Buying a Yacht in Philippines and Departing

[docgav]

I am considering buying a yacht currently in the Philippines and cannot find advice on the customs fees and what needs to be done to arrange departure by a yacht after arriving by air. The Yacht is in transit (Hong Kong Registered). Thanks!

[daddle]

Very difficult to know for sure. You'd need to consult with a Philippines yacht attorney....if there's such a person. You might get hit with sales taxes or duties. Local folklore may be a good guide. Delivering on the high seas might be a better option. Check out, sail out, transfer, sail back, check in. Might take some explaining and there's the problem of not having the new certificate....

Maybe the local Lloyd's office would know?

[fishwife]

I'm not for a moment suggesting there is a problem with your purchase. Just be aware that there are some scams going on with yatcht sales supposedly in the Philippines. Don't part with any money until you are sure the boat exists and you have seen it with your own eyes. There are some threads on here about it. I've searched but I can't find them. Perhaps others can highlight them.

P.

[bangkaboat]

docgav,
It is simple; there should be no issues, ergo, departure fees, etc.
I should point out, if you visit the local coast guard office, they will extract a fee from you because... it's The Philippines. Make sure, however, that you have the clearance documentation.
Mike

[Laidback]

Originally Posted by docgav

I am considering buying a yacht currently in the Philippines and cannot find advice on the customs fees and what needs to be done to arrange departure by a yacht after arriving by air. The Yacht is in transit (Hong Kong Registered). Thanks!

PM sent.

[Boracay]

I've looked into a few situations in the Philippines and the one common thread has been that after a few basic checks by someone not related to the seller all sorts of very interesting information starts to come out of the woodwork.

If I'd rushed into a few of the deals that I looked into I'd be very much sadder, wiser and poorer now (and maybe much deader too!).

[docgav]

Thanks Mike,
I have inspected the boat and it is what I am after. Nothing heard from Philippines customs to my enquiry. I guess I arrive and go to customs to clear out with the right documents and see what happens.

[imagine2frolic]

Google Philippine boatyard builders, and there are several sites. Possibly a letter to one will give you your answer. These folks sell boats, so they very likely will know.......i2f

Andy Smith Boatworks/Junction Boatworks Inc. Home Page

[imagine2frolic]

Showing up in the Philippines expecting for things to go smoothly is a bad idea. Arm yourself with information along with documents. MANY OFFICIALS have thier hands out, and especially for anything of value. I can only imagine how big the hand will be for a yacht. You will be looked upon as a filthy rich foreigner, and possibly become prey. It's just the way it is there.........i2f