Email us for a free vessel exam

The Coast Guard Auxiliary's Vessel Safety Check program helps keep you and your passengers safe, and the waters of Rhode Island safe place to boat. When you choose to have your boat inspected for safety, you are doing your part of being a responsible boater.

These safety checks are voluntary, free, confidential, and meant to be an educational experience. The results are not reported to any law enforcement or insurance agencies. You cannot receive any citations. The Vessel Examiners will check for all required items on board your boat and if everything is present and in good working order, they will award a decal to affix to your boat. If you wish, they will also gladly explain the reason for the various safety equipment requirements and explain how safety equipment works.

A Vessel Examiner is an Auxiliarist who has been specially trained to check your boat for safety equipment. The items that are checked include:

Vessel registration numbering
Registration/documentation papers
Personal flotation devices (life jackets)
Visual distress signals
Fire extinguishers
Ventilation
Backfire flame arrestor
Sound producing devices
Battery cover and connection

FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR RECREATIONAL BOATS

Handbook of Rhode Island Boating Laws and Responsibilities Paddlecraft Requirements

Vessel Safety Check inspection form

Paddlecraft inspection form

Note that these same items are required by state and federal laws and, if missing or non-operating, can result in a citation if your vessel is inspected by the Coast Guard. The Vessel Safety Check offered here gives you a risk-free way to check that you meet the legal minimums.

How Do I Get My Boat Examined?

Email us for a free vessel exam or call 401-287-2779

In the meantime, if you would like to conduct you own safety review of your boat, or get more details about the items on the checklist, you might want to visit the Coast Guard Auxiliary's "Virtual Vessel Safety Check" site.