Not sure if boat has USCG/federal or state title but how do you tell if it doesn’t have a Lien on it or if title is clear ?
boat was USCG registration but also has a state title which I thought wasn’t possible legal

is there a site or do you have to call a service like title search for a house if so which ones?

any help appreciated Thanks

If you know what the USCG registration number is/was, then contact USCG documentation and ask if title is clear
So far as State title, check with the county clerks office

You are correct in that it is unusual to have a boat both documented and titled, it is not legal. However, to find out if there are liens, on a state title, the lienholder would appear on the title. On a documented vessel, you have to order an abstract of title from the coast guard. They will not tell you over the phone. If you would like assistance, please give me a call at 573-342-3400. Thank you.