Registering a boat bought in France in the U.S.

[florenced]

My family is buying a catamaran in France, currently registered in France. We would like to transfer its registration to the U.S. even if the boat will most likely stay in Europ or Caraibes. Does anyone know what the formalities are?? thank you

[goboatingnow]

request a deflagging certificate from the French registry ( Toulon If I remember correctly ) . This is usually done on presentation of the bill of sale. reregister with the USCG.( Thats assumes you are an american citizen)

dave

[SVNeko]

I did this with a French catamaran about 4 years ago. You will also need the original builder's certificate. Contact the USCG Vessel Documentation Center - they will walk you through it. You will need to deal with state registration issues wherever you are required to register. You will also have to deal with customs if you ever want to bring it to the US.

[dlymn]

I reckon that you have to deregister and then register in the country of your nationality. The French won't look after etrangers.
If VAT has been paid, keep documentation. I have been asked many times to provide it even though the boat is now not EU registered. Ah, bureaucracy.