Where is the hull number required to be found on a vessel?

The hull number, also known as the hull identification number (HIN), is a unique identifier for a vessel and is crucial for purposes such as registration, ownership verification, and safety regulation compliance. It is typically required to be displayed in a standardized manner to ensure easy identification.

Having the hull number on the main beam inside the cargo hatch is ideal because it places the number in a secure and less accessible area, helping to prevent tampering or erosion over time. This location is also practical because it’s relatively sheltered from environmental exposure compared to other locations on the exterior of the vessel, such as the stern or any exterior surfaces that are subject to harsh marine conditions.

The other potential options, such as positioning the hull number inside a cabin or solely on the stern, do not comply with the typical regulatory requirements for visibility and protection of the hull number. While placing the number on the hull's highest part (another option) might seem beneficial for visibility, it could lead to wear and tear that could compromise its legibility. Therefore, the placement on the main beam inside the cargo hatch strikes a balance between visibility for compliance checks when necessary and protection against deterioration.