New Year, Same Old Mistake? Don’t Trust That “Clean” Boat Title

It's the start of a new year - please don't make the same old mistakes! As we welcome 2026, many are eager to kick off the year with a new boat. But 2026 should not be the year you learn the hard way that a clean title doesn't necessarily mean a clean history. In fact, … Continue reading New Year, Same Old Mistake? Don’t Trust That “Clean” Boat Title

Moving IAMI Forward: Board Strategy, Training Wins, and How to Get Involved

Earlier this month I spent several days in Tulsa with the International Association of Marine Investigators Board of Directors, planning how we can continue to move IAMI forward. As Second Vice President, I am incredibly proud of the momentum around membership growth, education, and collaboration with partners across the marine industry. What we worked on … Continue reading Moving IAMI Forward: Board Strategy, Training Wins, and How to Get Involved

What the pandemic taught us about handling stress and how boating curbs the impact

With the pandemic still going strong and new variants emerging regularly, boating continues to be at the forefront of safe and effective ways to spend time outdoors, relieve stress, and invite calm into your life. Did you know that in 1900, John Elfreth Watkins, Jr., the curator of mechanical technology at the Smithsonian Institution, predicted … Continue reading What the pandemic taught us about handling stress and how boating curbs the impact

Are You Smarter than a Hurricane?

With the height of hurricane season upon us, it's imperative that you know what to do to quickly and safely secure your boat. When Jim Cantore starts broadcasting from your city, you don't have time to research "how to..." articles. Your first priority should always be the safety of your family and self. Once you … Continue reading Are You Smarter than a Hurricane?

Is Boat History Report legit?

Boat History Report is the only company that works with all 50 states and Canada, the USCG, the National Insurance Crime Bureau, law enforcement, insurance and finance companies, salvage auctions, marine surveyors and hundreds of additional sources. Not other service has the coverage of scale of Boat History Report!

How do you check if a boat is stolen?

How do you check if a boat is stolen? Did you know that if you buy stolen property, law enforcement can take it from you without any consideration for the money you've spent to purchase it? If it's a small item, it might not hurt as much. But what if you spent $15,000 or more … Continue reading How do you check if a boat is stolen?

How do I look up a boat VIN number?

How do I look up a boat VIN number? If you’re trying to obtain a boat's VIN, or hull identification number - HIN as they are referred to in the boating industry, you can use Boat History Report (BoatHistoryReport.com) to run the state registration number or US Coast Guard Documentation number.  If you are unsure … Continue reading How do I look up a boat VIN number?

Judging a Boat by Its Gelcoat

Picture yourself enjoying a Saturday on the water when suddenly your boat bursts into flames or starts taking on water. Sound terrible? Without knowing the history of a boat before you buy, this nightmare could become a reality quicker than you think. Boats are frequently involved in accidents that cause lasting consequences for owners down … Continue reading Judging a Boat by Its Gelcoat

Are You Cruisin’ For A Bruisin’?

The groundhog missed his shadow- SPRING IS ON THE WAY!  Some people see picnics.  Some people see flowers.  And if you’re like me, you see boats and fish and beer and sunblock and any other number of things to do on the water!  But… lets rewind for a minute before we take off cruisin’- is … Continue reading Are You Cruisin’ For A Bruisin’?