Buying a second-hand yacht in Greece can be exciting, but incomplete documentation may turn an attractive purchase into a costly problem. These seven checks help buyers identify questions before paying a deposit.
Whether you are considering a sailing yacht in Lefkada, Preveza, Corfu or elsewhere in Greece, a sea trial and survey tell only part of the story. The vessel's documentary history matters too. Records may have passed between several owners, flag states, brokers and marinas. Before transferring money, ask for copies and arrange independent verification of material claims.
1. The current certificate of registry
Request the current registration certificate and check the registered owner, vessel name, registration number, flag, dimensions and identifying particulars against the yacht offered for sale. Confirm directly with the relevant registry where possible. Registration is not always conclusive proof of unencumbered ownership.
2. The complete chain of Bills of Sale
Ask for the Bills of Sale or equivalent transfer instruments linking earlier owners to the present seller. Look for missing links, inconsistent dates, discrepancies in vessel identifiers and sellers who do not appear to have authority to transfer the vessel. A continuous paper trail is useful evidence, but it is not by itself a guarantee of good title.
3. Original purchase invoices and VAT evidence
Request original VAT invoices, import documentation and any other evidence relevant to the vessel's tax history. A statement that a yacht is “VAT paid” should not be accepted as a substitute for documentary examination. The applicable position depends on the vessel's circumstances, transaction history and movements; specialist advice may be necessary.
4. Customs and Union-status documentation
Where relevant, seek documentation concerning importation, exportation, customs declarations and evidence of Union status. A T2L or other document may be relevant in some circumstances, but not every yacht requires the same paperwork. Customs status and VAT treatment are distinct questions. Ask a suitably qualified customs specialist or the relevant authority to verify the position where uncertain.
5. Registration history and deletion certificates
If the yacht has changed flag, request previous registry extracts and deletion or deregistration certificates. Compare names, dates, hull identification numbers and owners across the records. Missing or conflicting records warrant further investigation before completion.
6. Evidence of mortgages, charges and authority to sell
Obtain available registry searches or transcripts for recorded mortgages and charges, together with evidence of any discharge. Check the seller's identity and, where an agent or company is selling, the authority of the signatory. Not all claims or liens will necessarily appear on a registry search, so ask for specialist advice on the relevant jurisdiction and transaction.
7. The sale agreement, deposit terms and supporting records
Read the proposed sale agreement before paying a deposit. Identify the parties, vessel, conditions for survey and sea trial, documentation obligations, completion timetable, deposit holder, refund provisions and remedies if an essential document cannot be supplied. Seek independent advice about escrow or stakeholder arrangements and avoid transferring funds solely on verbal assurances. Supporting marina, maintenance and insurance records may help corroborate a yacht's history, although they do not replace title documents.
What should you do if a document is missing?
A missing document does not automatically mean a transaction is improper. It does mean the gap should be explained and assessed. Ask the seller or broker for the relevant record, identify the authority or professional able to verify it, and consider making completion conditional on satisfactory evidence. For substantial uncertainty, pause before releasing funds.
Independent documentary support from SGSLC
Sian Gissing Strategic Legal Consultancy assists international yacht buyers with documentary research, ownership-history review, identification of VAT and customs evidence gaps, and structured transaction-preparation questions.
Book a 60-minute consultation — £185 or explore our Document Review & Maritime Strategy service — £495.
Important: This article is general information, not a legal opinion, tax determination or confirmation of title or customs status. SGSLC provides unreserved consultancy, research and documentary support, not reserved legal services. Obtain advice from appropriately qualified legal, tax, customs and marine professionals for your particular purchase.