Customs and Registration formalities for superyacht tenders
For those navigating the intricate world of yachting, understanding the role of regulations around yacht tenders is essential. These support vessels are indispensable, serving the mothership by transporting guests, collecting provisions and enabling water-based activities that superyachts cannot manage.
Superyachts, exceeding 24 meters, often come equipped with custom luxury tenders stored in stern garages. These tenders can serve as high-speed transport, pleasure craft, or platforms for water sports like wakeboarding and diving. Larger yachts might also deploy chase boats, independent, high-capacity vessels designed to scout anchorages, transport guests or provide additional storage and amenities. Similarly, support vessels often carry bulky items like watercraft or even helicopters, which the mothership cannot accommodate.
Yacht Tenders are typically considered part of the mothership’s inventory and are marked with T/T (Tender To) followed by the yacht’s name. However, specific regulations apply depending on the tender’s size and whether it operates independently. There are different categories, such as unregistered tenders and registered tenders, each subject to specific customs and registration requirements.
Here’s a brief guide to the types, functions and key considerations for yacht tenders:
What is a Yacht tender?
A yacht tender is a smaller vessel designed to serve and support a primary yacht. Its duties range from transporting goods and passengers to towing inflatables and offering recreational opportunities. The size and type of tender often depend on the mothership’s dimensions, onboard storage systems and intended use.
Types of Yacht Tender
The type of tender varies according to the size of the yacht served. However, yachts of all sizes may have one or more Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats (RIBs). Tenders can be towed behind a yacht at slow speeds or lifted onboard if heavier to prevent damage at cruising speeds. Their storage depends on the yacht’s size, with smaller yachts typically towing dinghies, while larger vessels use davits or store tenders on deck or cabin. Some multifunction dinghies now offer added utility, serving as lifeboats and being rowed, motored or sailed.
They can divide into three main categories:
1. Inflatables: Lightweight and easy to store, inflatables feature air chambers and sometimes hard floorboards for added stability. They’re ideal for compact storage and quick deployment.
2. Rigid Boats: Made of materials like fiberglass or wood, rigid boats are robust and versatile, often serving as open-deck vessels or center console fishing boats. However, their weight and bulk can present storage challenges.
3. Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs): Combining a rigid hull with an inflatable tube, RIBs offer stability, durability and extra buoyancy, making them a popular choice for tenders. Their design minimizes damage during close operations.
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Our specialized Customs Team is here to provide expert advice and tailored solutions to meet international requirements, ensuring your yacht tenders comply with all regulations for smooth and seamless operations.
Feel free to contact us at customs@evolutionagents.com for assistance.
Evolution Yacht Agents is the leading-edge team of professionals dedicated to providing assured and quality support and services to yachts in Spanish waters.
A full range of superyacht specialized services includes: charter license & legal advice, TPA (Vat exemption), customs & logistics operations, provisions & interior supplies, deck & engineering supplies and crew & VIP services.
