Change of Vessel List in Spain

Changing a vessel's registration is a necessary administrative procedure when the use of a boat changes, whether from recreational to professional or vice versa. At Gestoría del Mar, we manage the change of vessel registration between List 6 and List 7, ensuring compliance with current maritime regulations and carrying out the entire process with the Maritime Authority, both in Barcelona and throughout Spain.

What is a change of vessel registration?

Changing a vessel's registration involves modifying its administrative classification within the Spanish maritime registry. This classification determines the permitted use of the vessel and the legal, technical, and tax obligations associated with its activity.

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Difference between list 6 and list 7

In Spain, vessels are registered on different lists depending on their use:

List 7: recreational or sports boats, not for commercial use
List 6: vessels intended for commercial activities, such as nautical charter

When is it necessary to make a list change?

Changing the list is mandatory in situations such as:

Start of nautical charter activity

If you decide to start chartering your boat or running commercial excursions, it is essential to change your registration from Schedule 7 (recreational use) to Schedule 6. This change will allow you to operate legally as a yacht charter company and obtain the appropriate passenger liability insurance.

Cessation of commercial activity and transition to recreational use

When you stop operating your vessel commercially and return to using it for private purposes, you must change the registration to a 7th list. This will allow you to avoid paying taxes and insurance associated with commercial activity and comply with recreational boating regulations.

Administrative regularization of the vessel

If your boat's current classification doesn't match its actual use, you need to regularize the situation to avoid penalties. Updating the registration ensures that the vessel complies with the required technical and tax obligations.

Changes in the operation of the ship

Whenever you change the way you operate your vessel (for example, from professional fishing to tourist rental or vice versa), you will have to update its registration in the Ship Registry to adapt it to the new type of activity.

Documentation required for changing the vessel list

The documentation may vary depending on the type of vessel and the direction of the change, but it generally includes:

Vessel documentation

You must provide the title deed, the registration certificate or the certificate of seaworthiness and any other documentation that proves the legal and technical status of the ship.

Owner identification (DNI / CIF)

It is mandatory to attach a copy of the ID card or NIE if the owner is a natural person, or the CIF and deed of incorporation if it is a company.

Updated technical certificates

It includes the certificate of seaworthiness, ITB inspection reports or other certificates that guarantee that the vessel meets the technical requirements of the new use.

Safe and suitable for the new use

You must present an insurance policy that covers the risks inherent in the new activity (for example, passengers in the case of charter), with a minimum coverage established by law.

Proof of payment of fees

Changing the list involves paying administrative fees; you must attach proof of payment made to the corresponding entity.

Other requirements according to current regulations

Depending on the type of vessel and the intended use, additional authorizations, modifications to safety equipment, or health certifications may be required.

Agency specializing in changing the vessel registration list

Our nautical agency, based in Barcelona, offers a specialized vessel registration change service throughout Spain. We work both in person and online, simplifying the process for shipowners and companies.

Advantages of entrusting the change of registry to a nautical management company

Compliance with maritime regulations

We keep up to date with the legislation and ensure that all your documentation complies with current regulations, avoiding errors or returned files.

Avoid administrative penalties

We manage your file correctly so that you do not suffer penalties for misuse of the list or non-compliance with legal requirements.

Saving time and paperwork

We handle all the paperwork with the Maritime Authority and other administrations for you, saving you travel and waiting time.

Personalized advice

We analyze your case and propose the best option based on your objectives and the type of vessel, resolving all your doubts.

Peace of mind throughout the entire process

We keep you informed of the status of your file and resolve any issues until you obtain the new registration and authorization for the new use.

We answer your questions

Change of vessel list