Boat Export

FAQ's

Do you suggest we shrink wrap vessels prior to shipment?

Clients have the option to shrink wrap their vessels if preferred. Although we recommend leaving the shrink wrap off. The condition of yachts upon arrival has nothing a simple wash down cannot cure.  

How do I accurately measure / weigh my boat?

Overall length include bow pulpits, swim platforms, motor brackets and the length of the motors or outdrives in the raised position.
Width is measured as the widest point of the boat including anything attached to the sides of the vessel.You may have to mark the wide points on the ground by a drop line and then measure those points.
Overall height is measured from the bottom of the keel to the highest non-removable part of the vessel.Should the boat be shipped on a cradle the height is from the bottom of the cradle to the highest point on the boat.
Should the boat be shipped on a trailer the dimensions must include those of the trailer.
Weight is the fully loaded weight with all equipment, trailer/cradle and water/fuel if applicable.
For a sailing yacht you will also need to provide the dimensions of the mast or masts.

If using a container service, who will arrange for the loading and securing of the boat?
We can deliver the container or flatrack to you and you can do it yourself or the boat can be delivered to a packing depot, wharf or marina where we will arrange the loading/securing and delivery to wharf.

What documents are required to arrange the Customs formalities?

To make sure there are no delays, it is important that we have all necessary documentation. Below are the minimum requirements to Customs clear in most countries.
Bill of sale, or proof of value when importer already owns the boat.
Photo identification. Passport or photo drivers licence
Bill of lading. If shipping through us we will provide this.
Fumigation certificate(if applicable)
Providing we have all documentation in advance, will allow us to liaise with all authorities to ensure you're yacht can be made available as soon as possible. For more information on what type of clearance best suits your situation please feel free to contact us. This is best discussed prior to the vessel sailing, to ensure the correct documents are complete at origin.

What method of shipping should I use?

This will depend on the size of your yacht, whether it is shipped on a cradle or a trailer. We will advise you based on the type of vessel best suited to your needs, and more importantly the type of vessels available on any particular trade route. eg may only be a container line.

How can I prepare and protect my boat?

Disconnecting the batteries, stowing all lose objects below decks, unstepping mast/rigging if shipping on a container, RO/RO or conventional vessels. In these cases the mast will normally need to be lashed to the deck.
For new boats you may consider shrink wrapping for protection from the elements.

Should I insure my boat?

Marine insurance is optional but you should have during the actual ocean transit time.  An ocean carrier's liability is minimal and per the COGSA, the carrier’s maximum liability is $500.  All container and conventional vessels clause their bills of lading "shipped on deck at shippers risk."  All used boats will need a Condition Survey Report recently performed in order to take out Marine Insurance.  Insurance is calculated on a percentage of the declared value. A minimum premium may apply.

With a sailing yacht do I have to unstep the mast?

Only when shipping on a container vessel, RO/RO or conventional vessel.

What happens when my boat arrives at its destination?

You will need to arrange Customs clearance prior to the arrival of the vessel.
In most cases we can do this for you, or recommend that you engage a Customs broker. For more details please contact us.