Buying a yacht is a dream for many people, but there are a number of regulations to be aware of before embarking on this adventure. Sailing your own boat requires you to comply with certain rules and administrative procedures.
Steps to take before buying a yacht
To own a yacht, you need to follow a number of essential steps:
- Making an offer to purchase: the first step is to make an offer to purchase to the seller of the boat. This offer must be in writing and signed by the buyer, the seller and, if applicable, the broker if you are buying through a professional.
- Carry out a sea trial: before finalising the purchase, it is advisable to carry out a sea trial to check that the yacht meets your expectations and has no hidden defects.
- Survey the yacht: this is a crucial stage in ensuring that the boat complies with current standards and is in good general condition. The independent surveyor will provide a detailed report with his conclusions.
- Take out insurance: you will need to take out civil liability insurance to be able to sail your yacht. This covers damage caused to third parties while using the boat.
Registering your yacht
Registration is a compulsory step before you can sail a yacht. Depending on the nationality of the owner and where the boat is used, there are several options available:
Registration in France
If the owner lives in France and the yacht will be used mainly in French waters, it is preferable to register the yacht in France. To do this, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A copy of the purchase invoice or contract of sale
- A de-registration certificate (if the boat was previously registered)
- The European certificate of conformity (for a new boat) or a survey report (for a second-hand boat)
- Proof of civil liability insurance
- Proof of identity and address
Foreign registration
For owners living outside France or wishing to use their yacht mainly in international waters, it may be worth considering foreign registration. In this case, the procedures vary depending on the country chosen, and it is advisable to check with the relevant local authorities.
Compliance with safety and environmental standards
To be able to sail your yacht legally, you must comply with current safety and environmental standards. These include
- Compliance with speed limits in certain areas
- Use compulsory safety equipment (lifejackets, fire extinguishers, etc.)
- Regularly checking the condition of the boat and carrying out maintenance work if necessary
- Compliance with marine pollution prevention rules (waste water treatment, use of antifouling paints without biocides, etc.).
Seller’s warranty and liability
In the event of hidden defects or failure of the yacht to comply with the standards in force at the time of purchase, the seller may be held liable. It is therefore important to check the documents provided by the seller at the time of the transaction, in particular the European certificate of conformity for a new yacht or the survey report for a used yacht.
To sum up, buying a yacht requires a good knowledge of the regulations in force, as well as the steps to be taken to ensure that the boat is compliant and safe. Once these steps have been taken, you’ll be able to enjoy your new acquisition to the full, and sail with complete peace of mind.
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