Yes, you read correctly.. You can apply online if you want..
http://wireless.fcc.gov/uls/

However, before you apply, you should deterimine all the other stuff, like
EPIRB, SSB, etc. You can get it all on one license.

Most people that have a Ham license on their boat will also go ahead and get
the Marine SSB license as well.. I think the Ship Station license and the
Marine Operators license cost about $140 total and took about 2 weeks to be
issued.. The FCC site is not very user friendly and may frustrate you as it
did me, however I managed to do the whole thing in about two attempts.

Also you might as well request a Ship Station ID (SSID) as well just in case
you upgrade your VHF now or later..

Since a Ham license requires an exam, you will have to get that seperately.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions