Delivery Spain to Caribbean

[Gone Gypsy]

We have been used boat shopping and suddenly the Dollar is strong and European boats have dropped 20% in dollar price. Just as quick, we are interested in a new topic - what are the costs and considerations for buying in Europe (Spain, previous charter boat?) intending to crew the delivery to Virgin Islands for personal use there? We are looking at boats big enough for the transit.

We understand long distance selection, high engine hours and 220V shore power but we're wondering about: Typical delivery captain costs? Is crewing your own delivery a good idea? What are the taxes involved? In Spain? In US Virgin? ...and perhaps a thousand other questions, but this should get us started!

Thanks for your all your help.

[Eleuthera 2014]

The 220V should not be a problem. The entire world outside US/Canada/Mex is on 220V.

I live in Spain... Majorca. If it was me.... I would not consider a Spanish flagged boat as the seller is subject to a 20% tax following the sale... hence the asking price is high. Just browse around "yacht world" to get a feel. However, most other Euro nations do not have such a tax.

What is your size/budget requirement? I've trolled boats for 4 years and could perhaps point you to a long time listing which could become a bargain. Nothing in it for me... just aware of the Euro market.

Delivery should be simple; the trade winds are well in place. With a decent boat, you'll be in Caribbean under 20 days. Bring your iPhone as a secondary GPS and you can do it.

[boatman61]

The simplest is to buy direct from the charter fleet companies.. Moorings etc.. they are well versed in the legalities locally and across the pond.
They will be cheaper.. no VAT pegged into the clawback.. and they can also help with outfitting arranging new sails at wholesale prices, dinghies etc.. a good Moorings broker can be a money saver.
Getting across the Med from say Greece is no hardship if you don't mind motoring.. I'd recommend island hopping through during summer to time arrival in Gib for Sept.. Canaries for Oct.. Cap Verde Nov.. Caribe for Christmas.
If you've a schedule get a skipper who knows the 1st 2500 miles well... the Atlantic crossing itself you'll be capable of yourselves by the time you hit the Canaries..

[Gone Gypsy]

Eleuthera, We are looking for an interim monohull - something to keep in the Carib, sail for 6-8 weeks a year and perhaps put into 2nd tier charter to offset costs. If all goes according to plan we retire in 5 years and trade up to a boat just for us. The idea is don't wait and this first boat doesn't need to be the ultimate. Bigger monohulls compete with Cats and have better occupancy. We are looking mid-40', 4 cabin preferred, 2006 or newer at $100k. Bavaria 46 hit the mark.


Thanks for any ideas!

[Eleuthera 2014]

See PM.