Essential Documents for Boat Owners in Europe

You’ve got a boat, your holiday is booked and you’re excited about exploring new territories. But what documents are you legally obliged to have on board at all times? And what extra arrangements should be made to make sure you are covered for every eventuality? This is a quick reminder of the European requirements which can be demanded by maritime officials at any time; plus some extra recommendations.

Be warned that photocopies are useful and multiple copies should be made of each document if you have a boat in Spain, but they are not always accepted by officials who may expect to see the original paperwork.

Do you intend to use a friends boat? Make sure you have a letter from the owner of the boat stipulating that no money has changed hands. Without this authorisation officials may think the boat is being chartered illegally.

1) Boat registration documents: This applies to all boats, dinghy’s, RIB’s and jet ski’s – even if they are on a trailer. If you have a SSR-registered vessel it is highly advisable to also carry the bill of sale.

2) Radio licenses and equipment: These are both a legal requirements in Spain, and many other countries throughout the Europe, as per International Radio Regulations. For more information about licenses click here. Radio equipment includes: VHF or DSC radio, radar, Active Radar Target Enhancer, EPIRB and PLB.

3) Vessel insurance policy: Make sure this is valid and has not expired. You should also consider getting this document translated so relevant to the country you are visiting. Your policy provider can advise on this.

4) Proof of VAT / IVA status: This has been a huge issue in Spain in recent years, be warned your boat may be detained if customs are unsure the VAT on your vessel has been paid.

5) Passports: In 2012 Spanish authorities stipulated that all members on board boats should have their passports to hand at all times, including on land. If you have a non-EU member on board prompt them to have easy access to any visa papers.

6) Licenses: The RYA Day Skipper and RYA Power Boat Level 2 (or equivalents) are the absolute minimum requirements for yacht and power boat skippers; Personal Watercraft Certificate for jet ski handlers, on the Costa Blanca. Port Captains can be awkward so our suggestion to yacht skippers is to infact have the RYA Coastal Skipper – just to be on the safe side. Commercial skippers wishing to work in Spain must seek legal advice from specialist maritime solicitors at this time due to ongoing legislative complications; we highly recommend Iberian Yachting Services SL.

7) Medical care: A private travel / health insurance policy which is valid within the EU or, for UK citiziens, the  European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a must. For more info about the EHIC in Spain click here.

Apart from that take care and enjoy your boating trips this year!