1304 Protectable Vessel Designs
Chapter 13 of Title 17 protects original designs for vessels that are designed and capable of (I) independently steering a course on or through water through its own means of propulsion, and (ii) carrying and transporting one or more passengers. 17 U.S.C. § 1301. Specifically, Chapter 13 protects the original design of the shape of a vessel hull, deck, or a combination of the two, which makes the article in which the design is incorporated attractive or distinctive in appearance to the purchasing or using public. 17 U.S.C. § 1301 (A) (1). This protection includes a plug or mold. 17 U.S.C. § 1301 (A) (2). Designers are allowed the option of protecting the hull alone, the deck alone, or the hull and the deck in combination.