When it comes to superyacht registration, displaying the correct hailing port is more than just a formality, it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re refitting, buying pre-owned, or commissioning a new build, it’s essential to understand the laws and best practices surrounding hailing ports. Let Lumenautica give you an overview.

What Is a Hailing Port?

Just as a quick reminder, a hailing port is the home port or location where a vessel is registered not necessarily where the owner lives. It’s usually a city and country like Valletta, Fort Lauderdale or George Town.

Hailing Port Legal Requirements

While there are some variations across key registries such as the Cayman Islands and Malta and the size of vessel, there are clear commonalities. 

  • Where is the hailing port is to be placed:  it must be displayed at the stern of the vessel.
  • How is a hailing port to be fixed: IMO guidelines require it to be permanently fixed to the hull.
  • What font should be used: There is no definitive font, but it must be clear, legible and easy to see from a distance. Play it safe and keep away from script fonts. Here’s a link for free fonts website.
  • What is the size of a hailing port: 100mm minimum is a good rule to follow. Any smaller will make it difficult to see from a distance.  

Best Practices for Superyacht Hailing Port Signs

So you know what the requirements are, now you can decide how to execute them to your style and branding.  Here’s some ideas and what Lumenautica offers:

  • Using 316L marine grade stainless steel for maximum corrosion resistance
  • Choosing a mirror-polished finish for an elegant, high-end look
  • Express your individuality with painted stainless steel fronts to match your yacht’s colour scheme or edgy designer carbon fibre if that’s your vibe
  • Adding LED backlighting for visibility during night-time mooring and charters
Stern view of a superyacht showing clearly visible hailing port city of Fort Lauderdale made in Carbon Fibre from Lumenautica

Why Choose Lumenautica?

At Lumenautica, we work with clients across the globe from Florida and the Mediterranean and from UAE to Singapore to craft on-brand mirror-polished stainless steel hailing port signs that are compliant, visually stunning, and made to last. Every sign is precision engineered and custom-built to meet your exacting standards while enhancing the vessel’s design.

Our team collaborates closely with captains, owners’ reps, designers, and shipyards to ensure every hailing port meets legal and aesthetic standards without delay.

Need help with your hailing port signage?

Whether you’re preparing a vessel for inspection or sale, or registering your vessel and only need a new hailing point, our team is here to make it simple. Get in touch for expert advice and a tailored quote.