CE, Boat/Yacht Delivery, Transport & Shipping Services

Generally speaking, imported US boats are the same as those sold by European dealers (where such exist).  Build and safety standards outside the EU/EEA are very similar and most manufacturers target a Global rather than Local market.  However,  Europe as a whole wants to protect its builders and so requires all imported boats to comply with legislation known as the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD, 94/25/EC as amended by 2003/44/EC). This legislation also applies to recreational craft built in the EU/EEA after 16/6/98.

These comments thus apply as much to craft already in the EU/EEA as those subject to boat import or boat shipping.

For those dealing in imported boats (buying and selling), proving RCD compliance, clear title and payment of taxes is becoming increasingly important to achieve a successful sale, a situation which is only going to get worse over time. 

Our services cover all recreational craft, powered and sail and are grouped as follows.

• CE Marking Service:  Our core business remains the CE Marking projects we undertake to demonstrate compliance with the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD).  This applies to all recreational craft powered or sail, whether built in the EU/EEA or not.   We offer a full range of CE services dealing with all craft types.  We are also equipped to undertake noise testing as required and to generate stabilty data from lines plans or hull measurement as required (for Category A / B craft).   We can also undertake compliance modifications both in Europe and the US.
• RCD Exemption:  Almost a 'get out of jail free' card for CE Marking on imported boats, backed by suitable evidence, we can issue RCD Exemption certificates for qualifying craft which not only remove most of the cost of the CE marking service but also remove the need to replace key components (e.g. engines).
• Export Sales Support:  Aimed at US sellers both private and trade.  We help provide guidance on how to target European buyers to extend your market outside the US and make a US purchase as easy for the buyer as with boats already based in Europe.
• Boat Finder:  You want us to help you find a craft to import to the EU/EEA from the US or EU (eg UK).  You want help with the whole process, leveraging our expertise and local presence to reduce your risk and find the best deal.  You may use our boat delivery services in addition to modifications for CE compliance and AC electrics.  Though we can't be directly involved in the purchase transaction we can recommend partners who can represent you in the US.
• Boat Import & Taxes:  You own or have identified a craft to buy.  You want to import the craft from the US or export from one EU state (eg UK) to another.  You may want our boat delivery services or just to use us as a boat or yacht transporter.  You want us to provide guidance on taxes and opportunities for temporary import.
  • US Boat Imports: You own or have purchased a US import. It may be in the EU or still in the US. You want help making sure the compliance and tax issues are dealt with so that you can be confident to legally use or resell the craft within the EU/EEA. 
  • UK Exports: You own or wish to purchase a US import (or indeed any craft) already in the UK. You, or your buyer, wishes to export the craft to another EU/EEA country where perhaps the enforcement of the RCD is more strict. You want help checking the craft is as stated and that the paperwork (including Title and VAT) will stand up to inspection once delivered.

For further information please use the menu to the right to access more information or contact us directly for an informal chat.  Pleasenote that yacht transport and boat delivery services are priced on a bespoke basis but require you to provide shipping dimensions, so please include these in any enquiry.

We're happy to discuss these services by phone or email so don't delay and call us now  on the numbers above.