Vanuatu Now Open to Charter Yachts

Until now, it has been against the law to charter a superyacht in and around the South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. But now, following changes to the Import Duties (Consolidation Amendment) Act No. 29 of 2013, there is a legal way for charter yachts to operate in the area.

Under Vanuatu law, a superyacht is defined as a pleasure craft with the value of $2million and a crew of three or more. To operate within Vanuatu with paying guests, the amended Act states that a superyacht should:

- Hold globally recognised survey credentials authorising it to charter

- Attain consent to charter from the Licensing division of Ports and Marinas in Vanuatu

- Assign a local agent registered for VAT who holds an up-to-date commercial licence to operate as a yacht’s agent

- The local agent assigned by the yacht must pay VAT on every purchase made by the yacht while in Vanuatu and on any charter costs

It is up to the local Customs Office to ensure the approval of these yachts, allowing them to discover the treasures Vanuatu has to offer.

It is hoped that these efforts to allow superyachts into Vanuatu will bring with it much needed funds to help promote the area as a safe, consistent and attractive vacation destination.

Take a look a the selection of yachts available to charter in and around the South Pacific.

For more information on these changes to Vanuata yacht charters talk to your yacht charter broker.

It is hoped that these efforts to allow superyachts into Vanuatu will bring with it much needed funds to help promote the area as a safe, consistent and attractive vacation destination.