Malta Eases Restrictions On Private Yachts That Carry Over 12 Passengers
Malta Eases Restrictions On Private Yachts That Carry Over 12 Passengers
YACHT CHARTER HURDLES
There is a big hurdle for large families and groups. These people seek to enjoy a private yacht charter vacation in Malta. The hurdle is partially lifted by the yachting registration authorities in Malta.
Specifically, late December, 2016, Transport Malta made a change. They are the administrative authority that oversees regulations for yachts flying the flag of Malta. They introduced new guidelines for private yachts. In addition, the rule applies to yachts carrying more than 12 guests.
RESTRICTIONS IN MALTA
This issue is long a stumbling block to the charter industry. Most private charter vessels are restricted to carrying no more than 12 passengers. Moreover, even if enough cabins were available to accommodate more than 12 guests. Yacht owners who wanted to bypass this restriction had problems. They were forced to build their vessels to standards established for commercial ships and cruise liners. This added enormous costs to the project. Most yacht owners elected to avoid the extra costs and burdensome regulations. They build luxury charter vessels for 12 or fewer guests.
Maltese authorities saw an opportunity to reduce restrictions on private yachts built to high safety standards, and to allow these safe, well-built and professionally-operated vessels to carry more than 12 passengers. Ivan Sammut, registrar general for the Maltese flag, explain how Malta saw a gap in the market. “You have to evolve to stay relevant in this marketplace,” states Sammut. “Malta hopes to be more than just a European flagging alternative; we have a holistic view of the superyacht market and want to become a turnkey destination for private and commercial superyachts alike.”
NEW CERTIFICATION GUIDELINES
The new certification summary is in the “Guidelines for Pleasure Yachts Carriage Capacities.” It is part of an ongoing Maltese initiative to introduce contemporary standards. Specifically, in the area of private yachting. To qualify, a superyacht seeking to register in Malta and fly the Maltese flag.
Must be over 24 meters.
Not navigate beyond 150nm (nautical miles) from safe haven.
Be in class and in possession of the necessary stability booklet.
Comply with the Maltese Commercial Yacht Code.
Comply with all applicable international conventions.
Carry requisite safety equipment based on the number of persons on board.
Maintain a crew compliment in line with the commercial yacht code.
COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, views the new regulations as long overdue. “It’s discouraging to turn away a large, extended families of 13 or more from their dream of enjoying the superyacht experience together on one yacht. We anticipate many superyacht owners with vessels that feature cabins and capacity for more than 12 guests to register their yachts in Malta. This is one more contemporary component in the growth of our private luxury yacht charter industry, and we hope other flagging authorities will follow Malta’s lead.”
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters. Providing The Superyacht Experience(R) since 1976. Private luxury yacht charter vacations in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Bahamas, South Pacific, South Florida, Miami and The Keys, Italian Rivera, Belize. Megayacht charter company focused on generosity, Pay it Forward, Random Acts of Kindness, Giftivism, giving back to the ocean, to the needy, and the environment with every superyachting charter. Providing eco-friendly alternatives while on yacht charters and known for 6-star customer service, experience, and generosity. One of the original yacht charter companies. View all posts by →
Agata
I am wondering… is it possible to register for VAT in other European countries these private yachts? Can these private yachts initiate a *charter* in Malta, or other European countries?
Each season, the owners of each yacht decide which areas they wish to make their yachts available for charter. Then, they DO register in those areas. So for example, a yacht that wants to offer charters in France and Italy will register for VAT in those countries.
Additionally, some countries require yachts obtain charter “licenses” before being allowed to charter in their waters. Examples of this are Greece, Croatia and Spain.
YES, we CAN start charters in Malta. Keep in mind, most charter yachts are not based in Malta, and you may incur a “delivery fee” (the cost of fuel) to relocate the boat from its home port, to Malta.
Please share with us your charter inquiry details, and we’ll get started in finding a great yacht for your vacation!
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Agata
I am wondering… is it possible to register for VAT in other European countries these private yachts? Can these private yachts initiate a *charter* in Malta, or other European countries?
Jana Sheeder Post author
Dear Agata,
Each season, the owners of each yacht decide which areas they wish to make their yachts available for charter. Then, they DO register in those areas. So for example, a yacht that wants to offer charters in France and Italy will register for VAT in those countries.
Additionally, some countries require yachts obtain charter “licenses” before being allowed to charter in their waters. Examples of this are Greece, Croatia and Spain.
YES, we CAN start charters in Malta. Keep in mind, most charter yachts are not based in Malta, and you may incur a “delivery fee” (the cost of fuel) to relocate the boat from its home port, to Malta.
Please share with us your charter inquiry details, and we’ll get started in finding a great yacht for your vacation!
With appreciation,
Jana L. Sheeder
President
1-800 Yacht Charters
Delivering The Superyacht Experience(tm) Since 1976