About C-PORT

C-PORT (Conference of Professional Operators for Response Towing) was founded in 1986 to meet the needs of the nascent Marine Assistance Industry. C-PORT is committed to representing its members with all federal, state and local organizations while encouraging the industry's growth and development.  C-PORT is dedicated to promoting professionalism and good business practices throughout its membership by providing programs and education designed for the professional marine assistance towing and salvage company.

Our members are dedicated to providing prompt, professional and timely assistance to all boaters and to actively partner and cooperate with local law enforcement and U.S. Coast Guard. They are professionals, dedicated to the growth and development of their respective businesses and committed to furthering the advancement of our waterways and the boating community.

Highlights of the last decade:

  • C-PORT introduces the ACAPT certification program for assistance towing vessels. The USCG, in its partnership with C-PORT, fully supports ACAPT as an industry-regulated program that recognizes those companies which have maintained a high standard of professionalism and safety.
  • C-PORT submitted comments to Congress regarding the proposed inspection of ALL towing vessels.
  • C-PORT introduces a Safety Management System (SMS) training course for assistance towing captains. Development of the program is ongoing and the class is now taught online.
  • C-PORT introduces comprehensive Company and Crew Guidelines, written as templates to be used by member companies.
  • C-PORT attends the Dept. Of Homeland Security Small Vessel Summit to discuss concerns and issues posed by small vessels being used by terrorist in the maritime domain of the United States.

    • Current Accomplishments and Ongoing Tasks:

    • C-PORT is actively represented at TSAC (Towing Safety Advisory Committee) which advises the Coast Guard on marine industry regulations.
    • Renewed USCG-C-PORT Partnership Agreement signed.
    • C-PORT and NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) sign a Memorandum of Understanding with actionable items and strategic planning.
    • USCG Sector Representative Program developed in an effort to encourage stronger relationships with local USCG Sectors.
    • Work with USCG through TSAC on continuing development of Vessel Inspections Regulations and new credential scheme.
    • Continued interaction with Dept. of Homeland Security, US Coast Guard, NASLA, Congress, state and local agencies, marine insurance providers, boating public and other maritime industry professionals.