For those USA, Australian, New Zealand and other non European residents who want to cruise the Mediterranean, and perhaps cruise through the French, Dutch and Belgian Canals (highly recommended), the idea of obtaining a boat in Europe has its attractions. For one thing the long ocean crossing can be avoided. There is also the possibility of having the boat built in the low cost labour countries of the former Eastern block. The very reasonable building and labour costs of the UK (compared with Germany and certain other EU countries) make acquiring a suitable boat in this area worth serious consideration.
The recently enacted European Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) and the requirement to pay VAT on boats remaining in EU waters for over 6 months, make it a sensible alternative for non EU residents to buy their boat within the EU. Non EU residents who bring their boats into EU waters will need to pay the VAT or limit their stay to less than 6 months. Currently one 6 month extension is usually granted thus making a one year stay a practical consideration.
Cost saving is not the only reason (although it can be a very good one) for building or re-fitting a used boat abroad. In some cases time restrictions, unwillingness of your partner to undertake long ocean crossings, and numerous other circumstances may make the idea of starting from a distant port an attractive option.
