Cruising a boat internationally under an LLC

[Smokeys Kitchen]

For those that are cruising internationally and their boat is registered under an LLC; have you encountered any issues due to the vessel documentation and/or insurance not matching things like passport names? Has anyone gone from an LLC to personal ownership due to issues while in a foreign country or while clearing in?

Any and all experiences or thoughts appreciated.

Thanks, Ron

[belizesailor]

No, Ive run my boat, and a number of others held by LLCs, or other forms of corp entities, across international borders many times with zero issues. The most Ive ever been asked for is a letter of authorization from the corp entity...and not often for that. I keep copies of the authorization letter, signed by me, authorizing me to operate the vessel in the ships papers.

Re insurance, the owner (the LLC etc) is normally the named insured and additional insured parties may be added (such as the individual/captain who actually operates the boat).

[boom23]

No problems either. Same as belizesailor.

FWIW, Colorado is the new cheapest LLC state.

[Smokeys Kitchen]

OK - thanks to both of you for chiming in. Believe we'll leave it in the LLC for the foreseeable future unless we need to change it

[boatman61]

I have delivered two LLC boats, one Cat and one Mono.. no problems whatever.. as long as you have the documents they want all is good.

[Smokeys Kitchen]

Thanks also Boatie

[ka4wja]

Ron,
My current boat is owned by my LLC...I formed the LLC when I was boat shopping about 16 years ago...
Boat is documented in LLC name, with me as managing partner....insured as LLC and myself...never an issue...
In the past 15 years, with this boat, I've sailed the Atlantic, EU, Caribbean, Bahamas, US...never an issue...

Fair winds..

John

[Smokeys Kitchen]

Thanks for your input John