Exporting a boat

[redfred50]

Hi folks,
I would like any advise on the rules and regs required for a non US citizen to buy a used boat in the US and sail the gulf for 6 months .What paperwork and how long it would take to obtain it
Cheers Fred

[Zanshin]

This subject has been discussed several times in recent weeks. It boils down to not being able to register a boat with the CG if you are not a citizen. How you proceed depends upon what you ultimately wish to do with the boat. What flag do you wish to register the boat with? You can purchase a boat, re-register it and then apply for the necessary cruising paperwork. Remember too, that you will need a tourist visa in order to sail into and out of the USA on a private vessel (the normal visa waivers do not apply!).

[redfred50]

Hi Zanshin ,
thanks for the info, I intend to leave the boat in the Dominican Republic and fly back to Europe Regarding the country of registration I would be glad of any suggestions , I am English , but now reside in Spain ,and would be using the boat as a holiday home .Whatever reg would be the least complicated will do for me
Cheers redfred50

[Zanshin]

I think that Gibraltar, BVI and Malta are great flags of convenience. Although you don't need to go to the BVI to register there, it is just short hop (upwind, of course) to the wonderful cruising grounds there.
Good luck on the purchase!

[redfred50]

Thanks a lot for your help BVI sounds good to me
Cheers Fred