Storing a Boat in Asia

[Charlie]

I was wondering if anyone knew of somewhere safe to store a boat for 9 months in Asia. Australia, Thailand, and Singapore seem to only allow a boat to stay for 6 months. Does anyone have any ideas?

[MarkJ]

Originally Posted by Charlie

I was wondering if anyone knew of somewhere safe to store a boat for 9 months in Asia. Australia, Thailand, and Singapore seem to only allow a boat to stay for 6 months. Does anyone have any ideas?

Danga Bay Marina, Johore Baru, Malaysia. Short bus trip to Singapore, marina to downtown Singapore incl customs etc 1.5 hours.

It was free when we were there late last year,. but now I would be expecting a fee.

Goood area, no security problems.

[Charlie]

Thanks Mark. The officials do not mind people keeping a boat there for nine months without paying import fees?

[Meridian]

Hi, Charlie...
You may want to look in to the Australian rules again. We were just there, and upon checking in, they stated on the documents that our boat could remain in-country, duty-free, for up to 3 years. Approvals were needed every year, but could be re-newed twice (for a total of said 3 years). Renewing could be done via internet.
Our personal visas were only granted for 3 months, but the boat was good for much longer.
HIH,
John

[Charlie]

Thanks John:
I just looked at one source and that was Noonsite and they had listed the rules as 6 month max. Thanks for the up to date info. Did you have any of the problems that people have described such as the call before you arrive or the bottom paint problems?

[MarkJ]

Originally Posted by Charlie

Thanks Mark. The officials do not mind people keeping a boat there for nine months without paying import fees?

No fees.

[Charlie]

Originally Posted by MarkJ

No fees.

I like that!!

[dingoman]

This post got me thinking. Can you just bring your boat across into another country for a day or so and return?? Kind of like a visa run thing? I'm planning on buying a boat in Thailand (USA Flagged) and would be hopefully keeping her there almost full time..

[Meridian]

Originally Posted by Charlie

Did you have any of the problems that people have described such as the call before you arrive or the bottom paint problems?

No issues with bottom paint. We know of several other cruisers who also checked-in to Australia last year, nobody had issues with quarantine, though they do a fairly thorough inspection (sea-strainer, etc). I'd make sure you scrub the bottom before beginning your passage to Oz (or to anywhere, for that matter...the reduced drag/ increased speed is well worth it).
As for customs/ immigration, again no issues, and indeed very courteous and professional, but MAKE SURE you abide by their rule that you notify them several days prior to arrival. This can be done electronically, by fax, etc, but do get them the required form. Then, 48 hours before actually entering their waters, communicate via radio with them. This *should* keep them happy. And believe me, you want them to be happy!
Caveat...Things are pretty pricey there...you may want to do some research before tying up for the season.
John

Edit...There is a mandated charge of $330 australian dollars for the quarantine "service"

[mikereed100]

+1 on Malaysia. In Thailand you will be able to extend the visa up to 2 years if work is being done on it. It is not unknown for boats to take a "virtual trip" to Langkawi to extend the visa even further. Malaysia is cheaper and easier though.

Mike

[Fast Forward]

The hardstand at Rebak Marina is also an option - they have a travel lift, it's safe and very reasonable, particularly if you're paying in advance. It's also very easy to get to the airport and I stand to be corrected, but the boat can stay for 1 year.... Danga Bay may very well be free, but personally we would not leave our boat in the water for 9 months!

[mikereed100]

Originally Posted by Fast Forward

The hardstand at Rebak Marina is also an option

That's where we are now and I agree with FF that it is a good place to store a boat. In addition Noel, who runs the chandlery there, will keep an eye on the boat for a reasonable fee.

Mike

[Hyde Far East]

Port Bonbonon in sth negros philippines is a natural harbour and below the typhoon belt where many cruisng sailors leave their boats at anchor for extended periods ... subic bay has a hard standing at watercraft ventures which also has good rates ... philippines does not care how long you keep your boat there ...