Frequently asked questions
maintains a list of vessel names, home ports, vital statistics, and ownership records.
What is the origin of boatnameregistry.com?
Boatnameregistry.com has its roots in the marine industry. Through the years, we’ve enjoyed many sailing and powerboating experiences. We’ve also owned marinas. This wide-ranging background has given us access to different varieties and sizes of boats. Through our frequent interactions with boaters, we have become aware that boat owners really (really!) love their boats. In fact, owners often express their personality through their sailboat, powerboat, or personal watercraft. And, what better way to let everyone know about that than through a national boat name registry? So, we created boatnameregistry.com, the #1 way to record your boat name.
How can I determine if my boat name and home port are currently in use?
You can easily determine whether your boat name and home port combination are currently in use in the United States. With just a few clicks, you can browse our searchable database containing over 400,000 registered and documented boat names. Keep in mind that you might find your boat name associated with home ports across your state or even across the country. However, your exact name and home port combination might not be currently in use. If that’s the case, we invite you to register your boat name and home port with boatnameregistry.com (bnr).
How can I record my boat name?
Recording your boat name with bnr is simple, and just takes a few minutes. Complete our short online form, and upload an (optional) photo of your boat that shows its name and home port. By doing that, you’ll claim that name/home port combination in the bnr registry. And, you’ll show off your pride and joy for your fellow boaters. Finally, submit a quick-and-easy online payment, and you’re finished.
Got Questions About BNR?
We’ve Got Answers.
WHAT OUR MEMBERS ARE SAYING
"I spent many months thinking about a name for my boat. I wanted it to be unique and solely mine. BNR gives me the opportunity to protect my boat’s name."
"The tips available on BNR are endless to help in naming your boat. It makes coming up with a personalized and EXCLUSIVE name easy."
"Maintaining a long family tradition was important when we named our boat and taking steps to protect the name and not have it copied was important to us. BNR helps us with that process."
"I sail in a "class" sailing club and the only thing that distinguishes my boat from the others is the name on the transom. I couldn’t wait to register my boat name with BNR to keep others in my class from getting the name first."
Both You and Your Boat Benefit in Many Ways
- NAME PROTECTION – Boat name and home port registered in national BNR database
- Certificate & Decals – Official BNR Ownership Certificate and two full-color 4” decals
- Private Portal – Your personal profile for instant access to critical boat-related information
- Bragging Rights – Upload your boat photo, we’ll post it on our site and social channels
