VAT - Shipping to Greece

[GrowingLad]

I wonder if some fellow forumites have faced the same situation.

I'm going to transport my Dad's old motor boat out to Greece where I intend to keep her.

Now she dates from approx 1974, don't have an idea of origin so far, trying to find that out. My Dad bought her in 1989. I've got her registered on SSR but something that I've just thought about.

What about VAT, I've got no idea on the ins and outs of this bit.

Any advice, experience?

Thanks,
Simon

 

[Nautorius]

Jezbanks shipped a boat back from greece lately so may be able to offer some advice. He is often on MOBO chat.

Cheers

Paul /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[GrowingLad]

Hi Paul,

I'm actually shipping there. My main concern is apart from original maunals, letters concerning moorings and insurance plus a hand written receipt (stating my Dad paid approx 5000 pounds in 1989) I don't have any official paper work concerning the first purchase.

Don't have a clue whether I need to worry about VAT or not.

Thanks,

Simon

 

[vyv_cox]

Suggest you search the RYA website. There always was a good deal of information on this subject. However, my understanding is that if the boat is older than 1984 and you have proof of that, the vessel is exempt from VAT. There are bound to be additional requirements, so suggest you check before accepting my info.

On a more pragmatic note, I have sailed my boat to Greece over the past four years and nobody along the way could care less about VAT. Once in Greece I doubt whether anybody is bothered, so long as you have your SSR, crew list and insurance.

 

[GrowingLad]

Sounds like a bit of good news, I'll have a read up on the RYA site.

My main concern is the transport guy arriving at Patra via ferry and having grief with the customs. He's done quite a few of these trips and says things are quite smooth I just want to double check I've crossed the t's and dotted the i's.

Thanks.

 

[steve_cronin]

What you say is exactly correct vyv. If it was built prior to '84 it does not attract VAT.

I have never been asked for a VAT receipt in Greece and I don't know anyone who has.

Steve Cronin

 

[GrowingLad]

Thanks for all the input chaps.
One less thing to worry about.

 

[Davy_S]

Tell your transport guy NOT to tow through Switzerland! you will have no problems.
I have never seen customs at Patras check any trailered boat. The Italians bring them in droves in the summer.