European purchase and shipping

[DigIt]

Normal caveat..not sure this is the correct Forum so I apologize in advance.

I've always admired the sleek lines of European boats (I'm in the 20 - 40' cruiser range). They seem to pack so much more into an 11' beam.

With the current exchange rate and strength of dollar, these vessels are getting really affordable! I have 3 examples whereby EU vessels, that if I bought from a U.S. dealer, have a base MSRP price of $100,000 +/- HIGHER than if I went through an EU dealer.

I have a quote from a well established German boat dealer for a nicely appointed 33' cruiser (European boat of the year winning manufacturer) with great lines. 222,000 Euro. ($247,000 U.S.). Exact same boat, exact same options, quoted from a U.S. dealer - $343,000!

Many manufacturers offer U.S. versions that can be ordered as an option (mostly electronics related). Engines are all well known, Mercs or Volvos. Shipping quotes are coming in around $18k

Now, given all of that background. What am I not thinking about? How do I 'accept' the boat off the ship? Customs? (Duty is 1.5%) etc etc. Anyone on this board done this?

Thank you in advance for any replies and I look forward to hearing your experiences and/or thoughts and suggestions.

Cheers,

Steve

[dohenyboy]

Sevenstar or Dockwise will bring it over for you and help you with the process.


Why can't things remain where i carelessly left them?