When selling a sailboat, the paperwork you need depends on your location, the size/type of boat, and whether it is federally documented or state-registered. Here’s a breakdown of the most common documents you’ll need:
1. Proof of Ownership
If your state issues titles for sailboats, you must sign over the title to the new owner. If not, a previous registration or manufacturer’s certificate of origin can serve as proof of ownership. Without this, you can’t legally sell a sailboat.
What you will need:
- State Title or Registration Certificate (if the boat is registered at the state level).
- USCG Certificate of Documentation (for documented vessels over 5 net tons, typically boats 25+ feet).
You’ll need to sign over ownership to the buyer on whichever applies.
2. Bill of Sale
The bill of sale is the most important document when you sell a sailboat. It records the transaction details: buyer and seller names, purchase price, hull identification number (HIN), and a description of the sailboat. Most states require this to register the transfer.
What you will need:
Click here to download a general bill of sale for a sailboat.
- A legal document showing the transfer of ownership.
- Should include:
- Names and addresses of buyer and seller
- Date of sale
- Purchase price
- Detailed description of the sailboat (make, model, year, hull identification number (HIN), registration/documentation number)
- Signatures of both parties
Some states have official forms, while in others you can draft your own.
3. Lien Release (if applicable)
If there’s a loan or lien on the boat, you’ll need a lien release from the lender. Without this step, you can’t cleanly sell a sailboat since the buyer would inherit the debt.
What you will need:
- If the boat was financed, you’ll need a lien satisfaction letter or release of interest from the lender before the transfer is valid.
4. Trailer Paperwork (if included)
What you will need:
Click here to download a general sailboat trailer bill of sale.
- Title and registration for the trailer, separate from the boat.
- Bill of sale for the trailer (sometimes combined with the boat bill of sale).
5. Other Helpful Documents
- Maintenance and service records – not required but increases buyer trust.
- Warranty paperwork (if transferable).
- User manuals and sail inventory list (optional, but useful to the buyer).
6. State or Coast Guard Transfer Forms
- Each state has its own transfer/registration requirements (often through the DMV or Department of Natural Resources).
- Some larger sailboats are federally documented with the U.S. Coast Guard. If that’s the case, you’ll need to submit a Bill of Sale (CG-1340) and file for a new Certificate of Documentation (CG-1258) in the buyer’s name.
✅ Tip: Always check your specific state’s boating agency or the USCG National Vessel Documentation Center if your boat is documented. Requirements can vary.
