Martinique Purchase - Documentation & Voltage Issues

[ejlindahl]

A boat for sale by a Martinique charter co has caught my eye. Its on Yachtworld so it must be listed with a broker. I haven't made the leap with that or any broker yet as I would like to know a little about the title & documentation issues involved.

I intend to bring it back to Puget Sound and put it in Charter using it for a couple weeks a year but eventually blocking out more and more time, (up to a couple months) for my own use. Also I may convert to full time personal use down the road. I've read a few threads on US Coast Guard Documentation and setting up an LLC in Delaware. I'll follow those for that question. Are there any unique issues with Martinique? I assume the owner is French or the Martinique charter company itself. Here are my queries for you.

1. Are there unique issues with purchasing in Martinique? VAT? Speaking French? title transfer? Can you recommend an english speaking surveyor there? Another thread recommended ASAP Company in Florida for those purchasing in BVI.

2. What is involved in putting in 110V USA shore power aboard, can I just throw in some sort of transformer to step 220V down to 110V? What is a ball park cost? I wouldn't mind having both voltages aboard.

3. Looks like USCG documentation is the way to go as I will be cruising in Canada and maybe Mexico and beyond. Is this the best and cheapest way to go? My intent is to deliver it directly back to Seattle on its own bottom.

4. If I set up an LLC in Delaware will I be able to avoid Washington State taxes?

Extra credit: Should I get a buyers broker or just approach the listing broker?

All my previous boat purchases have been local, handshake private party deals so I thank you for your help.

Eric