Help in getting a COI for existing vessel or new build and who can build in US

Just an average Capt here , not technically advanced when it comes knowing exactly how to get my 1991 26ft single engine regal cat a COI for around 10-12 pass and if it is even possible.
I run a private tour boat business and use this vessel for my various tours on protected waters. , It fits the niche well as far as being clean,comfortable,fuel efficient, shallow draft ,decent ride while looking like a very well keep vessel. This is why sells it ,the nice part not looking like a pontoon boat with cheap uncomfortable chairs.
My question is it possible to get A COI for the boat and if so can someone point me in the right direction as far as people to talk to get this done .
Below is a rough picture of what I would like built as a around a 30 ft vessel .
If anyone knows a builder that can do this if I can not certify my vessel it would be appreciated.
I would think it would be way cheaper to certify my vessel ...but you never know when it come to the marine industry.

 

I don't think you'll be able to certify that boat for 12 passengers. Check the regulations on CFR http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

 

It is not easy to get a boat is approved for 12 passengers (11 + crew will be easier) but I would not be able to say NO without having undertaken various studies. It is best that you consult a naval architec, who knows the rules applicable to the ship, who will speak about specific problems and possible solutions, not opinions.

 

The boat will need to pass an inclining test.

The entire crew and pax weight is lined up on one side and you can only loose 1/2 the freeboard

Weight of 180lb per person, usually sandbags or 55G drums of water. .

 

Talk to a naval architect familiar with the USCG rules for smaller boats. As Fast Fred said you'll need an inclining test, though his description is over-simplified. For twelve passengers there are two types of tests available, one is a simplified stability test and the other is the full inclining test and analysis which may require a set of lines for the boat. In addition to stability there are other requirements must be met.

My understanding is it's easiest to certify a boat by working with the USCG during construction of the boat. However it is possible to certify some boats after construction. An example is the Lindy Lou, an electric launch operated by the Michigan Maritime Museum. It was built and then certified. I created the lines used in the process. http://www.michiganmaritimemuseum.org/onwaterexperiences/

 

Anyone know of a small vessel architect familiar with USCG standards?

 

This may help you: http://www.uscg.mil/pvs/SPV.asp
Also, does your Master license allow you to carry 12 passengers?

 

If you are not wedded to carrying 12 passengers, a passenger vessel under 100 GT which carries 6 or fewer passengers does not require inspection nor need to carry a COI. [46 CFR 175.110(a)(1)].

A lot of aluminum launches or water taxis which transport people in harbors or along rivers fall into such a category.

As far as a stability test is concerned, the owner may perform one at anytime. These tests are often performed after construction because the boat a) usually needs one to satisfy inspection regulations, and 2) the boat usually has dry tanks and less accumulation of crap aboard which must be accounted for in determining the light weight.

If an owner has an existing inspected vessel which has undergone significant modification after completion, the USCG will require that a new stability test be performed to obtain the new light weight data for the vessel. This requirement can kick in if the weight of the vessel changes more than 2% from original or the LCG changes more than 1% of LBP, for example.

 

Stay with a 6 pack and a cardboard box is legal , if ith has the safety gear.

Its the over 6 that has actual boat requirements.