Massachusetts General Laws Part I. Administration of the Government (Ch. 1-182) Ch. 91, § 42

Except as otherwise set forth in this chapter or in section 179 or 180 of chapter 6 or sections 26 to 27D, inclusive, of chapter 9, or any other applicable state or federal law, the office may grant title to an abandoned vessel and any contents therein to a claimant.  Upon certification as required by section 41 and upon payment of any fees or taxes due, the office shall issue the claimant title to the vessel.  The applicant shall be responsible for all costs incurred in transferring title.  If the claimant wishes to operate the vessel, the claimant shall, if required by law, register the vessel with the office in accordance with chapter 90B or document the vessel under the applicable federal requirements.