If a fishing vessel is currently registered with the UK Ship Register but is changing ownership either because it is being sold, purchased or inherited, the new owner will have to update the Certificate of Registry and the Fishing Vessel Certificate to reflect the change.

Documents required for change of ownership

Please note, you will need to print off and sign any documents as we cannot accept digital signatures.

• Declaration of Eligibility MSF 4728
• MCA Bill of Sale to the new owner MSF 4705
• Copy of Certificate of Incorporation (if the owner is a body corporate)
• Copy of the Ship's Radio licence with licence holder, applications should be made with Ofcom
• Payment of:
  • £88 for “simple” registration
  • £105 for “full” registration
  • £205 for premium service on “full” registration 

If the vessel has an outstanding mortgage against it, a change of ownership can still be registered, provided the mortgage box is ticked at the bottom of the Bill of Sale. Please be advised that the new owner does not take on ownership of the existing mortgage. Once the change of ownership has been registered, for historic purposes the mortgage will remain on our register‚ under the name of the mortgagor.

A Small Fishing Vessel Certificate, a UK Fishing Vessel Certificate, or an International Fishing Vessel Certificate in the new owners’ name must be issued for the change of ownership to be complete and a Certificate of Registry to be issued. Contact your local MCA Marine Office to arrange an inspection to have the relevant certificates issued.