Registering a boat in Delaware, a bad idea in disguise

At first glance, registering your boat under the Delaware flag might seem like an attractive solution for registering your vessel.

On paper, and listening to the sales pitch of those who promote it, for the pleasure boater looking to obtain a sailing flag easily and quickly, without spending too much, it is the ideal solution!

However, there are real constraints that lead us, as boat registration experts at Bateau-immatriculation.com, to advise against this choice. We will explain the reality of the situation.

The Delaware flag, or the promise of benefits for the boater

While searching the web, you will likely come across sites offering to obtain the Delaware flag in just a few days, for a handful of dollars, and with no requirement for residency in the territory.

It is true that the procedure is not very expensive if one does not take into account the annual representation fees. It can be done quickly and is possible for boaters of all nationalities. The owner has the choice of registering their vessel for 1 or 3 calendar years, and the file to be compiled is simple: it does not require gathering many documents.

These are the main reasons why, in recent years, boat registration in Delaware has enjoyed a certain success!

Unfortunately, while the state of Delaware sailing flag offers several advantages, there are also very restrictive conditions that are obviously not mentioned, even in the fine print.

Registration in Delaware, valid only for boats navigating in the territory

The legislation of some countries does not require boat owners to register them. Some Scandinavian countries or Italy, among others, may offer boats for sale that do not have national registration. We are experts in boat registration, both under French and European flags.

Is the boat of your dreams located outside the European Union? We are also by your side for the import of your vessel.

Delaware flag and customs

What about inspections for ships registered in Delaware?

All non-EU flags are more subject to inspections and checks, particularly regarding VAT. From temporary admission checks to the customs status of the vessel, you are in for some surprises if you choose the wrong flag! In our opinion, the worst configuration is when you choose to set up a foreign company, perhaps in Delaware, to hold your boat: this risks leading to the loss of "VAT paid" status—in other words, the loss of the holy grail for remaining in Community waters without a maximum time limit and for facilitating the future resale of your vessel.

Which sailing flag should you choose in your case?

As a boater, it is necessary to be well-informed about the various sailing flags so as not to make a mistake, to find the ideal solution for your boat, and to ensure you are in compliance.

This is exactly where the experts at Bateau-immatriculation.com come into play!

We study the solutions available to you on your behalf in order to propose a solution adapted to your needs. We handle your paperwork in the shortest possible time and take care of all your documentation, so you can quickly set sail.

Calculate the amount of your passport duty or DAFN (TAEMUP) here

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