First get the documentation turned in and a receipt. For USCG purposes
that's good because they know they are behind on paperwork. Beyond that
depends on the state. Nevada for example refuses to register a documented
vessel. Washington State doesn't care if it's documented or not they still
register but they call it something else to get around the federal ruling
barring state licensing/registration of federally documented boats. I think
they call it a use permit for state waters or somesuch. However if you have
both do not display the state numbers as the USCG can fine you for that.
I'ts illegal to do so for documented vessels. Check around the rules on
each state's website and ask local people. Do not directly ask the state
especially those like Mass and Cal who are infamous for grubbing money
anyway they can. The local people will know how to handle it the best way.

M.


"Armond Perretta" wrote in message
...
K Pilson wrote:

What are the fines/penalties for having an undocumented boat in
Massachusetts waters?
I assume this would have insurance implications too. Does anybody
know? Thanks,

There are very likely no penalties. Documentation for pleasure boats is
optional and if MA is like other states your friends will already have a
state registration. That aside if the folks at Gettysburg (i.e., the
Documentation Office) are the culprits, or even if this is NOT the case,
it
is unlikely that a penalty will be imposed. The $ megabucks/day penalties
relate to large vessels. This is what happens when the same sets of rules
that are applicable to the Exxon Valdez are later applied to 27 foot
sailboats.

Hey, if the morons in Washington are rounding up innocents on the West
Coast
for having "almost the right fingerprints" or for enjoying a Mojito in
Havana, I guess anything is possible.


--
Good luck and good sailing.
s/v Kerry Deare of Barnegat
http://kerrydeare.home.comcast.net/