Get a FREE Vessel Safety Check

When it's still too cold to go out on the water, it's the perfect time to think about the next boating season. Why not get ready for the boating season by preparing even before spring-time is here! Did you know that a Vessel Safety Check can be performed even before the boat is put in the water? Even if your boat's already launched, it's never too late to make sure your boat's as safe as it can be.

Use the cold winter months to take a look at the required safety equipment for your boat, by mentally going through this Virtual VSC checklist. That way you can purchase the items that you are missing in the winter months when they are on sale. Then incorporate the VSC into your spring-time launch plan. As soon as you know your planned launch date, contact the Vessel Safety Check Chair (see contact info on the right side) and set up an appointment for a VSC a couple of days before or after your launch.

Once you have successfully passed the Vessel Safety Check and you boat fulfills all requirements, you will be awarded a VSC decal to display on their boat.

This VSC decal is recognized by law-enforcement agencies, such as the US Coast Guard and Massachusetts Environmental Police, and while it does not change their ability to board your vessel at any time, it will definitely decrease the likelihood of a random boarding of your boat. By seeing the VSC decal, the law-enforcement officers will know that your boat has already been inspected this season and found to be in compliance with safety equipment regulations.

That is also the reason, why the VSC decal is only valid for one particular year - make sure you schedule a Vessel Safety Check each year!

A VSC takes between 20 and 40 minutes – on land or in the water - and it's FREE!

For more information, please contact:

Skip Whittaker, JN
Vessel Safetey Check Chair

If your boat is not located in Marblehead or surrounding towns, click here to locate a Certified Vessel Examiner by ZIP code.