Click for Westport Click for Abeking Click for YF Listing Service Click for Cross Click for Burger

Anyone go through the process of obtaining a COI from the Coast Guard?

Discussion in 'General Yachting Discussion' started by FLANICK, Dec 7, 2021.

You need to be registered and signed in to view this content.
  1. FLANICK

    FLANICK New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 18, 2021
    Messages:
    6
    Location:
    Florida
    Hey everyone. I am trying to establish a scuba diving boat charter business in Florida and have been trying to learn the process of obtaining a COI and all that is needed to run my business legally.

    I've spoken to the coast guard office as well as a few captains and other people that have been through the process but it still seems fairly confusing. The biggest questions I have would be:

    1. Is a COI even necessary to run a diving boat charter business?
    2. What does the process look like?
    3. How much better is it to purchase a boat that has an existing COI than one that currently doesn't have one? (We have identified two boats that fit the bill. The one we like a lot doesn't have a COI, the one we may have to settle on currently does have a COI)
    Thank you for any and all feedback. Any other information that you all think might be relevant is definitely appreciated as well.
  2. Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 29, 2008
    Messages:
    8,120
    Location:
    Miami, FL
    You don’t need a COI if you don’t take more than 6 passengers

    it is a fairly complex process which usually involves significant modifications incl taller railings, fireproofing etc. you also need to provide stability information which may be difficult.
  3. Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

    Joined:
    Sep 8, 2004
    Messages:
    12,649
    Location:
    Satsuma, FL
  4. FLANICK

    FLANICK New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 18, 2021
    Messages:
    6
    Location:
    Florida
    Thanks for the reply. Is that 6 passengers including myself and crew or 6 passengers and then additionally myself and crew?
  5. FLANICK

    FLANICK New Member

    Joined:
    Nov 18, 2021
    Messages:
    6
    Location:
    Florida
  6. Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 29, 2008
    Messages:
    8,120
    Location:
    Miami, FL
    6 passengers. Crew is not included. Obviously.

    what license do you have? OUPV?