Greek Transit Log

[tomcourtney]

A friend of ours with a uk registered boat has been refused a Transit Log. Despite showing proof of vat paid in another eu country 20 years ago The Greek customs have asked for proof the vat has never been refunded, despite the accepted fact that it is practically impossible for a private citizen to achieve this.
He has applied to the country where the vat was paid for evidence that the vat has never been reclaimed but has been unsuccessful in getting evidence to prove a negative.
He may be forced to leave Greek waters shortly, the Cruising Association has not been able to offer any practical assistance.
Anyone else ‘in this boat’?
Any ideas?

 

[Slowboat35]

Just go to another port of entry where the officials are likely to be less bolshie.

 

[JFowler]

I think there’s a misunderstanding here.
The Greeks will issue a non Vat paid boat with a Transit Log. It sounds as if they don’t accept your friends VAT status so should issue a TL. This limits the boat to 18months in Greek waters. If the boat is laid up ashore, deposit the boats papers with the Port Police and that’s stops the clock. After 18months afloat simply leave Greek territorial waters & return to reset the clock.
A boat that is VAT paid before bexit should be issued with an Unlimited TL, which doesn’t have the 18 month restriction. Many Customs Officers seem reluctant to issue a UTL, but your friend should have no difficulty getting a TL.