Vessel Safety Check Schedule

A Vessel Safety Check can be done anytime of the year and at any place you keep your boat.  We will come to your location to perform the check. If you would like to have your vessel examined, please see the contact information below to schedule a check with one of our examiners. 

Frequently asked questions about the VE Program

What is a Vessel Safety Check (VSC)?

A Vessel Safety Check is a courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment that is required by State and Federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. In addition to checking for required safety items, they will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater.

What are the number one reasons a vessel might not pass a safety check?

The number one issues we run into are a lack of visual distress signals, navigation lights which are not working, and a no State/Federal regulations (Rules of the Road) on board.

• Visual Distress Signals: Always double-check to make sure your flares have not passed the expiration date.
• Navigation Lights: Even if you never go out at night, you still need to have working navigation lights.
• State/Local Regulations: Always make sure to carry a copy of both Federal as well as SC DNR regulations.

If I don’t have the proper equipment, will I be given a citation?

NO !!  This is not boarding or a law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. We will supply you with a copy of our evaluation so that you may follow some of the suggestions given. Vessels that pass will be able to display our distinctive VSC decal. This does not exempt you from law enforcement boarding, but you can be prepared to make this a positive encounter. 

Above Photo: Performing a VE at Folly Beach, SC. 

How long does it take to examine my vessel? 

This depends upon the size of your vessel, the number of safety items which need to be checked, and any questions you may have. Your vessel examiner will discuss any items you may have questions about, as it is our goal that you be well informed on boating & water safety. There is no rush, so if you are new to boating we are here to help you in any way we can. As a general rule of thumb however, most VSC’s take 10-15 minutes.

How much does it cost?

Nothing !!  The Vessel Safety Check program is a complimentary service that we offer to the boating public. 

If I pass inspection, will I be able to lower my boaters insurance rates?

Insurance companies will sometimes offer discounted rates to those whose boats have passed a safety inspection. Not all companies have the same policies, so this is something you would need to discuss with your insurance agent. You should also ask your insurance agent about possible discounts for successful completion of the ABS course. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary offers what’s known as an ABS (About Boating Safely) course. This will give you an in-depth knowledge and understanding of boating safety, different types of boats, necessary and recommended safety items, and State & Federal regulations. 

I can't have my boat at the landings on the dates listed above. Can I still get my vessel examined?

Absolutely! Simply check the right-hand side of the page for a list of vessel examiners in our area, and their contact information. 

How often should I have a vessel safety check?

The vessel safety check decals are good through December 31st, so we would recommend having a vessel safety check once per year. This will not only keep your boat current on its safety decal, it will keep you informed of any changes to State and Federal regulations.

How often does the Auxiliary go to boat landings for vessel safety checks?

• If you are in trouble and send a distress call over a VHF radio it is received not only by the Coast Guard but by vessels that are nearby who may be able to offer assistance. A cell phone will only let you communicate to one person at a time, and unless you know the people in the boat next to you, you are unable to communicate from ship-to-ship by phone.
• A VHF radio is the quickest way to receive storm warnings, small craft advisories, and other urgent information from the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard will broadcast this information on VHF Channel 16.
• When you’re in distress, every minute counts. Pinpointing your location is more difficult with a cell phone than it is with a VHF radio. Unless you know your exact location, the Coast Guard will have a tougher time locating you.
• A VHF radio can be used anywhere in the United States, and anywhere in the world.
• A cell phone is useless to you in event that it gets wet. At the minimum, it will need to be turned off and left to dry for 24 hours, and that's assuming that it can be salvaged. Since they are designed specifically for use on boats, a VHF radio is designed to withstand these potential hazards.
• VHF Radios are inexpensive and there are versions you can purchase that will not be damaged if they get wet.