boatnaming

Boat naming is the practice of assigning a formal name to a vessel, which serves as its legal and social identity. The name is typically painted on the bow and stern and recorded in official registrations. Names can signal ownership, purpose, or personality, and are used in communications, navigation, and ceremonial contexts at the time of launch or sale.

Among sailors, names and renaming carry superstition. A ship is traditionally considered unlucky to rename; to do so, many traditions call for a renaming ceremony that acknowledges the old name and invokes blessings or protections for the new one. Common elements include a formal declaration, the removal of the old name, and a ceremonial introduction of the new name, sometimes accompanied by a vessel blessing and a bottle of champagne.

In many jurisdictions, the vessel’s name and port of registry must be displayed on the hull and recorded in the national or regional registry. The chosen name is usually required to be unique within the registry and must meet character and profanity restrictions. Additional evidence may include the vessel's official number and registration papers.

Naming conventions vary. Short, pronounceable names are often favored for ease of use and visibility, while nautical or mythological references are common. Some registries impose limits on characters, spaces, or symbols, and names with offensive language are typically prohibited.

Culturally, boat naming blends maritime lore with personal or familial significance. Notable examples include historical ships and private yachts that reflect heritage, sponsors, or literary references. The practice remains a visible aspect of boat ownership, sailing culture, and vessel identity worldwide.