloved song like "Margaritaville", infusing your boat's name with references adds a touch of flair and nostalgia to your voyages.

Think of the Boat's Personality

If you've spent some time sailing, you may have noticed that your boat has its own unique quirks and characteristics. Consider a name that captures its personality and the mood you want to convey. Think about names that suggest relaxation, fun, adventure, or romance—anything that reflects your values and lifestyle.

Remember, the most important aspect of choosing a boat name is to have fun with it and create a moniker that truly resonates with you. Once you've found the perfect name, you can move on to the exciting part: christening your boat and setting sail on new adventures!

Name placement

Naming a boat is a fun way to make your vessel your own, and there are several rules and traditions to consider when it comes to name placement. Here are some guidelines and suggestions:

• Transom: The transom, or stern, of the boat is a traditional place to display the name. It is a clearly visible exterior part of the hull, as required by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) for federally documented vessels. However, some people prefer to avoid putting the name on the transom due to space constraints or aesthetic concerns, especially if they have a smaller boat or prefer a more subtle look.
• Sides of the Boat: Another option is to place the name on the sides of the boat, usually near the stern. This can provide more space for longer names and avoid potential clutter on the transom due to other elements like the boat logo or graphics. However, some people consider it less visually appealing and may prefer to keep the sides free for a cleaner look.
• Port and Starboard Bow: For commercial documented vessels, the boat's name must also be displayed on the port and starboard bow, in addition to the stern. This ensures visibility from multiple angles.

Additional Considerations:

• Size and Font: The USCG requires that boat names be displayed in letters at least four inches in height and made with durable, clearly legible letters of the Latin alphabet or Arabic/Roman numerals. Bold lettering is recommended to ensure visibility even in adverse weather conditions.
• Permanence: The name must be permanently affixed to the boat. This can be done through painting, stick-on vinyl letters, or other means that result in durable markings.
• Hailing Port: For federally documented vessels, the hailing port must also be displayed together with the boat's name on the stern or, alternatively, on the sides of the boat. The hailing port includes both the place and the state, territory, or possession of the United States, with the state being abbreviated.
• Registration Numbers: In addition to the name and hailing port, boats are required to display registration numbers issued by the state. These are typically placed towards the bow on the port and starboard sides and must meet specific size and colour requirements.
• Interior Markings: For documented vessels, the official number assigned by the USCG must be marked in block-type Arabic numerals at least three inches high on a clearly visible interior structural part of the hull. This marking must be permanent and any alteration, removal, or replacement would cause scarring or damage to the surrounding hull area.

Name length

When it comes to naming your boat, it's important to keep the name concise and memorable. A long name may be difficult to read from a distance and could be a mouthful during VHF radio communications. Imagine trying to convey a lengthy name amidst crackling radio static!

The US Coast Guard recommends a maximum of 33 characters for boat names. This limit is to ensure the name is clearly visible and legible on the boat's hull. The name should be at least four inches in height and permanently affixed to the boat using paint or vinyl lettering. Some sources suggest keeping the name to two or three words maximum.

A short name will also be more aesthetically pleasing on the transom (the flat or curved surface on the boat's stern). If you opt for a longer name, you may need to display it on the sides of the boat instead, which can look crowded, especially if there are other graphics or logos.

When brainstorming names, keep in mind that the name should be easy to pronounce and roll off the tongue. You want a name that's memorable, not just for you but for anyone who hears it.

Christening the boat

Now that you've settled on a name for your boat, it's time to christen it! This tradition dates back to ancient Greek times when people wore wreaths of olive branches and drank wine to honour the gods. In the Middle Ages, two friars would board the boat and bless it before its maiden voyage. Essentially, this type of ceremony is meant to invoke the protection of the gods and keep the sailors safe during long and perilous journeys.

• Gather your friends and family: Invite your loved ones to join you in this special ceremony. Their presence will make the occasion even more memorable.
• Prepare a celebratory drink: Champagne is the traditional choice, but you can also offer mocktails or other sparkling beverages. Don't forget to save the bottle for the final step!
• Give a small speech: Share a few words about your boat, your feelings, and your hopes for future adventures. You can even read a poem or write your own toast.
• Place a branch of green leaves on the deck: This symbolic gesture represents a safe return to land for the boat and its crew.
• Break the champagne bottle: Traditionally, the bottle is broken against the boat's hull. However, to prevent damage to the body of the boat, you can aim for the metal rails instead. Don't forget to keep the broken glass in a bag to avoid any debris falling into the water or onto your boat.

Remember, christening your boat is not just a formality, but a chance to infuse your vessel with personality and meaning. It's a way to celebrate and honour the adventures that lie ahead.

So, raise a toast to your boat, break the bottle, and get ready to set sail on new and exciting journeys!

Registration and documentation

To establish ownership and the vessel's nationality, it is advisable to obtain a USCG Certificate of Documentation. Eligibility requirements include whole ownership by a U.S. citizen and a minimum vessel size of five net tons. Federal documentation requires displaying the vessel's name and hailing port on the stern transom or its sides, with letters at least four inches tall. The registration number, issued by the state, must be displayed on the forward side of the boat, with letters and numbers at least three inches high and in a colour that contrasts with the boat. These markings must be permanent.

For boats that do not meet the weight requirement for federal documentation, state registration is an alternative. Each state has its own set of requirements for registration numbers, placement, and markings. In California, for example, there is no requirement to name a boat, only to register and display the registration numbers and stickers.

Frequently asked questions