Licensing
The "Six-Pack" License (OUPV) and What Charter Insurers Ask
A "six-pack" is a common name for a U.S. Coast Guard Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV) license, which generally allows a captain to carry up to six paying passengers on an uninspected vessel. Carrying more generally involves a Master license and an inspected vessel, and insurers commonly ask about all of it.
The basics
An uninspected passenger vessel generally carries no more than six passengers for hire. Vessels that carry more passengers for hire typically must be inspected by the Coast Guard and hold a Certificate of Inspection, with a Master licensed captain. Requirements vary by vessel and route, so confirm with the Coast Guard.
What insurers commonly ask
- Captain's license type, endorsements and years of experience
- Vessel type, size, passenger capacity and inspection status
- Operating area and the type of trips
- Safety equipment, drills and safety procedures
- Loss history
Why it matters
Coverage terms and eligibility can depend on whether the captain and vessel meet the applicable requirements. Operating outside what your license or vessel allows can create a coverage problem as well as a legal one.
Next step
Read our licensing basics, confirm the rules with the Coast Guard, and then talk to an agent about the details. This is general background, not legal advice.
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