VAT
A vessel's VAT status continues to be a complex issue for boat owners particularly in light of the changes resulting from Brexit
The RYA VAT Guide for Boats provides you with an overview of VAT in the context of boat ownership. It includes considerations when buying new and second-hand boats in the UK and the EU. Where possible references to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) notices and guidance are provided.
Only HMRC can provide a definitive decision on the status of a particular boat - contact information can be found in the RYA VAT Guide for Boats. We provide guidance on the regulations and also help you to identify the correct questions to ask HMRC.
If, having read through the documents, you have any queries please contact:
- For enquiries relating to buying and selling boats, the Legal Team Tel: 023 8060 4223. Email: legal@rya.org.uk
- For enquiries relating to a boat you already own including boating abroad, entry and exit formalities for the UK or information relating to a boat’s location at the end of the Brexit transition period (2300 UTC on 31 December 2020) the Cruising Team Tel: 023 8060 4233, Email: cruising@rya.org.uk
Related Resources
Please note that the Government guidance (dated 29 December 2021) was re-published in an update format on 16 May 2022. We are in the process of updating this guide to align with the new format.