When purchasing a yacht, one of the key decisions is whether to register it for private or commercial use. This choice impacts everything from operational costs to regulations and tax considerations.
A private yacht is used solely for the owner's leisure and enjoyment, without being chartered for financial gain. While this option typically involves fewer regulatory requirements, private yachts cannot generate income and must comply with specific usage restrictions in certain jurisdictions.
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Buying Guide
Buying Guide by Passionate Experts Honest advice & support at every stage!
At UNICO Yachting, we work closely with our clients, providing expert guidance and advice on every aspect of the yacht purchase. Our ultimate goal is to make the buying process seamless and stress-free.
At UNICO Yachting, we don’t just sell yachts—we guide, advise, and empower our clients to make informed decisions.
Identifying a Yacht that suits your lifestyle
Choosing the right yacht is about more than just size and style—it’s about finding the perfect match for your lifestyle, needs, and aspirations on the water. Whether you seek a sleek motor yacht for high-speed cruising, a spacious vessel for family adventures, or a luxurious retreat for entertaining guests, the right choice comes down to how you envision your time at sea. At UNICO Yachting, we take the time to understand your preferences, guiding you through key considerations such as yacht type, size, performance, and onboard amenities. With our expertise, we help you navigate the options to ensure your yacht complements your lifestyle, delivering both comfort and unforgettable experiences.
Sea Trials & Survey
A thorough survey and sea trial are essential steps in the yacht buying process, ensuring that your chosen vessel meets both your expectations and industry standards. At UNICO Yachting, we coordinate comprehensive inspections conducted by qualified marine surveyors who assess the yacht’s structural integrity, mechanical systems, its engines and overall condition. The sea trial allows you to experience the yacht’s performance firsthand, testing its handling, engine efficiency, and onboard systems under real conditions. These steps provide critical insights into the yacht’s value and any necessary maintenance, giving you the confidence to proceed with your purchase fully informed.
Securing a Deal
Finalising a yacht purchase involves careful coordination to ensure a smooth and secure transaction. At UNICO Yachting, we oversee every detail of the closing process, from reviewing contractual agreements and managing payments to arranging surveys, sea trials, and legal documentation. Our team works closely with all parties involved to safeguard your interests, ensuring that ownership transfer, registration, and any necessary formalities are completed efficiently. With our expertise, you can proceed with confidence, knowing that every aspect of the deal is handled professionally and transparently.
Private or Commercial Use
A commercial yacht, on the other hand, is registered for charter operations, allowing the owner to offset costs by renting it out to clients. Commercial yachts must meet stricter safety, crewing, and operational regulations, including compliance with international maritime laws and commercial yacht codes. However, they may also benefit from VAT exemptions and other tax advantages in some regions.
Choosing between private and commercial registration depends on your intended use, financial goals, and regulatory preferences. At UNICO Yachting, we guide clients through the pros and cons of each option to ensure they make the best decision for their needs.
Contract Signing & Flag Registration
Once all due diligence has been completed and both parties are satisfied with the terms, the yacht purchase moves to the contract signing stage. At UNICO Yachting, we ensure that all agreements are meticulously reviewed, protecting your interests and outlining key terms such as payment schedules, delivery conditions, and any post-sale obligations.
Following contract execution, selecting the right flag state for registration is a crucial step. The flag under which a yacht is registered determines the legal framework it must adhere to, impacting taxation, crewing requirements, and operational regulations. Whether opting for a private or commercial registration, we guide our clients in choosing the most suitable jurisdiction, considering factors like VAT efficiency, regulatory compliance, and cruising preferences.
With our expertise, we streamline the entire process, ensuring a seamless transition of ownership and proper flag registration tailored to your needs.
Enjoy the Journey let the fun & adventure begin!
Owning a yacht is more than just a purchase—it’s the beginning of a new adventure. Whether you’re setting sail for serene coastal escapes or embarking on exhilarating voyages across the open seas, your yacht represents freedom, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. At UNICO Yachting, we take pride in guiding you through every step of the buying process, ensuring a seamless and rewarding journey. Now, with the keys to your dream yacht in hand, it’s time to explore, relax, and create lasting memories on the water.
Your journey starts here—enjoy every moment!
Your Next Steps
Reach out to one of our Experienced advisors
We’re not salespeople—we’re trusted advisors. Experts with deep industry knowledge. Passionate professionals who understand the intricacies of yacht brokerage like no other.
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