When it comes to registering a yacht in Switzerland, the certificate of seaworthiness plays a crucial role.
This document is not only for safety, but is also a legal requirement for yacht owners who want to proudly fly the Swiss flag on the seven seas.
In this article, we discuss the importance of the seaworthiness certificate, the associated regulations and how it can be obtained in a destination such as Croatia or Italy.
Table of contents
What is a seaworthiness test and why is it important?
A seaworthiness inspection is a thorough inspection of a yacht that assesses whether the vessel is safe for navigation.
This is a comprehensive and expert assessment of the structural integrity, the machine(s), the equipment and the safety systems on board.
The importance of this inspection should not be underestimated, as it ensures the safety of passengers and crew while helping to protect the marine environment by ensuring that yachts flying the Swiss flag comply with national and international regulations.
What regulations apply to yacht registration in Switzerland?
Numerous guidelines must be observed for registration under the Swiss flag:
Proof of insurance
In order to register a yacht in Switzerland and obtain a Swiss flag certificate, owners must provide proof of liability insurance that covers damage to third parties or property.
The exact regulations and instructions for this can be found on the website of the Swiss Maritime Navigation Office (SSA)
Proof of ownership and financing
Ownership of the yacht must of course also be proven in a suitable form by means of a purchase contract, deed of gift or certificate of inheritance.
In the case of co-ownership, the corresponding quotas must be proven and the corresponding contract and the authorization form must be submitted.
Seaworthiness and equipment
The seaworthiness and equipment must be checked during a physical inspection of the boat by a qualified surveyor or a classification society.
Emission and environmental standards
The engines must comply with current emission standards and it is checked whether the boat has suitable pollution prevention equipment.
Value added tax and customs clearance
If a yacht is registered under the Swiss flag for the first time, you will also need to provide proof of the correct payment of VAT and customs clearance.
Please note that this issue can be very complex, especially when buying used yachts, and it is best to make inquiries with the relevant customs and tax authorities in advance.
Who can carry out a seaworthiness test in Italy or Croatia?
A seaworthiness certificate for a yacht that wants to sail under the Swiss flag can also be issued in Croatia or Italy.
Qualified and certified institutions and inspectors are authorized to issue these certificates.
They inspect the ships according to international standards and issue the seaworthiness certificate, which is then accepted for registration in Switzerland.
As a member of the International Institute for Marine Surveyors (IIMS), we also carry out such surveys in Croatia or along the upper Italian Adriatic.
What does a certificate of seaworthiness cost in Croatia or Italy?
The cost of issuing a seaworthiness certificate for yacht registration in Switzerland for yachts moored in Italy and Croatia depends primarily on the size (overall length) and type.
It also depends on whether the seaworthiness inspection is carried out as part of a purchase appraisal, for example, or as a separate service.
And last but not least, any travel costs naturally also play a role.
For further information and a personal offer, please use the contact form below.
