Recreational Craft Directive

[Blue Moon]

Hello all,

I own an American registered boat I want to import into the EU. She was build by American Marine, now Grand Banks, in the original shipyard in Kowloon, Hong Kong in 1967. I understand any boat that had been in the European Economic Area before the implementation of the RCD in 1994, it's exempt of the CE marking. Hong Kong was a British Colony until 1997 and so I also understand that my boat, being built in a British territory, doesn't need to be CE marked.

Can any kind and knowledgable reader confirm this?

Thanks a lot!

 

[KellysEye]

My understanding is that only new boats require an RCD. The important thing though is has VAT been paid on it? If not you will be liable on importation.

 

[Ceejay]

Is it not too old to have to pay VAT? VAT was introduced in the UK in 1973. If proof of age is available, the question of VAT shouldn't arise.
CJ

 

[AntarcticPilot]

I don't know how this applies to boat sales, but British Colonies AREN'T in the EU. They are self-governing nations that are NOT part of the UK. Hong Kong certainly wasn't part of the UK; I am married to a Hong Kong citizen and can assure you this is the case. British policy in this regard is very different from other nations such as France. Today, I know from my own experience and knowledge that the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and British Antarctic Territory (all UK Overseas Territories) are explicitly NOT in the EU, and as far as I know, this is true for all British Overseas Territories.

Incidentally, even places a lot closer to home are not in the EU; the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are NOT in the EU (nor are they part of the UK - they are independent territories that just happen to have the Queen as Head of State)

 

[Tranona]

Pretty sure it will require to comply with the RCD. Hong Kong was never part of the EEA. All boats imported after 1998 need to comply with the RCD.

Highly unlikely you will be able to get your boat through - even if you could afford it, simply because the engines will not meet the latest requirements. To add to the financial misery you will also have to pay VAT. not surprising very few older non EU/EEA boats are imported.

If you are a non EU resident you can apply for temporary importation without paying VAT and complying with the RCD, but there are restrictions on use and the boat cannot be sold in the EU without complying.

If you want to be sure about the situation suggest you contact the RYA or a specialist in RCD matters such as CE Proof with all the information on your boat.

 

[SHUG]

As the wise one Tranona says "...contact a specialist". You will get a wonderful range of opinions here but..........

 

[Blue Moon]

Thanks to all of you!
I get the point now. I know french overseas territories are considered EU/EEA. From this my reasoning.
I'll follow your advice and check with the specialists.