Shipping a yacht is more than the sea crossing. Before the yacht reaches the ship, and after it comes off, there is a list of smaller tasks that still have to be done.
Whether you are a yacht broker, a captain, a shipyard or the owner, you may well need a hand on one side of the shipment or the other. What people ask for is usually the same. The hard part is finding a reliable supplier in a port you have never worked in.
- Brokers
- Captains
- Shipyards
- Owners
Getting the yacht to the ship
- Marina to portDelivery of the yacht to the loading port. In Europe, a yacht without its own insurance can make the trip on a temporary plate.
- Temporary insuranceCover for that delivery, separate from the transport insurance for the voyage.
- Marina spaceA berth booked near the port while the yacht waits for the ship.
- Shrink wrappingA tight plastic cover against dust, salt and sun during the trip.
- Flag deletionClosing the old registration when the yacht is changing flag.
- Suez and Panama Canal certificatesPrepared ahead for a yacht that will cross either canal under its own power.
Getting it back to sea
- Port to marinaDelivery from the discharge port to the marina, by water or by road.
- Bunkering and refuellingFuel arranged for a yacht that arrived with its tanks run low for shipping.
- Immigration and transit logFormalities for a yacht in transit and for the crew coming aboard.
- Marina spaceA berth ready at the destination when the yacht comes off the ship.
- Food and spare partsProvisions and parts delivered to the yacht so the crew can get going.
Paperwork that takes time
Three of these jobs depend on authorities with their own procedures, so they are worth starting well before the loading date.
Flag deletion
Before a yacht can join a new registry, the old one has to be closed. Registries such as Malta's issue a deletion certificate once any mortgagee has agreed and all dues to the flag are settled, and the new flag asks for proof that the old registration is cancelled.
Transport Malta, UK Ship RegisterSuez Canal
Every vessel needs a Suez Canal Special Tonnage Certificate, on which the transit dues are worked out. Yachts pay the full dues going through, and the return trip is exempt if it takes place within 6 months.
Suez Canal Authority, Rules of NavigationPanama Canal
Yachts up to 38.1 m count as small craft. Before its first transit, a yacht has to be measured by a Canal admeasurer, and the transit details go in at least 96 hours before arrival. Under 65 ft a transit advisor comes aboard, from 65 ft a pilot.
Panama Canal AuthorityGetting ready for the ship
Shrink wrapping is only one part of preparing a yacht. For the full list, from tanks and batteries to antennas and loose gear, have a look at our yacht preparation checklist.
Questions about pre and post services
Can you book a berth for the yacht after discharge?
Yes. Marina space at the destination is one of the post-transport services, together with moving the yacht from the discharge port to that marina.
Why change flag before shipping?
It isn't always needed. When a yacht is sold abroad or moves to a new registry, closing the old registration in good time means the new one isn't held up when the yacht arrives.
The yacht has a mortgage. Can the flag still be deleted?
Usually only with the mortgagee's consent. Registries such as Malta's ask for it before they issue a deletion certificate.
Do you deal with canal paperwork?
Yes, we prepare the Suez and Panama Canal certificates for yachts that will make the crossing under their own power.
Need help before loading or after discharge, from marina delivery to shrink wrapping or bunkering? Tell us what you need and where.
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