Importing older yacht from the EU

[Cspirit]

A friend is considering buying a boat in the EU. It is likely to be an older, smaller value sailing yacht, probably around 1980 vintage and valued about 20k euros. I imagine that VAT or import duty will be payable. Any advice appreciated. Thanks, Bob

 

[st599]

VAT on the total cost will be payable (Boat + transport + fees etc.)

 

[Tranona]

It will also have to be certified up to latest standards as the pre 1998 exemption has been withdrawn. A boat of that age simply will not meet the requirements. These rules come in at the end of 2022 in the UK

In reality - forget it unless he can confirm in advance before he imports that it will be exempt this year!

 

[ashtead]

Can he not just leave in eu?Why bring a a small old boat home to Uk -berthing fees might be cheaper In France etc

 

[gordmac]

What is so rare about one in the EU that you can't get here?

 

[High'n'Dry]

VAT is a transaction tax, so the fact the boat exchanged ownership in the EU means it will incur VAT when you import it into the UK regardless of age. Don't ask me how I know....