Buying a UK flagged motoryacht which is moored in Spain

[dannytsg]

After a long time looking I have found quite a nice UK flagged motor yacht for sale which is currently moored in a marina in Spain. Having had discussions with the seller, they have told me that it has been moored in Spain for a significant amount of time (think more than 5 years), used locally but never transited outside of Spanish waters in that time.

The owner is UK based and lives about 45 minutes from me in the UK so face to face discussions and document review is possible.

My intention would be to have as a floating home away from home on the transferable mooring but motor throughout the Med on longer journeys in time.

Am I right in thinking there may be an issue here with customs due to the TL not being reset for 1 day per 18 month period and if so, what could I fall foul of if I purchase?

TIA

 

[Bobc]

If the boat was in the EU on Dec 31st 2020, and you can get proof of that, then the boat will be deemed EU VAT-paid, and so you won't have to take it out every 18mths.

 

[dannytsg]

If the boat was in the EU on Dec 31st 2020, and you can get proof of that, then the boat will be deemed EU VAT-paid, and so you won't have to take it out every 18mths.

That’s brilliant.

I’ll see if I can get confirmation on that.