Legal security in the sale of boats
The sale of a boat is not limited to receiving the money and handing over the keys. As it is a movable asset that can be registered with the General Directorate of the Merchant Marine, the law requires formally notifying the change of ownership in the ship registry so that the seller is legally released from future accidents, unpaid port fees, and fines.
Key documents that the seller must provide
If you are the seller, you must have the following documentation ready to give to the buyer or the nautical management office:
- Updated Seat Sheet: It is the maritime registry document that details the technical and ownership history of the ship. It must be free of liens, embargoes, or financial lease (leasing) annotations. It is requested at the Maritime Captaincy.
- Airworthiness Certificate and Navigation Sheet (Role): They must be current and reflect the last Technical Vessel Inspection (ITB) passed favorably.
- Boat Station License (LEB): If the ship has VHF radio equipment with LSD.
- CE Declaration of Conformity: Essential for boats manufactured after 1998.
The Nautical Sale Contract
It is the main legal document. It must be signed on all its pages by the buyer and the seller and specify with total clarity:
- Complete identification of the parties (DNI, name, address).
- Exact technical data of the boat (Brand, model, hull number HIN, name of the vessel, and registration number).
- Main and auxiliary engine data (Brand, model, serial number, and power).
- Agreed sale price and payment method.
- Date and time of delivery to define responsibility in the event of incidents on the water.
Editorial Sea Management
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