Boat signs

A common boat sign indicates the boat’s name for anyone viewing the boat from outside. Virtually all boats are given a name, and the name is often visible on the hull or elsewhere on the boat.

Anyone climbing aboard a boat will see that boat signs can be used for much more than just indicating the name. Among other things, personalised boat signs that welcome and inform visitors and clear labels to help keep order are both common.

Customised boat signs – some examples

Welcome

For “boat people”, a boat is just as much a home as their land-based residence. In which case, there should be a personalised welcome sign – preferably with a nautical theme. 

Name

There is no requirement for all boats to have the name on the hull. However, name plates on boats are very common, especially on larger boats. A name plate can be a nice touch, whether it is on a rowing boat or a larger vessel. Many people choose to write M/S in front of the name. This stands for Motor Ship. 

Information

A boat sign can be used to convey information to those on the boat. This can cover everything from how things are done, for example, “Always flush twice,” to guiding guests to the correct part of the boat using signs.  

Labelling

It is very common for boat signs to be used to label the controls on the instrument panel or cabinets and other storage areas in other parts of the boat. Small, simple signs make it much easier to keep order in areas where space is somewhat limited.