VAT on equipment for foreign registered yachts

[CAVOK]

I’ve purchased a yacht in Europe and will be fitting it out with a variety of equipment after taking possession of it in France. It will registered outside of the EU, but I’ll be doing most of the initial fitout inside the EU, as well as sailing for periods of time in the Med. As a foreign registered boat and non EU citizen am I able to claim any VAT exemption for the equipment, purchased either within the EU or imported from elsewhere. If not, are there countries inside the EU where VAT is lower. Equipment will include watermakers, life rafts etc.

[Yellow bird]

You can't have an exemption, but you are eligible for a tax refund.
Take a look here
https://www.google.com/search?ei=aQi...71.41foevtypDk

[CAVOK]

Thanks for the reply. I guess I’m more thinking of importing gear from the US or the UK if Brexit happens. I’ll be a foreign registered yacht so I’m trying to avoid paying Euro VAT in wherever I might be at the time. I’d imagine a few people have gone through a similar process. I’m still trying to get my head around the Schengen wormhole for people and boats so I’d appreciate anyone’s experiences