What is the primary purpose of the boat's registration?

The primary purpose of a boat's registration is to identify the boat and establish ownership. Registration creates a distinctive identification number for the vessel, which is often displayed on the boat. This number helps authorities identify the boat on the water, ensuring that it is associated with a specific owner. This identification is crucial for law enforcement, as it aids in preventing theft and allows for the tracking of vessels. Furthermore, a registered boat can help facilitate legal ownership disputes and is often a requirement for legal operation of the vessel in many jurisdictions.

While the other options may relate to aspects of boating, they don't capture the primary purpose of registration. Seaworthiness, insurance, and boating history are important considerations but fulfill different roles regarding boat safety, liability, and maintenance, rather than identifying the boat and confirming its ownership.