Is a Gib-registered yacht a non-EU boat?

Created by doina. Last modified on 2006-01-31 22:19:47
Topic: VAT

Would a boat purchased in Sweden in 1996, subsequently registered in Gibraltar and sailed in Turkish waters since then be considered a non-EU boat?

If I understand well, this is not a matter of being a EU or non-EU boat. Gibraltar is in the EU, so boats registered in Gib are EU boats, BUT if VAT was not paid in Sweden in 1996, then you will be liable for VAT if you spend some time in the EU. As long as you stay in Turkey, or any other non-EU country, you are OK. But if you sail to a EU country you may be asked about your VAT status, although - technically - as a Gibraltar registered yacht you should be alright. However, it all depends on the attitude of the customs official you deal with. Basically, if the skipper and crew have EU passports, sooner or later you may be asked about VAT.