Inflatable - Hull numbers or not?

[Fireman431]

I just picked up a replacement inflatable...

11.5' Boat US brand. Inflatable keel, rigid transom, oars, pump, NO LEAKS! How much, you ask? $80.

There is no title for it, which I really could care less about. The main purpose I want it is truly for life saving needs. I have a Tohatsu 3.5 for it, but i won't ever be using it for pleasure.

My question is: should I bother with the headache of bill of sale (seller is happy to sign one) and get hull #'s and registration for it, or since it is mainly to keep me from bobbing around in the ocean if my boat sinks, or just worry about a ticket (which would be the least of my troubles) if the time ever comes that I need it?

Also, do I need hull #'s to tow it behind the boat on a tender tag line?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Inflatable - Hull numbers or not?

might want to ask this in boating activities and destinations.

Only Floridians would know what the law is there.

nothing with an engine under 10HP needs registering in my area.

 

[mudslinging79]

Re: Inflatable - Hull numbers or not?

i would register it just in case. i know someone who picked up an inflatable free.... found it adrift, no hin, or other registration, so was able to keep it due to salvage. nice boat, no leaks etc. thinking someone had it tied up and it broke loose.

 

[Go Aweigh2452]

Re: Inflatable - Hull numbers or not?

You should check your states laws... they all vary somewhat. Up here in the PNW, we don't have to register them if we use them exclusively to go to/from boat and shore. Any other use and the water police can fine you. Registration here is based on Bill of Sale and age for older ones. I think mine ran $30 when new. The lettering was more expensive...

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Inflatable - Hull numbers or not?

Thanks for the replies. Maybe I'll have to go and actually speak to someone locally.