Boat Documents.

[nicho]

Where do you keep yours?

I mean the Part 1 Registration Card, the Bills of sale, proof of VAT etc etc.

I'm not sure whether to keep them (they are in a single book file) on board or at home. What if the boat is stolen (unlikely hopefully) - would it help thieves to getaway with it? I have copies of everything at home (130 miles away), but do like to have the originals handy, on board, just in case of any last minute trip to France. I could take the file back and forth, but would undoubtedly forget it just at the time I need them!!

Any risk in leaving them on board? What does the panel think/do?

 

[Nautibusiness]

DO NOT keep originals onboard.

Get laminated copies of all the originals and keep them onboard.

Keep the originals in a very safe place at home.

Tom

 

[nicho]

That's my gut feeling too - but am I right in thinking the French Authorities will not accept copies of these documents, particularly proof of VAT payment?

 

[PlanB]

There are numerous tales on this forum of French (and otheer foreign) officials fining skippers for not having original documents on board.
I'd have copies at home, and keep the originals on board, well-hidden and in a waterproof cover.

 

[Forty_Two]

Don't leave them on the boat. Take the originals with you every time you visit the boat & get Notarised copies (any solicitor) of the bill of sale, invoices & VAT stuff to leave in a safe place at home or with someone else.

 

[splosh]

Originals required on board when visiting Europe, photocopies certainly not accepted!

Now, you wouldnt take a photocopy of your passport would you?

 

[Nautibusiness]

....I've personally never had an issue with copies.

I take the point about passport originals and not copies so if you can get in the habit of taking originals each and everytime then so be it, but don't ever EVER leave them onboard.

 

[nicho]

Thanks guys - my intention from here on, is to take the file of originals back and forth to the boat when we go, and not leave them on board.

Cheers all