german yacht registration

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Shipping registers of sea-going ships

List of shipping registers in germany.

• Registration in the shipping register of sea-going ships serves several purposes

Responsible register (district court of home port)

Prerequisites for registration, ships remain registered even when leaving the german flag, simplified registration at reflagging, fees calculator ship registration, certificate of registry is proof of registration in a shipping register, distinctive number or letters identify a ship, registration of recreational craft.

Location	Shipping register	Address	Phone
	Amtsgericht Brake, Seeschiffsregister	Bürgermeister-Müller-Straße 34, 26919 Brake	+49 44 01 109-0
	Amtsgericht Bremen, Seeschiffsregister	Ostertorstraße 25-31, 28195 Bremen	+49 421 361-0
	Amtsgericht Cuxhaven, Seeschiffsregister	Deichstraße 12a, 27472 Cuxhaven	+49 47 21 50 19-0
	Amtsgericht Duisburg-Ruhrort, Seeschiffsregister	Amtsgerichtsstraße 36, 47119 Duisburg	+49 20 38 00 59-0
	Amtsgericht Emden, Seeschiffsregister	Ringstraße 6, 26721 Emden	+49 49 21 951-0
	Amtsgericht Hamburg, Seeschiffsregister	Caffamacherreihe 20, 20355 Hamburg	+49 40 428 43-  32 48 or -28 35
	Amtsgericht Kiel, Seeschiffsregister	Preußerstraße 1-9, 24105 Kiel	+49 431 604-0
	Amtsgericht Rostock, Seeschiffsregister	Zochstraße 13, 18057 Rostock	+49 381 49 57-0
	Amtsgericht Saarbrücken, Seeschiffsregister	Mainzer Straße 178, 66121 Saarbrücken	+49 681 501-37 52
	Amtsgericht Stade, Seeschiffsregister	Wilhadikirchhof 1, 21682 Stade	+49 41 41 107-1
	Amtsgericht Wilhelmshaven, Seeschiffsregister	Marktstraße 15, 26382 Wilhelmshaven	+49 44 21 75 80-0

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Registration in the shipping register of sea-going ships serves several purposes

Mandatory registration of ships with a length of 15 m and above in the shipping register of sea-going ships serves several purposes:

• to disclose the nationality of the shipowner,
• to identify the ship,
• to register the ownership structure,
• to register a possible financial burden of ship mortgages.

The various shipping registers of ocean-going ships are maintained by district courts, located mainly near the German coastline. Which register (district court) is responsible depends on the home port of the ship. The home port is the place from where the ship’s operation is managed, regardless whether the ship calls there regularly or not.

Details of registration may differ from court to court. Generally the following documents have to be submitted with the application for registration:

• International tonnage certificate,
• Copy of the bill of sale (for a ship already in service) or shipyard construction certificate (for newbuildings),
• Copy of commercial register extract,
• Copy of the personal identification document of the managing director of the shipowning company,
• On the day of changing flag, deletion certificate from the previous flag registry (for ships already in service).

Some district courts provide specimen application forms for registration.

German owned sea-going ships remain registered in the German shipping register of sea-going ships when changing temporarily to a foreign flag. In such case the approval for the temporary flying of a foreign flag is recorded in the register. A German owner may operate his ship temporarily under a foreign flag, if he either provides training opportunities or pays a compensation. This is where you can find further information about compensation payment .

Frequently it is not necessary to submit all documents again when changing back to the German flag as most German owned ships are already registered in a German shipping register and are operated only temporarily under a foreign flag.

With our Fees Calculator Ship Registration, you can calculate the fees for your ship's initial registration into a German shipping register for sea-going ships yourself. Please enter the value of your ship (e.g. acc. to the sales contract of the ship) in Euros.

What is the value of the ship in Euros? (= business value acc. to GNotKG, sec. 36)

(please enter the amount without any spaces, dots or decimal places)

Usually there are no further fees for your initial registration when flagging-in, because most ships of German owners are already registered in a German shipping register for sea-going ships. More information on this topic can be found under Fees Calculator German Flag.

Proof of registration in a shipping register is the certificate of registry, in special cases also other flag documents. If a ship changes to the German flag when it is abroad, an interim certificate of registry may be issued with a period of validity of 6 months, based on § 5 of the "Flaggenrechtsgesetz" (Law of the Flag Act).

In addition to the certificate of registry, the distinctive number or letters are provided by the shipping register. The distinctive number or letters unambiguously identifies a ship and is at the same time the call sign for maritime radiocommunication. German distinctive number or letters are normally a combination of four letters, starting with „DA“ to „DR“ and possibly an additional number. Ships with less then 15m hull length which do not have to be listed in the shipping register of ocean-going ships, have a call sign of two letters and four cyphers.

Recreational craft (i.e. motor and sailing yachts) get either registered in an inland-shipping register or a shipping register of sea-going ships depending on size and trading area of the ship. From 15m hull length a registration in the shipping regiser for sea-going ships and from 10 tons water displacement in an inland-shipping register is mandatory.

Further information can be found on the BSH-website .

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Germany Yacht Registration Summary

Germany yacht registration summary is a free information resource designed to inform the boating public about vessel registry requirements, recording methods, and title search guidelines for the Federal Republic of Germany. The data is maintained as an open wiki forum where readers are encouraged to participate by sharing knowledge and experiences with this particular country. Simply click on the "Wiki-Share" link to contribute further details or suggest a revision.

This information is subject to change and should be confirmed with the respective agency.

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About the Flag

Located in central Europe, Germany borders the Baltic Sea and the North Sea between the Netherlands and Poland. A German-speaking federal republic, Germany has a civil law system with judicial review of legislative acts in the Federal Constitutional Court. The Head of State is the President, and the Head of Government is the Chancellor. The Capital City is Berlin.

Progress towards economic integration between Western and Eastern ­Germany (the previous German Democratic Republic) following reunification in October 1990 is clearly evident, but the Eastern Region will no doubt continue to depend on subsidies funded by the Western Region for many more years. Germany has a highly urbanized and skilled population and enjoys excellent living standards. It has an advanced market economy and is a world leader in exports, particularly machines and machine tools, motor vehicles, chemicals, and iron and steel products. Its major trading partners are the EC nations and the United States. The unit of currency is the EURO. Germany is a member of the EU, NATO, UN, and IMO.

The registration of seagoing ships is governed by the “Flaggenrechtsgesetz” and the “Schiffsregisterordnung.” In general, the law of registration applies to vessels with a hull of   over 15 meters in length   but shorter ships may also be registered. War ships and ships of public authorities are excluded. There are separate official registers for seagoing vessels (“Seeschiffsregister”), for inland waterway vessels (“Binnenschiffsregister”), and for ships under construction in German shipyards as well as for floating docks (“Schiffsbauregister”) governed by similar though not identical rules.

Germany also has a second, “International Register.” All vessels have to be registered in the Ordinary Ship Register, and vessels “internationally registered” are additionally entered in the German International Ship Register.

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Check our FAQ

With the most common questions, anything missing, just contact us by phone or email and we will explain in detail, faq for germany boat registrations, frequently asked questions.

See our most common questions related to the Germany boat registration.

German registration is open to EU corporations as well as German residents and individuals.

• Passport/ID copy
• Company formation documents (If applicable)
• Proof of ownership
• Builder’s Certificate
• Proof of insurance
• Proof of VAT payment
• Measurement certificate (To confirm the measurements of the boat)
• Proof of seaworthiness
• Proof of address
• Deletion document (If applicable)
• 2 colored pictures of the boat

Normally, it takes 3-5 weeks to complete the ship certificate application process.

The German boat registration certificate is issued in paper format. It is a legal document that confirms the boat's registration and contains information such as the boat's name, registration number, owner's name and address, and other details related to the boat's registration.

The German registration is good for five years.

The documents are accepted in English and German language. If the documents are in different language, we will take care of the sworn translations for you.

The German flag

Yes, we do.

For ships 24 metres in length or more, an accurate measurement is taken on board in accordance with the International Convention on Ship Measurement's standards. These ships are then granted an international tonnage certificate (ITC 69, International Tonnage Certificate 1969).

Commercial boats in Germany require inspection and certification by a competent authority to ensure that they comply with applicable safety and environmental standards.

Yes, it is possible to register a jet ski in Germany. The registration process and requirements for a jet ski are generally similar to those for other types of boats.

• Bill of sale or purchase agreement
• Boat registration certificate
• The original registration certificate
• A written statement confirming that the boat is no longer in use and will be taken out of service
• Copy of passport or ID card
• Bill of sale or transfer of ownership document (if applicable)
• The "Sportbootführerschein Binnen" (inland waters license) is required for boats with an engine power of more than 11.03 kW (15 PS) on inland waters, such as rivers, lakes, and canals.
• The "Sportbootführerschein See" (coastal waters license) is required for boats with an engine power of more than 11.03 kW (15 PS) on coastal waters, such as the North Sea, Baltic Sea, or German territorial waters.
• The "Sportküstenschifferschein" (coastal skipper's license) is required for boats over 12 meters in length, or boats with more than 15 PS on coastal waters.

Yes, it is possible to register a boat for commercial or bareboat use in Germany.

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Register your boat under the german flag.

Germany’s boat registry is at the highest level internationally and is in an important position under port state control in accordance with the Paris Agreement. The average age of commercial ships sailing under the German flag is among the lowest in the world. EU citizens or companies have a convenient option to register their ships or yachts under the German flag.

However, in order for a yacht to be registered in the German Maritime Register, a person or a company resident in one of the EU member states must apply to a designated regional flag agency in Germany. This flag agent must be a German citizen with a reputation for integrity and resident in a territory within the jurisdiction of the ship registry.

German Flag Registration: Assuring Quality and Safety

These procedures aim to maintain Germany’s reliability and quality in the maritime industry. It also provides an important control mechanism to ensure that ship owners fulfill their legal obligations. In this way, ships sailing under the German flag are operated in accordance with international standards and maritime safety and environmental protection measures are meticulously implemented.

The German Maritime Registry also offers a number of advantages to ship owners. These include the prestige and security provided by sailing under an internationally recognized flag, low tax rates, effective management services and ease of compliance with international maritime legislation. In addition, Germany’s expertise and experience in the maritime industry guarantees ship owners high quality services.

Why Germany Flag?

• Tax advantages
• Insurance discounts
• Security and compliance
• Access to European waterways
• Ease of compliance with international legislation
• Effective management services
• International prestige
• Germany's expertise in the maritime industry

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Germany Boat Registration - 749,00 €
• ✓ Available Worldwide
• ✓ Available to all nationalities
• ✓ No inspection required (Under 24 Meters)
• ✓ Expedited 3-5 weeks service
• ✓ Official Flag Registration
• ✓ Includes all translations
• ✓ No hidden fees - all-inclusive price
• ✓ Ranked 11th in the MOU list
• ✓ Registration Valid for Life!
• ✓ For private, bareboat and commercial

Optional Services We Offer

• Germany Flag (65x40) - 25,00 €
• Coverage applies to European land and all inland waters, the North and Baltic Seas (north sea: north to the line formed by Bergen/Wick, south: up to Ushant/Landsend), the entire Mediterranean (limited by the Bosphorus). , 12 sm from the African coast, Jordan, Israel and Syria) and up to 200 nautical miles from the Atlantic coast (excluding the north and west of Ireland) to the northern limit of the Western Sahara (12 sm from the African coast), including the Canary Islands within a radius of 200 nautical miles
• German internal waters without Rhine
• European inland waters
• European inland waters and the Baltic sea
• European internal waters and the North and Baltic seas (north sea: north to the line formed by Bergen/Wick, south: to Ushant/Landsend)
• Greek coastal waters (Ionian Sea and Aegean Sea)
• Turkey's coastal waters up to 200 nautical miles, bordered to the north by the Bosphorus
• Croatian coastal waters up to 200 nautical miles

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Where to Register Your Yacht Offshore: the Ultimate Guide

Dateline: Belgrade, Serbia

For the person who has successfully opened an offshore bank account , got a second passport and is living the lifestyle of their dreams traveling the world, the time has come to move on to the next level of flag theory.  This new level is one where the focus shifts from acquisitions that are largely for diversification purposes toward purchases meant purely to improve your lifestyle – like boating.

For many who reach this stage, the next step is to combine travel and leisure by investing in the purchase of a yacht.

Unlike buying a new car – or even a house – buying a yacht is an investment of an international nature, and deciding upon the best country for yacht registration is a decision for which you need professional advice so you do not expose your assets to unnecessary taxes and liabilities. If you go into the process uneducated, your exciting new purchase might just become nothing more than a hole in the water into which you pour unnecessary amounts of money.

As with other international strategies, the country in which you register your yacht can have an enormous effect on the amount of money you will be able to save, as well as your freedom of travel. Some countries keep you from freely traveling to other jurisdictions, others charge high tax percentages or registration fees, and others do none of those things.

Choose Your Flag Wisely

When buying a yacht,  the choice of yacht flags is one of the most important decisions you have to make because it can have a direct effect on your privacy, taxes, and your exposure to liability. Just as you would create a corporate structure to protect your other assets, you should do the same when it comes to yacht registration.

For this reason, many boat owners opt to register their yacht in places like the Cayman Islands to avoid the onerous taxes and regulations of the United States and other western governments. Panama , with its favorable registration policies, is the largest ship registry in the world  with over 9,000 ships flying its flag.

However, it’s also very important to do your due diligence in selecting a country for yacht registration by working with a professional. Once your vessel is registered in a country, all of the country’s laws will apply to your boat. Many countries that have attractive tax structures have other issues that you’ll want to avoid, such as laws that require you to hire a crew completely composed of nationals from that country.

You will also want to register your yacht in a country that is well respected by the US and the EU. If you choose a country with a bad reputation, it can limit where you are allowed to travel, or at the very least, make you subject to more detentions and inspections.

The flag state has the responsibility to enforce regulations over vessels registered under its flag, so yacht registration under countries on the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (Paris MoU) on Port State Control’s black or gray list will come under more scrutiny in inspections. Because of this, a large majority of yachts are flagged in British Overseas Territories, known as the ‘Red Ensign Group’ — including Bermuda, Gibraltar and the Isle of Man.

These countries have acceptable safety regulations for travel in EU countries, while also having more attractive tax structures than the UK. In fact, company tax is set at 0% in the Channel Islands , the Isle of Man, the Cayman Islands, and Bermuda .

This is particularly useful for those who wish to spend time in European Union waters, as vessels owned or used by EU residents are subject to the EU’s Value Added Tax (VAT). Private yacht registration with a non-EU flag allows an owner to operate under a “temporary importation structure” which allows for 18 months free of these taxes or customs duties. After the 18 months are over, the boat owner can re-apply for this status.

Bearing this in mind, let’s take a look at some of my favorite countries for yacht registration.

1.The Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands Shipping Registry is a favorite among people who own both pleasure and commercial yachts worldwide. This ship registry has been at the Port of George Town, Cayman Islands since 1903. There are two other ports in the Cayman Islands as well: The Creek in Canyon Brac and Bloody Bay in Little Cayman.

The Merchant Shipping Law, which was revised in 2016, is the governing legislation for all boats registered in the Cayman Islands. The law offers many different types of yacht registration, including full registration, interim registration, provisional registration, a ship under construction registration, and demise charter/bareboat registration. An owner who is having a vessel built might find this convenient so he or she can register it as a boat under construction and then change to full yacht registration later.

As I mentioned above, the Cayman Islands is a part of the Red Ensign Group. This means that getting your yacht registration in the Cayman Islands flags your vessels as a British Ship, granting it protection by the British Royal Navy.

Because time is crucial for so many people, the Cayman Islands Ship Registry (CISR) can also expedite the registration process for those who need to be registered immediately if they pay their expedition fee. In addition, the CISR has representative offices in Fort Lauderdale, London, Cannes, Athens, Tokyo, and Singapore where you can have ship registry certificates issued immediately if needed.

Yachts that are registered with the Cayman Islands as pleasure yachts and are not engaged in trade are granted a License to Cruise the water of the United States which will allow them to enter, depart, and cruise within U.S. waters. These vessels will only need to report to U.S. customs when entering the country or changing customs districts.

Assuming you meet all of the required qualifications, there are no restrictions or rules concerning the nationality of the master or the crew of your ship.   In addition to the Cayman Islands being a tax neutral environment, the jurisdiction provides vessel owners with banking facilities and directorship services.

Overall, vessels registered in the Cayman Islands benefit from all the privileges of the British flag, while simultaneously having the tax-free and confidentiality perks of the Cayman Islands.

2. The Netherlands

Many people consider Holland to be an ideal location for yacht registration because the country is flexible and straightforward, whereas most other European countries follow stricter rules and regulations. The registration process is fast compared to that of other countries and requirements are minimal.

To register under the Dutch flag, the process is easiest if you are either an EU citizen, Swiss, Norwegian, or own a company registered in the EU.

One of the main advantages of the Netherlands is that you can be registered under the Dutch flag in as little as three days. That is why Holland is typically preferred over countries like Italy, France, and Spain where there is a longboat registration process in addition to high registration fees. A lot of yacht owners solve this problem by registering under the Dutch flag. Taxes and registration requirements in the Netherlands are minimal, allowing the whole process to be completed in three days, assuming you meet the necessary criteria.

Boat owners do not have to be of Dutch nationality, nor do they have to have a residence in the country. The only documents you must have are an ID card or passport and you must provide proof of ownership of your boat. Because so little documentation is needed, renewing your yacht registration is also a fairly simple process.

The process is easiest, however, for people who are Dutch, Swiss, Norwegian or have a company based in the EU. If you are not Dutch, Swiss, or Norwegian, and if you do not have a company registered in the EU, you can still register by paying a fee to have a United Kingdom Ltd. set up in your name.

The Ltd. will cost you 349 EUR upfront and 249 EUR every year after that. Once the Ltd. is set up, you’ll receive your registration within three to five days. The documentation needed is still the same. It only costs about 299 EUR for yacht registration in Holland if you are an EU citizen. It costs 648 EUR for non-EU citizens and your registration license can be delivered overnight anywhere in the world. Those prices include everything from the taxes to the mandatory Dutch address and all the costs for shipping and consultation.

There is also no requirement to have your boat inspected, making the vessel documentation process even simpler.

 Types of yacht registration under the Dutch flag:

     1.  Light registration

Light yacht registration is for people who want fast and easy registration for navigating EU waters. With light registration, you can only sail European Union waters and the length of your yacht may not exceed 24m.

    2.  Global registration

Global yacht registration is for yachts that will navigate outside of European Union waters, sail worldwide, or be engaged in commercial chartering. People with Global registration can sail worldwide. Global registration is also available to Swiss or Norwegian persons regardless of whether or not they have a company in the EU.

 3. The Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands ship registry was formed in 1988. In 2001, it was expanded to allow those with commercial and private yachts to register as well, which has made the Marshall Islands a popular place to register over the last sixteen years.

The jurisdiction has also gained a lot of recognition over the years by having regional offices in major maritime cities around the world, allowing them to provide same day service to anyone, regardless of the location or time zone in which they reside.

The Marshall Islands Registry is the third-largest in the world and you can register under a one or three-year program.

You must be a Marshall Islands citizen, national, or qualified foreign maritime entity to register in the Marshall Islands. The terms “citizen” and “national” refer to Marshall Islands corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, and associations of individuals. (You can easily complete the process to have a Marshall Islands company registered in your name so you can register your ship there.)

Assuming you complete all the necessary documents and meet all requirements, you can have your ship registered within 24 hours; you can also register your yacht as a ‘ship under construction’ if needed. You can obtain a U.S. cruising permit as a boat registered in the Marshall Islands and commercially compliant yachts can charter in Europe. In other words, you are not confined to the waters of the Marshall Islands alone, which is convenient for those who want to see more of the world.

As long as you meet proper flag requirements, yachts measuring 18m or longer that weigh less than 500 gross tons can be chartered out for up to 84 days as a private yacht limited charter (PYLC).

In addition to being white-listed under Paris and Tokyo’s MoUs, the Marshall Islands also meets the flag criteria for a low-risk ship under the Paris New Inspection Regime. Additionally, the Marshall Islands has been a part of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Qualship 21 roster for 11 consecutive years.

The Marshall Islands Registry is low tax and respected worldwide; the country is a presidential republic in free association with the United States and enjoys similar benefits to its British Overseas Territory counterparts making it a great jurisdiction for yacht registration.

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. The country’s ship registry ranks 10th in the world with a gross tonnage of over 21 million pounds.

A ship can be registered in Cyprus if more than 50% of the shares of the registering company are owned by a Cypriot or if your company is registered in the Republic of Cyprus. An offshore company can also be registered in Cyprus if the company’s control is in the hands of Cypriots.

The Republic of Cyprus can easily register your company under their flag so you can register your yacht there. The costs of yacht registration and management are the lowest in Europe , making the jurisdiction an ideal, convenient place for many owners to register their ship.

There are many tax benefits that come with yacht registration under the Cyprus flag. An owner whose ship is registered in Cyprus is fully exempt from income taxes from operations in international waters. Additionally, no tax is payable for the wages of the crew that operates in international waters. No tax is payable on any dividend received from a shipping company in Cyprus.

Cyprus has maritime offices around the world, allowing them to work with anyone anywhere at any time. Some of their main offices are located in New York, London, Rotterdam, Piraeus, Brussels, and Hamburg. Upon registering in one of these offices, you will have the benefits of flying an EU flag, which is respected worldwide. According to the  EU registry, “Sailing under EU flags demonstrates strength and represents a strong reputation.”

Like some of the other countries I have mentioned, Cyprus has been white-listed among the Paris and Tokyo MoUs, meaning it is a high-quality flag with low risk compared to many other countries who have been gray or black-listed.

It should also be noted that Cyprus is excluded from the “list of targeted flag states,” which is kept by the U.S. Coast Guard. Cyprus’s absence from the list means that inspections of the yacht with a Cypriot flag are kept to a minimum and they will experience no unnecessary delays when entering and leaving ports.

Types of yacht registration:

Cyprus offers three types of registration, including provisional registration, permanent registration, and parallel (bareboat) registration.

       1. Provisional remains in effect for 6 months; after expiration, it can only be renewed once more for 3 more months.

       2. Permanent Yacht Registration  goes into effect 6 to 9 months from the date your yacht was provisionally registered.

      3. For Parallel / Bareboat Registration  your ship must hoist the Cyprus flag and “Limassol” must be marked as your port of registry. Parallel-in lasts for two years and is renewable. For parallel-out registration, your ship must hoist the foreign flag rather than the Cyprus flag and your port of registry must be the port of the foreign country. Parallel-out lasts for three years and is also renewable.

Liberia is the oldest democracy in Africa and one of the first offshore, zero tax jurisdictions. The Liberian ship registry is a favorite among owners of large vessels; the country has the second-largest registry in the world and makes up 12% of registered ships worldwide.

One of the perks of The Liberian Yacht Registration is that it is open to any ship-owner in the world and there are absolutely no restrictions on the nationality of your crew or country of construction. This makes Liberia appealing to many ship-owners who either cannot register somewhere because of their nationality or can only register by paying an additional fee.

Liberia has been white-listed on the Paris and Tokyo MoUs and has also been approved by the International Maritime Organization AND the U.S. Coast Guard. This, combined with the country’s other features, means that the Liberian Registry is known as “the world’s largest quality registry, renowned for excellence, efficiency, safety and innovative service”.

The following types of vessels can be registered in Liberia:

Vessels under construction, new buildings, vessels being transferred from other flags, offshore vessels, vessels in lay-up, and vessels involved in international, coastal, or domestic trading. You may also have a dual flag if your ship is bareboat registered.

The Liberian Registry is owned and operated by the United States. Additionally, service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making things very convenient for those wishing to do yacht registration under the Liberian flag. There are over 400 nautical inspectors, so there is always someone available to attend to vessels.

Vessels registered in Liberia are taxed with a fixed fee, which   depends on the tonnage of your ship. The tax is applied yearly, so there should be no surprises. However, t here are no taxes on operations and your profits are not assessed.

The Liberian flag is accepted in many EU countries — the United Kingdom, Germany, and Holland are only a few countries in the European Union that accept the Liberian flag. In addition, Liberia is highly rated for safety and accident prevention, which makes this country even more attractive for your yacht registration.

Liberia is recognized every year for having high standards. The country has an above-average performance in safety and accident prevention as well as in independent statistical reports. Liberia also has a network of 100 security inspectors to inspect ships when necessary; this is something that was implemented post-9/11.

According to information provided by the Liberian Registry website, “The “Maritime Services Award” is for exceptional achievement or contribution to any service sector of the America’s maritime industry by a company, individual, or organization. According to Lloyd’s List criteria for this award, “The winner must be able to demonstrate how they have set themselves apart, going above and beyond best practice to offer the shipping industry something exceptional.”

The Maltese ship registry is the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world; it is one of the most popular countries in the world for pleasure yacht registration. The country has EU compliant legislation, clear laws relating to yacht mortgages, low registration costs and is well respected across the globe.

Malta became a member of the European Union in 2004, so yacht registration here comes with the perks of sailing an EU flag, including protection by the British Royal Navy. Like the other countries I’ve mentioned, Malta has been white-listed, providing ship-owners with a sense of security when you go through the yacht registration process under the Maltese flag.

If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss national, you can hold your vessel in your personal capacity. However, if you’re a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen you must hold your yacht through a Maltese or foreign company.

When it comes to taxes, it is important to note that companies operating commercial yachts out of Malta are exempt from income tax on any income generated by the operation of their yachts. They are also exempt from any VAT tax on the high seas. What   sets Malta apart from many other countries besides tax policy is that there are no restrictions on the nationality of the master, officers, or crew of your ship.

Another perk that Malta shares with Liberia is that there is round-the-clock service, so you can feel safe and secure registering in the country. And, as long as you meet all flag requirements, any type of vessel can be registered — that means pleasure yachts, oil rigs, vessels under construction, and anything in between.

W hen it comes to the age or trading, boats between 10 and 15 years must pass inspection by an authorized inspector within one month of provisional registration and ships over 15 years old must pass inspection before being provisionally registered.

7. The British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands is the latest country to join the Red Ensign Group (2014). Now, the British Virgin Islands can register any type of ship and any size. Not only that, yacht registration under the BVI flag grants access to all the ports in the world. There are restrictions with almost all other registries when it comes to this, so the fact that a BVI flag gives you access anywhere sets the country far apart from the rest.

Another advantage that makes the jurisdiction one of the most attractive is that the British Virgin Islands is tax neutral. The islands are outside the scope of the EU value added tax (VAT) laws, meaning that there is no sales tax when purchasing goods or services.

As is the case with the Cayman Islands and Malta, the Red Ensign Group flag grants protection by the British Royal Navy to those vessels registered under the British Virgin Islands flag. Similar to the other countries listed, you can register under the BVI flag even if you are not a citizen and even if you do not own a company there; you will need to register a company in the BVI to do so, but this can be completed in a matter of hours.

When it comes to the registration process, it usually takes two to six months, meaning that it is not as short as some of the other countries, but it’s still not too terribly long.

As I have mentioned in previous articles, the British Virgin Islands has one of the most stable governments and economies in the world, which makes ship owners who register there feel very safe and secure when compared to other countries who have more enemies or corruption within the government.

Panama  is not only a popular place when it comes to offshore banking or getting a second passport, it also holds the largest ship registry in the world, having over 9,000 ships registered under the country’s flag.

Most countries require a minimum amount of weight, but Panama does not. The only exception to this rule is if your ship is older than 20 years, requiring that the ship is inspected in order to be registered.

There is usually some downtime when someone transfers their ship from one flag to another, but that is not the case when you are transferring to Panama. Panama has a very simple transferring process; for example, numerous other countries make you dry dock for inspection and Panama does not. Because their process is so easy, it eliminates the concern that ship and business owners have concerning downtime.

The good news for all the shipping companies, ship owners, and merchant shipping companies is that you can have dual ship registry in Panama, but if you were registered in the other country first, you must have consent from that country to register in Panama, too.

Instead of taking your ship’s size or tonnage into consideration, Panama charges a flat yacht registration fee to keep things simple. If you are not a Panamanian or an owner of a Panamanian business, you’ll pay a flat fee of $1,500 to register your yacht. If you are Panamanian, it costs $1,000 to register your yacht. Once you are registered, you will have access to Panama’s round-the-clock service.

Additionally, once you are assigned provisional yacht registration, you have six months to provide the proper vessel documentation to transfer your provisional yacht registration to permanent registration. Your yacht registration certificate is valid for two years and renewal costs are low.

Many countries require yacht owners to pay taxes when they register their ship, but Panama does not. There are also no taxes on profit that is made through international trade. You do not have to pay taxes on wages for your crew members either. The main reason people choose to register in Panama is this lack of taxes. When registering in Panama, people are legally reducing tax costs and that would not be the case if they were to register in many other jurisdictions.

There is no one best ship registry in the world, but there are many you can choose from to keep your investment safe. Finding the right one for you will depend on what you value when it comes to naval protection, taxes, privacy, and ease of travel.

If you have already registered your vessel, where did you choose to go for your yacht registration and would you recommend it to others? Feel free to comment below.

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Registering a boat: all you need to know about the administrative procedures

Have you just purchased a pleasure boat or are you considering purchasing it in the near future?

Required in most cases, the registration of the pleasure craft is an essential administrative step, to be carried out as soon as possible. When, why and how to register your boat are questions we provide you with valuable answers.

Our support service is dedicated to both boaters and nautical professionals at sea or in inland water.

Maritime and river navigation areas

Whether you want to go to sea or browse the river network (including canals, rivers and lakes) in France or internationally, the procedures and taxes depending on the technical characteristics of the boat are different.

While river navigation does not involve tax, registration is only valid for this area and is done with the DDT (Departmental Directorate of Territories) of the sector.

About the maritime navigation , it is managed by the DDTM (Departmental Directorate of Territories and the Sea), may be subject to taxes and offers the possibility of navigating not only in maritime territorial waters but also in internal river waters.

Registration of the vessel for navigation at sea

What is a boat registration.

Just like every land vehicle, boats and VNMs ( motor watercraft jet ski, jet ski, etc.) must be registered, whether new or used, if they meet certain criteria. This single registration must appear at a minimum inside the cockpit as well as on the hull of the boat in a visible manner, either painted directly or on a plate attached to the hull (performing the same role as the license plate on your car).

You should know that the compulsory registration in maritime zone only concerns boats whose length reaches at least 2.5 meters or who have a motor with a power greater than or equal to 4.5 kW .

For the sailboats over 7 meters , the name of the boat and the two letters of the registration area must be visibly displayed. For motor boats, the registration number will be entered.

How is the boat registration number determined?

In France, the boat registration for the maritime zone (coastal or offshore navigation zone) has 8 characters, a number assigned by the DDTM (Departmental Directorate of Territories and the Sea) formerly known as the Office of Maritime Affairs. The first two are letters corresponding to the registration area (there are 45 throughout France, including the overseas departments and territories) and the following six are a letter followed by five digits, as stipulated in the Decree of October 21, 2016 relating to the registration of ships and other vessels at sea.

For example, pleasure craft registered in Toulon may bear the following registration: TL A12345. In Ajaccio, it will be AJ A12345 and in La Réunion RU A12345.

In order to ensure the visibility of the registration , the French administration regulates the height of painted characters:

	no obligation	4 cm minimum
	4 cm minimum	7 cm minimum
	7 cm minimum (with registration visible on the stern of the boat)	12 cm minimum

For more information on the registration lettering , see the Decree of April 8, 2009 on identification marks for pleasure craft at sea, Article 5.

The registration number (or registration number) must be visible inside the cockpit and on the hull of the boat. The number followed by the letter F is inscribed on both sides of the vessel, while the name of the vessel is carried at its stern.

Create your registration stickers, name of boats & home port now using the navimmat online tool.

The boat's registration card.

Similar to the gray card of a land vehicle, the license plate is a document which contains various information:

• the name of the boat (or currency of the boat)
• the dimensions of the boat with length and width of the hull
• the type of boat: sailboat, motor boat, yacht, catamaran ...
• the year, place and method of construction
• the type and power of the engine if the boat is so equipped
• the name, first names and address of the owner
• the place of registration
• the registration number in the national register.

It must be in the possession of the owner each time he goes out to sea and during any land trip to prove his identity, his ownership and the compliance of the pleasure boat with the rules in force in the event of an inspection.

Why register a pleasure boat?

The registration is recorded in a national register in order to allow the French administration or other States (if you are sailing in an international zone or in the territorial waters of another country) to know the identity of the registered owner in the event of a disaster, rescue or assistance. This unique identifier being issued only under certain conditions, it also makes it possible to ensure that the pleasure craft is indeed compliant with current safety standards and that its owner is in good standing with the administration - navigation license , boating title ( traffic card and or act of francization granting the right to fly the French flag), payment paid from DAFN (Annual Right of Francization and Navigation) ...

Please note, the registration of the pleasure boat does not in any way replace your navigation license attesting to your ability to navigate, which you must hold.

When to apply for boat registration?

For a new boat, the dealer or manufacturer is likely to register provisionally the boat, allowing the buyer to sail for a month while the registration process is taking place. If this solution is not offered to you, you must make your request as soon as possible. first registration of a pleasure craft in order to be able to navigate.

Indeed, it is mandatory before launching the pleasure craft.

Get your first pleasure craft registration so you can sail.

As part of a second-hand purchase, there is a change of ownership therefore the new owner must request a new registration card (or a new deed of francization), by attaching the duly signed deed of sale.

For foreign boats, an application for first registration must be completed first, for which you must ensure that you obtain the certificate of cancellation of the previous flag beforehand. This request should be addressed to the Maritime Affairs office or to the Customs Service, depending on the characteristics of the boat.

Any change must also be brought to the attention of the administration in charge, such as a change of domicile of the owner, replacement of the engine with a different power ...

The owner keeps his navigation title as is, with a validity limit of 10 years for traffic cards and for an indefinite period for francization acts.

The necessary procedures and documents: new boat or used boat?

In addition to the registration request, the purchase of a new or used boat requires the gathering of a number of documents by the seller and the purchaser in order to finalize the transaction. These documents may differ depending on the location of the boat (in France or abroad, in the European Union or in other States ...) and depending on its characteristics. In the event of deletion from the maritime or river domain, the procedure also involves a separate procedure.

Selling a boat engine: a supervised procedure

One of the most recurring legal proceedings in the field of pleasure craft, the engines of pleasure boats are unfortunately subject to theft. This is why motorization is the subject of special attention by Maritime Affairs. It is therefore essential to have all the necessary documents at all times, especially during registration: supporting documents in the event of an engine change, purchase invoice, information on the engine in the deed of sale, identity documents. of the seller, etc.

Registration of pleasure craft for navigation in inland waters

If the navigation permit in the maritime zone allows access to internal waters (rivers, rivers, lakes, canals, etc.), the reverse is not valid. To navigate in inland water and register your new or used pleasure craft, the procedure is similar. However, the lead administration is changing, as is the software that issues traffic cards. While for maritime areas, the operation is carried out on the PUMA (Unique Maritime Portal) software, it is the SIMBA Boat Registration System which manages inland waters.

Indeed, whatever the type of river pleasure craft, the registration application is mandatory. Simplified for boats with a length of less than 20 meters and / or with a light displacement not exceeding 10m3 (data obtained by multiplying the length of the hull by its width and by the draft), it therefore becomes more complex that his light displacement exceeds 100m 3 or if the boat length exceeds 20 meters .

The registration application must be made to the Commercial Court of the Commune of the Supervisory Commission (there are 6 in the country, covering the entire metropolitan territory and Corsica).

Otherwise, registration remains necessary with the River Safety Instructor Center for pleasure boats with a hull length between 5 and 20 meters, a light displacement exceeding 10m3 or being equipped with a 6 HP engine (4.5 kiloWatts) and above, measurements below which the procedure is optional.

The change of owner or the withdrawal from the fleet must be brought to the attention of the instructor service within one month.

How to register your boat: the procedures

If in certain specific cases and in the pilot metropolitan departments, the administrative dematerialization service developed by the State makes it possible to apply for online registration for a pleasure boat intended for maritime navigation, this still only concerns a minority of very specific pleasure craft.

If you wish to register your boat, our specialist advisers will take care of your boat registration application file from A to Z. Our service dedicated to nautical professionals as well as to individuals takes care of all the administrative part, allowing you to concentrate only on the fundamentals. If in doubt about completing the form corresponding to your request, do not hesitate to contact one of our specialists.

How do I receive my new registration?

SIMBA (inland waters) and PUMA (maritime) boating registration software send your registration document by email as soon as it is ready.

As for the francization deed, you will receive it by post according to the time limit indicated during the request.

Navigation titles: traffic card or francization act?

Obtained from the DDTM for pleasure boating in maritime areas or from the DDT for navigation in inland waters, the traffic card is mandatory for any vessel of less than 20 meters in hull length according to its characteristics:

• at sea for jet skis and boats if they measure less than 7 meters and if they have a motor with power less than 22 administrative hp
• in indoor water if the boats measure 5 to 20 meters and if they have an engine with a real power of 4.5 kW (6 CV vapors) at least.

The request for act of francization (authorization to fly the French flag and application of French law for regulation and taxation) from the Customs Service is then not necessary because it only applies in the following cases :

• whether the boat (sailboat, motor or hand-propelled boat) measures more than 7 meters
• if the engine power reaches or exceeds 22 administrative CVs for pleasure boats or 90 kW real for VNMs
• if you are planning a navigation in foreign territorial waters .

The Motor Watercraft (VNM): what registration procedure?

A VNM is a craft measuring less than 4 meters in hull length and powered by a combustion engine.

Depending on their actual engine power, jet skis are also subject to different procedures, at least that of applying for a traffic card. When it reaches or exceeds 90 kilowatts, the VNM must also be francized and may be subject to either payment of the DAFN (Annual Francization and Navigation Fee) or to that of Annual Passport Fee .

The deed of sale for a pleasure vessel

Just like when you acquire a land vehicle, changing the owner of a boat involves completing a number of documents in order to be in order and to ensure the legal value of the transaction. The procedure differs depending on whether it is a purchase, an assignment in the event of a donation, an inheritance, whether it concerns the boat or only an engine ...

Go to our dedicated page and find all the deed of sale models.

The DAFN: a customs formality for French-language pleasure boats and VNMs

When a boat or VNM owner has obtained the French certificate for his boat, he must also pay a DAFN ( Annual Right of Francization and Navigation ) to the Customs Service. As of francization, payment is made each year depending on the length of the hull, the engine power, etc. Depending on the age of the vessel, a allowance for obsolescence is applied.

The DAFN is used to finance various services such as the French State, CELRL (Conservatoire de l'Espace Littoral et des Rivages Lacustres), SNCM (Société Nationale de Sauvetage en Mer) and various eco-organizations responsible for recycling ships.

In order to know the amount of your DAFN , we invite you to use our page dedicated to its calculation.

Flag radiation

Flag deregistration is compulsory in the following situations:

• before any new request for a new flag (e.g .: when you apply for a francization act to fly the French flag if the boat is foreign, the radiation certificate must have been obtained for the old flag)
• before any request for a change of zone to switch from the maritime zone to the river zone because the registration will be different.
• if you want to export or sell your boat (or jet ski) outside of France.

You now know, taking into account all the parameters, what procedure to undertake to register your pleasure boat and you can entrust us with your registration file. From there, we take over to carry out all the administrative procedures. With Bateau-immatriculation.com, boating has never been so easy!

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• Areas of practice

Ship/Yacht Registration

There are manifold reasons for registering a vessel/yacht in an official Register of Shipping either for seagoing or for inland navigation vessels. Yachts having a longer hull length than 15 m, for example, are under a legal obligation to be registered. Nevertheless, yacht registration becomes more important from an economic point of view, also – and in particular – in regard to pleasure yachts, especially in connection with lease and charter contracts.

Already at the time when buying a vessel/yacht the suggestive choice of the flag and country of registry should be taken into account. Among other things, it might be important in connection with the legal duty to provide sufficient evidence in all European waters that VAT on the vessel has been paid in a EU member state. We gladly support you by taking all relevant decisions and organize a proper yacht registration for you.

Our core areas of practice are:

Ship registration in Germany

• Choice of home port
• Registration of seagoing as well as inland navigation vessels
• Service to act as regional agent for EU-foreigners required for ship registration under the German flag
• International Tonnage Certificate (ship’s papers)

Ship registration abroad

• Channel Islands,
• Isle of Man,
• Cayman und British Virgin Islands,
• Gibraltar, and others
• Incorporation of ship-owning/-operating companies
• Contact and cooperation with our familiar communicating lawyers abroad in the respective countries

Statutory VAT rates in the EU

Advice on ship financing models and ship mortgages, contracts of sale and shipbuilding contracts.

• Supervision of change of title incl. the relevant documentation
• Concerning the crew
• Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS)
• “Small commercial vessel” according to MCA-rules

CONTACT PERSON

GERMANY FLAG REGISTRATION FOR BOATS - from €995

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עברית השכרת רכב

Register your yacht under Germany flag

Register your tender under Germany flag

Register your Jet Ski's under Germany flag

• 01.  BOATS
• 02.  YACHTS
• 03.  TENDERS
• 04.  JET SKI'S

Germany Flag Registration

Why should i register my boat under germany flag.

Personal or Private Use

You can register your boat in Germany under personal or company name

German registration is valid for 5 years.

From 995 EUR

Low price boat registration for boats, tenders, and jet-ski’s under the Germany Flag.

Valid Everywhere!

It's a valid European Union (EU) flag registration and is fully acceptable worldwide

Available In 3-5 Weeks!

We will have your registration done in 3-5 weeks.

No Restrictions

No maritime restrictions or distances apply on Germany flagged vessels

Private, Bareboat & Commercial

We can register your boat as Private, Bareboat & Commercial use – it is the same price

No Boat Survey

No technical survey required under 24 meters

ABOUT US & PRICING

Let the professionals take care of your registration..

Let our multilingual staff in Germany take care of your provisional registration in just 5-7 days. We have been helping hundreds of people to get their boat registered in Germany and have good contact with the local authorities which are based just around the corner.

We are available 7 days a week and can be reached by tell, email or chat in your own language. Our clients are from all over the world as most countries have a very complicated and expensive boat registration procedure but by having their boat registered in Germany this can be avoided.

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Testimonials

We’ve proud trusted clients..

I bought a boat in Spain but choose to avoid the cost and 3 months of paperwork by registering my boat in Poland. Best decision ever!

Brian Newsome

Thank you, for your fast registration! I was stuck in a marina in Italy and these guys got my new registration in 48 hours.

Frederico Guilbert

Flawless service, done for the price stated online, in the time period, and document delivered on time within 2-5 days

Brad Foreman

Highly recommended. It was a very fast communication, all the people I communicate with are polite, proffesional and specialist in their field.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

We accept all major payment methods.

What paperwork is needed

• A Power of attorney for us to take care of the registration (we provide this to you)
• Declaration of Conformity and CE Certificate for the yacht (copy is ok)
• Builder's Certificate (copy is ok)
• Copy of the UBO’s identity card (UBO= Ultimate owner of the boat)
• Copy of an utility bill from the UBO. The invoice or letter should indicate the address that is also indicated on your identity card.
• Current ship registration documents and cancellation certificate from the pre-registration or non-registration certificate in relation to the Yacht;
• Our KYC form (know your client) questionnaire (we provide this to you)
• In case of EU company owning the vessel: notarized and apostilled corporate documentation of the foreign company (Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Article of Association, Certificate of Good Standing)
• 2 x photos of the yacht:1 x side and 1 x stern view of the Yacht (real photos)
• The value of the Yacht (last purchase price paid).
• Our application form with client details, boat details like: manufacturer, type, power, year of construction, engine number, length etc.

Most common questions about Germany yacht registration

What nationalities can apply for the german flag.

German registration is available for German residents and citizens or for corporation from the EU.

Can I register my boat as a commercial or bareboat charter?

In Germany, you can register your boat for individual, bareboat, or business use.

How long will it take for my yacht to be registered in the GERMAN?

In Hamburg, it is possible to obtain an English provisional registration certificate from the court right away, confirming that the application for the ship registration has been properly filed and that the yacht will soon be registered in the ship register. Typically, the process for obtaining the ship certificate takes about 3-5 weeks. With the aid of this certificate, one of our clients is now authorised to operate his yacht under the presumption of a provisional registration.

How long is a registration for the German flag good for?

What documents are required to register the boat.

• A duplicate of the boat's UBO's identification card
• A replica of a utility bill from the UBO. The invoice or letter should include your address, which is also on your ID.
• Paperwork for the most recent ship registration, as well as the Yacht's pre-registration or non-registration certificate's cancellation certificate;
• A Power of Attorney authorising us to manage the registration (we provide this to you)
• Conformity Declaration and Yacht CE Certificate (copy is fine)
• Certificate of builder’s certificate (copy is fine)
• Two photographs of the yacht: one of the side and one of the stern (actual photographs); the yacht's value (last purchase price paid).
• Our application form includes customer information as well as boat information, including manufacturer, type, power, construction year, engine number, length, etc.
• Our KYC (know your client) form survey (we provide this to you)
• If an EU firm owns the vessel, the foreign company's corporate documents (such as a Certificate of Incorporation,
• Articles of Association, Certificate of Good Standing, and Memorandum)

What does it cost to have your boat registered under German flag?

For the creation of the ship's tonnage certificate, the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) will charge €250,

Ship registration: The fee for the Maritime Register of Shipping is determined by the ship's valuation plus €25.

For a one-time price of €995, we handle all paperwork, document filling, and provide you with a local registered German law firm to act as your local agent. You are still responsible for the government taxes.

How much does a German MMSI radio licence cost?

We can handle all of the (German) paperwork required to submit a Radio, MMSI licence request. The MMSI licence can be provided with your yacht registration or separately for a price of €250 (all government expenses included).

Are there any safety standards for ships flying the German flag?

• No certificate is needed if used privately.
• A Boat Certificate ("Bootszeugnis") is necessary if renting out a boat for bareboat charter.
• A "Safety Certificate for Recreational Craft" and "Safe Manning Certificate" are needed if the craft is operated professionally.

Are inspections required?

A precise measurement is made on board the ship in accordance with the International Convention on Ship Measurement's regulations for vessels that are 24 meters in length or longer (as stated in Art. 2, Paragraph 8 of the International Convention on Ship Measurement, London 1969).

Following that, these ships are issued an international tonnage certificate (ITC 69, International Tonnage Certificate 1969).

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept all international payment methods.

Do you accept documents in all languages?

Documents are accepted in English; we will take care of the sworn translation if needed.

How can I delete the current GERMAN registration?

The Return of a Flag Certificate Form must be completed, printed, signed, and sent to the United States. This form is only accessible in German.

Please be prompt with your application submission. The order in which applications are received will determine how they are handled. You should prepare for a lengthier processing time if there are many applications.

Most of the time, we need to have the original registration paper back so we can include it in the termination dossier we have to present to the maritime authorities. You will receive a "proof of deletion" once the cancellation has been executed, which you can use to enable a fresh registration.

Would It be possible to register a boat that was home-built?

That is certainly doable. However, you must give us the invoices for the major components of the boat, such as the hull, engine, mast, etc. A tonnage certificate and some images of the boat's construction are also required.

Is it possible to register a yacht before it is completely built?

That is certainly doable. For this, we require a builder’s certificate containing all relevant information, including the name of the boat's maker, owner, and model.

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Germany has various shipping registries, each with its own procedure. For vessels of less than 15 meters, which operate only on European inland waterways, there is a choice between a regional or national register. For large vessels or sea voyages, registration takes place through the court. Registration takes between 15 and 30 days, depending on the shipping register in question.

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Delaware Registration Details

Changes Made By Delaware Authorities:

In the last week of February 2023, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and the United States Coast Guard have issued a notification regarding boat registrations. Effective immediately, boat registrations will only be accepted for vessels operating within Delaware waters mainly.

Annual Renewal Of Registration:

Delaware authorities made changes for renewal as well. For the annual renewals, you have to show a proof (Marine/Customs document) that you have visited US by boat in the past 12 months.

Required Documents:

1- for the first time registration (under private owner name).

• Owner Passport copy
• Bill of sale, must be notarized and if it is in some other language, we need certified English translation
• 14 digits HULL identification Picture, taken from boat
• Previous registration copy
• De-registration/Deletion copy of current flag

2- Registration under company name (Delaware LLC)

• You can register the boat under an LLC or any other company name. We can assist you to setup an LLC under which you can register your boat. The following documents are required.
• Passport copy of LLC/Company owner
• Bill of sale, notarized and must be in English or certified English translation copy
• HULL identification picture

3- De-Registration/Deletion certificate:

• Owner Passport copy/ Company or LLC document copy (if under company name)
• Current Delaware registration copy

4- Ownership Transfer under same Flag:

• New owner passport copy.
• Bill of sale (previous owner to new owner, must be notarized, In English)

5- For Boat name change or up gradation in current Registration:

• Current Delaware Registration copy.

6- Annual Renewal of Registration:

• Owner Passport copy/LLC document copy (if under company name)

Satisfied Clients

Luxurious boats, experiented crew, premium facilities, offering spacious yachts for the ideal party experience.

Step aboard our expansive yachts for an unmatched party experience where luxury meets the open sea. Perfect for any celebration, our boats provide ample space, ensuring comfort and elegance for you and your guests. Imagine dancing under the stars, toasting to the horizon, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Let the gentle waves be your backdrop as you indulge in the pinnacle of party sophistication. Your ideal event awaits on our spacious yachts.

Discover vast oceans aboard luxury yachts, endless adventure awaits.

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• One-time registration fee, valid for a lifetime.
• Valid worldwide.
• All nationalities can apply.
• Register under the company name or private person’s name
• Recreation and commercial registry option.
• Provisional document in 3-5 working days.
• Original card within 3-4 weeks by courier.
• No survey is needed under 15 meters boat.

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What customer say.

I recently went through the boat registration process, and I must say it was a breeze from start to finish. The entire experience left me impressed and satisfied. One aspect that stood out was the guidance provided regarding required documentation. The platform outlined exactly what was needed, and I appreciated the clarity. It saved me time and ensured that I had all the necessary paperwork in order.

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United States

The boat registration process was incredibly efficient. The online platform was user-friendly, and I was able to complete the necessary steps with ease. The clear instructions and intuitive interface made the whole process a straightforward experience. The customer service team was exceptional. They were prompt, knowledgeable, and eager to assist.

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Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Boat registration, what to do and where to go, register & title your vessel, frequently asked....

• I Want to Title and Register my Boat
• I Want to Renew my Registration
• I Can't Find my Title (or Registration Card or Decals) and Need a Replacement
• Information on my Boat Title is Wrong. How do I get it Corrected?
• I’ve Sold (or Destroyed my Boat) - Now What Do I Do?
• If you have any questions, please contact your local service center

How do I know if my vessel must be registered in Maryland?

Your vessel, whether commercial or recreational, must be registered in Maryland if it is:

• Equipped with any kind of primary or auxiliary mechanical propulsion; and
• Used in Maryland most in a calendar year.

Note: US Coast Guard documented vessels using Maryland waters are NOT exempt from the vessel excise tax. When used principally in Maryland, documented vessels must display a documented use decal.

If your vessel was purchased in Maryland and will use Maryland waters a majority of the calendar year, you are liable for vessel excise tax and must register the vessel within 30 days of purchase to avoid assessment of penalty and interest.

If your vessel was purchased elsewhere or previously registered in another jurisdiction, is now in Maryland waters, and will use Maryland waters more than any other single jurisdiction during the calendar year, you are liable for vessel excise tax and must register the vessel within 30 days of entering Maryland waters.

If your vessel is duly registered in another jurisdiction but remains in Maryland waters more than 90 days in a calendar year, you may be liable for vessel excise tax unless you can prove principal use in another jurisdiction.

What is "principal use?" 8-701 of the State Boat Act

“State of principal use” means the jurisdiction on whose waters a vessel is used or to be used most during a calendar year, which is the period from January 1 through December 31.

“Use” means to operate, navigate, or employ a vessel. A vessel is in use whenever it is upon the water, whether it is moving, anchored, or tied up to any manner of dock or buoy. A vessel is also in use if it is kept in any structure in readiness for use.

When must I apply?

Vessel excise tax must be paid within 30 days of Maryland tax liability to avoid the assessment of penalty (10% of vessel excise tax due) and interest (1.5% per month).

Vessel in Disrepair at time of Purchase

If you are given a boat because it is no longer operational or is in very poor condition, or the purchase price is much lower than fair market value because of the boat’s current condition, be sure to title the boat in your name within 30 days of purchase. Refer to the What documents will I need? section on this webpage to ensure you have all of the required documents. The certified bill of sale should detail the condition of the boat and list the items that are not operational on the vessel. Photographs of the poor vessel condition may be required to confirm a much lower Fair Market Value. If you wait to title until work on the vessel is completed, vessel excise tax will be assessed against the higher value of the restored boat.

What documents will I need?

All documents must clearly identify the vessel by hull identification #, assigned boat # (ex: MD 1234 AB), or USCG documentation #.

Vessel is currently titled in Maryland

• Original Maryland title (properly assigned – purchaser name, seller’s signature and date, purchase price)
• Section 2 – taxes/fees – must also be calculated and entered
• Sections 4 through 7 must also be completed, all purchaser’s must sign in section 7
• Original Certified/Notarized Bill of Sale if purchaser’s name, sale date or price is missing from assignment of title

• Original lien release if seller’s title shows a recorded lien
• Original Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, and
• Original Certified / Notarized Bill of Sale if the Certificate of Origin does not contain the purchaser, purchase price and date of sale and signature of all owners. A certified bill of sale is a bill of sale that contains the following statement: "I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the facts in this bill of sale are true and correct". A bill of sale must include the names of the buyer and the seller, date of sale, seller’s signature, purchase price and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number and/or current registration number).

New Vessel Purchased via Internet

When a vessel is purchased via the Internet, and is shipped with a manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO) that contains no signature or a preprinted signature, or purchaser is directed to a website to create the MCO, the following is required to establish ownership:

Vessels 12’ in length and smaller DNR Form B-240 Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin Pencil tracing or photograph of Hull identification number Evidence of payment Vessels greater than 12’ in length DNR Form B-240 Original Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin Fully executed by the manufacturer Original Certified / Notarized Bill of Sale if the Certificate of Origin does not contain the purchaser, purchase price and date of sale and signature of all owners. A certified bill of sale is a bill of sale that contains the following statement: "I declare and affirm under penalty of perjury that the facts in this bill of sale are true and correct". A bill of sale must include the names of the buyer and the seller, date of sale, seller’s signature, purchase price and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number and/or current registration number).

Used Vessel

Vessel is registered in a title state: DNR Form B-240 Original title (properly assigned – purchaser name, seller's signature and date, purchase price) Original Certified / Notarized Bill of Sale if purchaser's name, sale date or price is missing from assignment of title A bill of sale must include the names of the buyer and the seller, date of sale, seller’s signature, amount of sale and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number and/or current registration number). Original lien release if seller's title shows a recorded lien. Vessel is registered in a non-title state: DNR Form B-240 Copy of out-of-state  registration card or a true test copy of that state’s official vessel record Original Certified / Notarized Bill of Sale A bill of sale must include the names of the buyer and the seller, date of sale, seller’s signature, amount of sale and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number and/or current registration number). Original lien release if card or record shows a recorded lien When previously U. S. Coast Guard documented DNR Form B-240 Original/Certified Notarized Bill of Sale A bill of sale must include the names of the buyer and the seller, date of sale, seller’s signature, amount of sale and vessel description (year, manufacturer, hull identification number and/or current registration number). Photocopy of seller’s Certificate of Documentation USCG Abstract of Title (contact U. S. Coast Guard at 1-800-799-8362) Release of ship’s mortgage (if applicable)

Documented Vessel (for use decal and/or tax payment)

• USCG stamped Bill of Sale that includes the selling price.
• Photocopy of current Certificate of Documentation.

Please Note: The National Vessel Documentation Center (U S Coast Guard) is aware that there are commercial entities that offer to manage the certification/renewal process on behalf of vessel owners for a fee. The Coast Guard does not endorse any of these companies, and they do not operate on behalf of the Coast Guard in any way. Any fees charged or agreements offered by such companies are in no way associated with the NVDC certification process. I n addition, these companies are not authorized to issue any form of documentation, including travel letters and/or permits that authorize operation of ANY vessel. In order to operate any vessel in Maryland waters, you must have registration, either state registration and decals or the documented use decal.

IMPORTANT NOTE (ALL BOATS): Verify that the hull identification number (HIN) engraved or embossed on the hull of your vessel matches the HIN recorded on your ownership documents. If they do not agree, contact a DNR Service Center for instructions.

Abandoned Boat

This process is not a remedy for an individual who has lost a vessel title or was not given a title when the vessel was purchased. In those instances, the purchaser should (a) contact the owner of record to secure a replacement title, which can then be duly signed over to the purchaser, or (b) contact a DNR Service Center for further instructions.

Homebuilt Boat

Where do i title/register my newly acquired vessel.

Title/Registration documents can be presented in person or mailed to one of the Maryland DNR Service Centers.

How do I renew my vessel registration?

There are now several options to renew your vessel registration:

• Online, either through the DNR Compass Portal or Motor Vehicle Administration eStore by clicking one of them below
• DNR Compass Portal
• Motor Vehicle Administration eStore
• In person (by appointment only) or via mail at one of the Maryland DNR Service Centers
• Motor Vehicle Administration Kiosk

Please note if you renew your vessel registration online or through the MVA eStore or Kiosk you will have the ability to print a receipt that you will need to keep on the vessel that will be good for up to 30 days. You should however, receive your registration/decals within approximately 10 business days of purchase.

Click here for step-by-step instructions on how to renew using one of the online options listed and to also see if your vessel meets the criteria of eligibility to renew online.

The DNR Form B-201 A should be used when renewing the registration for boats already registered in Maryland only when the official renewal application cannot be located.

How do I get replacement title, registration card or decals?

In to order to obtain a replacement title, replacement registration card or replacement registration decals the DNR Form B-108 - Application for Replacement or Corrected Title, Registration or Decals will need to be completed and forwarded to any DNR Service Center either in person or by mail.

How do I correct the information on my boat title or registration card?

If any information on your boat title or registration card needs to be corrected the DNR Form B-108 - Application for Replacement or Corrected Title, Registration or Decals will need to be completed and forwarded to any DNR Service Center either in person or by mail.

What fees will be due?

5% VESSEL EXCISE TAX imposed by 8-716 (c) (3) (ii) of the State Boat Act on the purchase price or fair market value of all vessels used principally in Maryland. Excise tax must be paid within 30 days of Maryland tax liability to avoid assessment of penalty and interest.  There is a minimum tax of $5 and effective July 1, 2022, a maximum tax of $15,700.

When the sale occurs through a licensed boat dealer, 8-716(a)(3)(i) of Maryland’s State Boat Act allows credit for a traded vessel. Vessel excise tax is assessed against the purchase price less the value of any vessel traded in as part of the consideration for the sale. Credit may not be given for any other trade (e.g. RV, motorcycle). The trade-in value may not exceed the value for the trade-in vessel as shown in the national publication of used vessel values adopted by the Department – the BUC Book.

When purchased within the last 3 years, the Bill of Sale or reassigned title establishes the purchase price of the vessel (including motors, spars, sails and accessories, but not the trailer). When more than 3 years have elapsed, the department uses the BUC Book to determine current fair market value, using an average of the low and high retail value.

All vessel excise tax is deposited into the Waterway Improvement Fund, dedicated to improving Maryland’s waterways through dredging, the placement of navigational aids, the construction of boating access facilities, boater safety education and law enforcement.

8-716(f) of the State Boat Act allows reciprocity credit for excise or sales tax previously paid to another jurisdiction if:

• The vessel was formerly titled or numbered in another jurisdiction; or
• The vessel was formerly federally documented and principally used in another jurisdiction; and
• The present owner paid a sales or excise tax on the vessel to the other jurisdiction (proof required – validated receipt, etc.); and
• The jurisdiction to which the tax was paid would allow an equivalent exemption or credit for vessel excise tax formerly paid to the State of Maryland.

A member of the armed services serving on active duty in the state is exempt for one year. The exemption applies only to vessels currently registered elsewhere and brought into Maryland because of the duty transfer. New purchases are not exempt.

A vessel transfer between immediate family members is exempt from vessel excise tax including the $5 minimum tax when:

The family members meet the definition of ‘immediate family’ as described below; and:

• Vessel is currently titled in the State of Maryland -or -
• The out of state vessel was previously titled in Maryland by the family member -or -
• USCG Documented Vessel owner has previously paid Maryland Excise Tax

COMAR 08.04.01.01(B) (16) "Immediate family" means spouse, son, daughter, mother, father, sister, brother, grandmother, grandfather, son-in-law, father-in-law, mother-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandson, granddaughter, stepfather, stepmother, halfbrother, halfsister, stepson, or stepdaughter. The term includes persons so related by virtue of adoption.

A vessel placed with a Maryland licensed dealer or broker for resale is exempt from vessel excise tax provided (a) the vessel is titled or numbered in another state or is federally documented, and (b) the owner signs an affidavit that there will be no use of the vessel on the waters of the state other than for a sea trial.

$2 TITLE FEE $24 REGISTRATION FEE Vessels 16 feet in length or less and/or propelled by a motor of 7.5 hp or less must display a 2-year registration decal but are exempt from the fee. The 2-year registration decal is valid for the calendar year in which it is issued and the subsequent year, expiring on December 31. $10 DOCUMENTED DECAL (required of USCG documented vessels in lieu of the registration fee) $15 SECURITY INTEREST FILING FEE (if a lien is to be recorded) Checks or money orders payable to the "Marland Department of Natural Resources" must be for the exact amount due.

What do I do when I sell my boat?

Vessel owners must notify the department within 15 days if a vessel is sold or destroyed. Notification should include date and circumstances (purchaser name and address, amount of sale) and be forwarded to a Licensing & Registration Service Center either in person, by fax, or by mail. Registration decals should be removed from the vessel if you will be requesting a refund of the second year’s registration fee ($12). Contact any Licensing & Registration Service Center for Form 158-A Application for Refund, and submit along with the registration card and both decals to any Licensing & Registration Service Center in the first year of the vessel’s two-year registration.

BOATING FORMS

(These are Adobe Acrobat files and require the free Acrobat Reader. )

What about my boat trailer?

Boat trailers are registered with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration 1-800-950-1682.

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Registrations

On This Page

Renew online, registration renewal kiosks, vehicle & trailer registrations , license plates, new fl residents.

• Military Members
• Insurance Requirements 
• Mobile Homes
• Commercial Vehicles

• Renew your vehicle registration at kiosks at select locations throughout Pinellas County.
• Kiosks accept credit or debit cards only.
• There is a 2.3% convenience fee per kiosk transaction.
• English or Spanish instructions guide you through the process, making it nice and easy. 
• Please note - kiosk renewals are not available for customers with holds or stops on their account.

Tax Collector Locations:  

• North County  – 29399 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33761  
• Mid County   (TEMPORARILY CLOSED) – 13025 Starkey Rd, Largo, FL 33773  
• Gulf to Bay  – 1663 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33755  
• South County  – 2500 34th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713  

           

Publix Locations:  

• Park Boulevard Plaza – 4701 Park Blvd N, Pinellas Park, FL 33781  
• Bay Pointe Plaza  – 5295 34 th  St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711  
• Riviere Plaza  – 35439 US Hwy 19 N, Palm Harbor, FL 34684
• NEW!   Bardmoor Promenade – 10801 Starkey Rd, Seminole, FL 33777
• NEW! Beckett Lake Plaza – 1921 N Belcher Rd., Clearwater, FL 33763

MORE INFO & OTHER KIOSK LOCATIONS

Important Info:

• All motor vehicles and trailers (including boat trailers) that are operated on public roadways must be registered. 
• Florida uses metal license plates that must be displayed on the back of the vehicle. 

• A copy of the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) and a bill of sale showing a complete chain of ownership
• A certified weight slip if the trailer is over 500 lbs
• A bill of sale showing a complete chain of ownership along with a complete description of the trailer (VIN, manufacturer, year)
• Find Florida weigh stations!
• If the weight is not listed on the title, a weight slip is required
• Either bring the trailer for verification OR
• Bring in  Form HSMV 82042 ,  VIN Verification Form, filled out by a notary or other approved person as outlined on the form
• For information about titling trailers that are 2,000 lbs or more, please visit our title page

Expiration Dates:

• Most registrations will expire at midnight on the first registered owner’s birthday. 
• Vehicles registered in a company name will expire on June 30 th . 
• Trucks weighing over 5,000 lbs empty weight  AND  with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) weighing 8,000 lbs or more will expire on December 31 st .   

Replacements:

Lost   

• If the plate or decal was applied for by mail or online and lost in transit, no replacement fee will be charged if the date of issuance is 180 calendar days or less. 

Stolen   

• A police report or the report number on a law enforcement agency’s business card or victim’s pamphlet 
• A completed Application for Replacement License Plate, Validation Decal, or Parking Permit - Form HSMV 83146  

Damaged/Defaced   

• License plates and decals that have sustained physical damage or have become illegible due to factors such as fading caused by the sun should be replaced. 
• Florida offers three standard license plate options including   the county name plate, “Sunshine State” plate, and the “In God We Trust” plate.
• In Florida, all license plates are required to be replaced every 10 years and will be done so at no additional fee. 

Specialty plates :   

• This fee is applied to the fund used to support the cause for which the plate was designed. 
• A $5.00 annual processing fee is also collected.  
• Specialty plates may also be purchased before the current plate is due, at an extra price of $28. 
• Check out available specialty plates on the FLMSHV website !

Personalized plates:   

• You can order your personalized plate at one of our offices ( Please note:  appointments are encouraged and prioritized - schedule one  online )
• A personalized license plate can be ordered at any time. 
• The first time a personalized plate is issued, a manufacturing fee of $28.00 is charged, along with the other costs, taxes, and fees.
• Check the availability of your personalized plate online !

Temporary Plates:   

• Florida law provides for a variety of legal uses of temporary license plates. Temporary license plates may be used for a period of 10, 30, or 90 days according to the reason why the plate was issued. 
• When a motor vehicle or trailer is required to be weighed for registration purposes
• When a motor vehicle or motorcycle is required to have a VIN verification to apply for a FL certificate of title
• A temporary license plate cannot be issued in place of renewal of the license plate currently assigned to the vehicle
• When the purchaser of a motor vehicle/motorcycle is waiting for the Florida certificate of title to be released by the previous owner's lienholder
• When an out-of-state resident, subject to registration in this state, must secure ownership documentation from their home state
• When a motor vehicle, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle is sold in this state to a resident of another state for registration in their home state and is not required to be registered under the provisions of section 320.38, Florida Statutes. Sales and use tax will apply.  
• A ninety (90) day temporary license plate may be issued to a customer upon application for a personalized or special license plate, while the license plate is being manufactured

Surrendering a Plate:

• Before your car insurance is cancelled
• When a vehicle is sold
• When you move out of state and cancel your Florida insurance
• Your driver license could be suspended if you do not surrender your plate during the above situations.
• Please include a note with your contact info and why you are surrendering the plate
• PO Box 6288, Clearwater, FL 33758-6288 
• If you need to surrender a plate that is not registered to you, this will require a visit to one of our offices. ( Please  note  appointments are encouraged and prioritized - schedule one  online )
• If the plate is not physically available – you will need to complete a UDS 305 Multi-Purpose Affidavit and provide that along with your ID at the time of service

***IMPORTANT:  When surrendering a plate, the yellow decal cannot be removed and placed on another plate or item

• In the state of Florida, a motor vehicle is required by law to be registered within 30 days of the owner either becoming employed, placing children in public school, or establishing residency.
• Registering your motor vehicle goes hand in hand with the titling process.
• Motorcycles   
• Trailers   
• Boats   
• Mobile Homes   
• Off-Highway Vehicles   
• State issued driver license / ID card (includes US Territories)   
• Passport from any country   
• Canadian driver license / ID card   
• Either bring your vehicle for verification or
• Bring in  Form HSMV 82042 , VIN Verification Form, filled out by a notary or other approved person as outlined on the form 
• Out-of-state registration or renewal notice (can be up to six months after expiration) 
• Verification from the Department of Motor Vehicles
• A copy of the out-of-state title 
• A letter/fax from the lienholder 
• For a leased vehicle, you need to bring the lease agreement and registration
• All owners must be present. In the event one co-owner cannot be present, an authorized power of attorney form,  HSMV 82053 , may be completed, and the original signed form along with a copy of the absent owner’s valid identification must be presented at time of transaction.    
• Any business is required to submit documentation showing it is a registered business.   

    

• However, a credit may be allowed for a like tax paid in another state or territory of the United States or in the District of Columbia, against the amount of Florida sales or use tax and local discretionary sales surtax.

MILITARY MEMBERS

Title and Registration:

• Non-Resident military members stationed in Florida have the option to title and register their vehicle in Florida, or they may display a current license plate from their home state.
• A vehicle maintained in Florida must have Florida insurance.  
• Florida resident military members stationed in another state are permitted to submit out-of-state insurance when registering motor vehicles. You must fill out the  Military Insurance Affidavit and comply with the requirements listed.  

Military Service-Related Plates :

• Florida offers several military service-related plates, many of which require certain qualifications .
• View the Florida Military License plate brochure online!

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS 

• Be insured with personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) insurance at the time of vehicle registration
• Additionally, vehicles registered as taxis must carry bodily injury liability (BIL) coverage of $125,000 per person, $250,000 per occurrence and $50,000 for (PDL) coverage.  
• Have continuous coverage even if the vehicle is not being driven or is inoperable. Surrender the license plate/tag BEFORE cancelling your insurance.  
• If you are new to the state, you may ask your agent to transfer your current insurance to a Florida policy.  
• Military members stationed out-of-state/country may be exempt .   

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE INSURANCE

• 26,001-34,999 lbs. GVW = $50,000 coverage  
• 35,000-43,999 lbs. GVW = $100,000 coverage  
• 44,000-80,000 lbs. GVW = $300,000 coverage  
• A split limit policy is acceptable if the policy limits meet or exceed required coverage.
• Vehicles with a GVW of 10,000 pounds or more which transport hazardous materials, as well as all for-hire interstate carriers, are required to carry $750,000 CSL coverage.   

MOBILE HOMES

Registering a Mobile Home

• The registration period for mobile homes runs from January 1st to December 31st.
• Registration fees are determined by the length of the mobile home.
• Double and triple wide mobile homes are considered separate units, and a registration decal must be purchased for each unit. 
• Mobile homes are issued registration decals that must be displayed in the lower left corner of the window of the mobile home that is closest to the street that provides access to it.  
• Visit the FLHSMV MyDMV Portal to renew your mobile home registration or replace a lost or stolen registration decal online.

Real Property Mobile Homes   

• The unit must also be tied down and hooked up to the normal and usual utilities.  
• A permanent “Real Property” decal will be issued and is transferrable to new owners when the land and mobile home are sold as a unit.  
• The completed form will need to be submitted to the tax collector’s office when applying for a “Real Property” registration decal. 
• The DR-402 must be submitted to the tax collector’s office in the county that the mobile home is physically located.