Boat Import
Just like acquiring a highly sought-after vehicle, the process of importing a specialized marine asset such as a motor yacht, sailboat, or personal watercraft from an international market involves complex logistics, intricate customs procedures, and demanding technical compliance requirements. Successfully completing an importing a boat transaction into the European Union (EU) requires meticulous management of these moving parts to ensure legality and financial predictability. CYP Automotive (CYP) extends its proven expertise in navigating global regulatory frameworks to the marine sector, managing all stages of the acquisition and importation journey. This comprehensive, full-service approach handles the entire process, from securing the vessel at its origin.
Benefits of importing a boat with us
Professional customs handling and documentation
CYP Automotive prepares and submits all required customs declarations and certificates, reducing the risk of delays or fines and ensuring a smooth boat import process.
Single point of contact and full-service logistics
You receive one dedicated project coordinator who organises transport, port handling, storage, and communication with authorities, saving you time and preventing miscommunication.
Expertise across markets and regulations
Our experience with multiple source countries means we know differing export rules, VAT treatments, and technical inspections that affect importing a boat into the EU.
Cost transparency and tailored solutions
We present clear cost breakdowns and recommend the most efficient transport and customs solutions for your vessel, optimising cost without compromising safety.
Damage mitigation and secure handling
We arrange secure stowage, suitable lifting and berthing, and offer guidance on insurance to protect your investment during every stage of the boat import.
Costs of importing a boat
Costs for a boat import vary depending on origin country, vessel size, shipping method, customs duties, VAT, inspection fees, and required certificates. Typical cost components include export handling at origin, sea freight or Ro-Ro fees, inland transport to and from ports, customs clearance charges, storage and port handling, and any technical inspections or modifications needed to meet EU standards. CYP Automotive provides a detailed quotation after a brief intake where we evaluate vessel dimensions, origin port, condition, and desired delivery location so you know exactly what to expect.
Boat transport options
International boat import requires specialized logistics planning tailored to the unique dimensions and construction of marine vessels. Unlike standard vehicle transport, boats often require customized securing and handling. CYP provides access to a complete portfolio of transport methods, each selected based on the vessel’s size, financial value, and structural needs. Transport insurance arrangements can also be handled by CYP, protecting the client’s investment against unforeseen events during transit.
Container Transport: This option involves placing the vessel inside a standard 20-foot or 40-foot container. It is the preferred method for smaller vessels, especially those that can be trailered and whose width, after minor dismantling (such as removing masts or rails), remains below the maximum internal container width (around 2.3 meters).
Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) Transport: Considered the most common method for transporting recreational boats. The vessel, secured either on its own trailer or placed in a custom cradle affixed to a rolling platform (flat rack), is towed directly onto the ship’s dedicated deck. This method minimizes handling, reducing the risk of damage, and the cargo is stored securely in a weatherproof hold throughout the journey.
Specialized Handling (Lo-Lo / Flat Rack): For large yachts or vessels classified as Out of Gauge (OOG) — meaning they exceed the dimensional limits of containers or Ro-Ro decks, specialized handling is mandatory. The Lift-on/Lift-off (Lo-Lo) method uses heavy-duty cranes at the port to carefully lift the vessel onto the main deck of a cargo carrier. Alternatively, the vessel is secured onto a specialized flat rack (an open platform container), which eliminates typical size constraints while allowing the unit to be secured to the ship like a standard container.
What to consider when importing a boat
Beyond shipping and customs, two add-ons can save you time and risk:
Pre-shipment inspection (PSI). We can coordinate an inspection before loading to verify condition, inventory accessories, and photograph the hull/engine for your records—useful for insurance and for peace of mind.
Secure payment workflow. We support safe documentation and payment flows (invoicing, proof-of-ownership checks) and can recommend reputable escrow options; we keep document transfer coordinated between you and the seller.
Additional services you may need
Customs & Documentation – We gather all required papers, prepare declarations, calculate/import taxes and duties, and stay in touch with customs to resolve any extra checks quickly. This is the single best way to avoid costly delays.
Vehicle/Trailer Registration Assistance – If your boat arrives on a road trailer, or you need local registration formalities, we coordinate inspections and filings so you can get legal on EU roads and waterways faster.
Cyp Automotive – Your Partner for International Boat Import
The decision to acquire and import a vessel from outside the European Union is a major investment fraught with regulatory, logistical, and financial complexities. Choosing CYP Automotive means selecting a partner that specializes not just in shipping, but in guaranteeing full EU compliance and minimizing financial exposure. We provide compliance certainty, expertly managing the intricate dance between customs valuation (UCC), technical conformity (RCD/CE marking), and complex global logistics (Ro-Ro, Lo-Lo, Flat Rack). Leverage our proven expertise to transform a potentially daunting international acquisition into a streamlined, secure, and fully legalized experience. Ensure your investment sails smoothly into EU waters. Contact us today via the contact form to discuss your specific importing a boat project and secure your peace of mind.