Buying a French registered boat

[Slaifa]

Good morning all,

I am in the process of buying a 1997 Sealine S37 which is currently lying in Antibes, French registered.

Can anyone give me some good advice regarding re-registration and how if the original documents cannot be traced, can I prove the VAT status.

I would also welcome your experiences of buying and keeping a boat in the south of France.

Regards

Steve Atwell

 

[Whitelighter]

I am doing exactly the same thing right now.

The broker assures me that when they get the certificate of de registration it will state that all taxes including vat are paid.
It does seem in France that the French registration is considered robust enough that it proves ownership, clear title and vat paid.

The problem is of course once you take it off the registry you lose that guarantee. There have also been tales of people getting copies of the original documents supplied upon registration from the local offices. I hope to get my de registration certificate at the end of next week so I'll let you know what it says.

Have you considered using a marine lawyer for handling the papers and registration? Cost is about £750-£1000 and they will a) know what to look for and b) deal more officially with the broker and if necessary the registry, both British and French.

I don't know if the de registration certificate will be accepted by uk banks for a marine mortgage even if it dies state taxes paid - just in case you intend to finance it. Watch this space

 

[Jim@sea]

I bought my 1986 French Registered boat from a French Broker, As part of their service they provided a copy of the original Vat Invoice (Francs) and the French Regristration Document (like a passport) has a photograph of all the previous owners plus addresses and purchase dates. I would have thought at the very least this is what you should get. If not expect problems.