Michigan's Great Lakes market is one of the cleanest in the country — freshwater means far less corrosion than coastal states. But Michigan's compressed summer season drives intense seasonal use, and improper winter storage is a leading cause of hull cracks, freeze damage to raw-water cooling systems, and delamination. Many Michigan boats change hands in fall after a short season; buyers may be purchasing a boat without seeing it in action on warm water. Verify the title and check the accident record before buying.
What a Michigan Boat History Report Checks
✓Stolen vessel recordsSTOV
✓Maritime lien filingsMARC
✓Salvage & auction recordsVESA
✓USCG accident recordsBARD
✓Marine casualty & pollutionCASP
✓Manufacturer recall noticesRECA
✓USCG documented vesselsMERV
Frequently Asked Questions
Is freshwater boating in Michigan safer to buy?
Freshwater reduces corrosion risk compared to saltwater states, but Michigan boats still carry risks including freeze damage, improper winterization, and engine issues from compressed seasonal use. A HullScore report checks accident records, theft, liens, and salvage history regardless of water type.
Does Michigan require a boat title?
Yes. Michigan requires a Certificate of Title for all motorized vessels and watercraft 12 feet or longer. Always verify clear title before completing a used-boat purchase.
How do I check a boat's accident history in Michigan?
A HullScore report includes records from the USCG federal accident database (BARD), which covers reported accidents on Michigan waters from 2009 to 2023. Enter the 12-character HIN to run a full check.
Buying a used boat in Michigan?
Know what the seller won't tell you. Run a boat history report before you buy.