(a) All American sailing vessels under five net tons shall be registered with the Collector of Customs of the Virgin Islands, and all such vessels carrying passengers or freight for remuneration shall be required to obtain licenses from him before obtaining clearances. Licenses shall be issued after inspection and approval of the seaworthiness of the craft and condition of equipment and shall be renewed every two years. The requirements for registration and licensing shall be determined by the Collector of Customs and promulgated by regulations prescribed by him, and approved by the Governor.
(b) All vessels carrying passengers or freight between ocean common carriers and the public wharves of the Virgin Islands shall be registered and licensed pursuant to this section. For the purpose of this subsection “vessel” shall not include any vessel which is an integral part of and transported with the ocean common carrier.