What does a Certificate of Documentation establish?

A Certificate of Documentation is a key official document for vessels that primarily establishes the vessel's nationality and ownership. It also provides essential details regarding the vessel's permissible trades. This documentation is crucial for a vessel operating in U.S. waters or engaged in foreign commerce, as it provides legal recognition of ownership and nationality, which can affect a vessel's eligibility for certain tax exemptions and benefits under maritime law.

The importance of vessel nationality cannot be understated, as it directly ties to various legal and operational aspects such as the rights under international maritime treaties and regulations. Additionally, the ownership details included in the Certificate facilitate transactions around the vessel and establish a clear chain of title. Therefore, the focus on nationality and ownership, along with trade documentation, makes this answer the most comprehensive and relevant to the nature of the Certificate of Documentation.