Yacht acquisition is a multi-stage process involving legal, financial, technical and regulatory decisions that determine both security of ownership and investment efficiency. Our team focuses on developing an individual, practical solution. We align the client’s objectives with the vessel’s intended use and the key parameters – ownership structure, tax considerations and regulatory requirements.
This allows an effective transaction structure to be established from the outset, avoiding costly mistakes and legal obstacles across jurisdictions. We maintain legal oversight of the process, coordinating interaction with brokers, surveyors, registries and insurers – and protecting the buyer’s interests at every stage.
Deal Planning
Legal & Technical Due Diligence
Agreements & Structuring
Secure Payment
Delivery & Transfer
Ownership & Tax Setup
Planning the Deal
At the outset, we define the transaction format, registration jurisdiction and intended use of the yacht — private or commercial. We assess realistic timelines and budget.
Legal Due Diligence
We verify title, registration documents and the vessel’s history. We identify encumbrances, arrests, mortgages, liens and hidden liabilities, and assess potential sanctions exposure, technical and classification documents, repair and incident history.
Preliminary Agreements
We draft the letter of intent or memorandum of agreement, define deposit terms, inspection schedules and sea trial conditions.
Independent Survey
We structure escrow arrangements, staged payments, bank and notary confirmation. We agree on exchange rate arrangements, where applicable, and monitor payment timelines.
Sale and Purchase Agreement
We draft and negotiate the sale and purchase agreement: transfer terms, document checklist, risk allocation, warranties and liability provisions. We also prepare escrow arrangements and brokerage contracts, structuring the transaction with regard to confidentiality and tax efficiency.
Secure Payment
We structure escrow arrangements, staged payments, bank and notary confirmation. We fix the exchange rate and monitor payment timelines.
Pre-Delivery Preparation
We obtain debt and encumbrance clearance certificates, prepare powers of attorney, arrange insurance coverage for the transition period and confirm the inventory list with all parties.
Delivery & Transfer
We coordinate the signing of the protocol of delivery and acceptance, issue the full documentation package and record the vessel’s actual condition on the delivery date.
Post-Closing Registration
We advise on flag and jurisdiction selection, register ownership with the relevant authorities, obtain vessel documentation, including a radio licence, and arrange name or port of registry changes where required.
Operational Matters
We assist with yacht management agreements, marina and berthing arrangements, crew-related matters and insurance structuring, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.
Tax & Customs
We analyse VAT and customs implications, including temporary importation regimes, and structure ownership and operation in a tax-efficient manner.
Dispute Support
Where issues arise, we represent clients in claims related to deposits, defects, delays, contractual breaches and other disputes, including arbitration and court proceedings.
