S.C. Code Ann. § 50-23-55: Certificate of title as evidence of ownership; watercraft from other states.

(A) A certificate of title to a watercraft is prima facie evidence of ownership of a watercraft. All watercraft subject to the titling requirements of this chapter must be titled.

(B) No person may acquire a watercraft, subject to the titling requirements of this chapter, without obtaining a certificate of title or in the case of a new watercraft a manufacturer's or importer's statement of origin reflecting the person acquiring the watercraft as the original purchaser as provided in this chapter. In the case of watercraft from other jurisdictions that do not require titling, a bill of sale and proof of registration may be substituted for the title.

(C) No person may dispose of a watercraft subject to the titling provisions of this chapter without transferring to the person acquiring the watercraft a certificate of title reflecting the transfer of the watercraft. In the case of new watercraft, a manufacturer's statement of origin must be delivered to the purchaser. In the case of watercraft from other states or foreign jurisdictions, which do not title such watercraft, a bill of sale and proof of registration may be substituted.