USCG Sector Southeastern New England (SENE) has issued updated guidance for Spring 2026 inspection scheduling. Due to anticipated high inspection volume and reduced staffing, vessel operators are strongly encouraged to review the information below and schedule early to avoid operational delays.

Spring 2026 Inspection Volume Notice

USCG Sector SENE anticipates a very busy spring inspection period and will be operating with reduced staffing. This will impact the following inspection types:

• 5-year COI-Renewal Inspections
• Annual Inspections
• Drydock Inspections
• Internal Structural Exams

Scheduling Requirements

• Submit inspection requests via email at least 2 weeks in advance.
• Last-minute requests cannot be guaranteed.
• If operating multiple vessels, group inspections together when possible to optimize scheduling.

To schedule by email:
[email protected]

To schedule by phone (if necessary):
(401) 435-2335

All email requests will be confirmed by a member of the inspections scheduling desk or you will be contacted if the requested date is not available.

Inspection Deadline Reminders

5-Year COI Renewal Inspections

• Due by the expiration date indicated on the Certificate of Inspection (COI).
• May be completed up to 30 days prior to the expiration date without affecting the renewal date.

Annual Inspections

• Occur during each of the four years leading up to the COI renewal date.
• May be completed 90 days before or after the renewal date listed on the vessel’s COI.

Drydock & Internal Structural Exams

• Dates are listed on page 2 of the vessel’s COI.
• Must be completed before the listed expiration dates.

Vessels that go past any of these required dates will not be allowed to operate until the applicable inspection is completed.

Recommended Best Practices Before Inspection

• Review COI expiration dates for each vessel.
• Review the applicable Small Passenger Vessel Checklists (T Boat / K Boat).
• Conduct a preliminary self-exam prior to inspection.
• Test all vessel equipment and systems, including batteries, FCC radio certificates, EPIRBs, liferafts, navigation lights, distress signals, first aid kits, fire systems, bilge pumps, and required safety equipment.
• Update the vessel’s Document Binder to reflect current servicing and certifications.
• Remove outdated certificates and servicing reports.
• Schedule inspections 3–4 weeks in advance when possible to guarantee availability.

Information Required Before Scheduling

• When scheduling your inspection, please have the following information in your request:
  • Vessel Name:
  • Official Number:
  • Vessel Type:
  • Hull Material:
  • Vessel Length:
  • Type of Inspection (circle one): 5-year COI / Annual / Drydock / Internal Structural Exam / Other
  • Date your Inspection is Requested:
  • Location Description:
  • Physical Address:
  • Vessel Point of Contact:
  • POC Phone number:
  • POC Email:
  • Comments or Amplifying Information:

East Providence Office Scheduling Update

Effective immediately, vessel operators in the Rhode Island and Southeast Massachusetts marine inspection zones are preferred to schedule inspections by email through the East Providence office.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: (401) 435-2335

This applies only to vessels working through the USCG office in East Providence, RI. Operators working through New Bedford or Cape Cod offices should continue to follow their normal scheduling procedures.

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