Sardinia Luxury Tax on Mediterranean Yacht Charter Vessels Abolished

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In January we informed our readers of a new Italian yacht tax signed into law in December 2011. The tax is effective May 1, 2012. It assesses a fee for each day a yacht is in service in Italian waters.
Superyacht industry experts, like Jana Sheeder, President of SailAway Yacht Charters and 1-800 Yacht Charters, and others, urged Italian authorities to analyze the economic impact of the pending legislation.
“Our concern was the quest for increased tax revenue might have a far-reaching effect on both the charter industry. In addition, ancillary businesses that support yachting such as marinas, fuel brokers, shipyards, and tourism offices,” said Sheeder. “Even if you exclude charter revenues, support-related industries on their own generate €200,000,000 in annual revenue.”
To their credit – the Italian lawmakers listened.
On Tuesday, February 21, the 10th Commission of the Italian Senate for Industry, Commerce, and Tourism passed the Grillo and Cutrufo amendment to the Italian berth tax legislation. The amendment stipulates the berthing tax will only be applied to Italian citizens who own a vessel, even if the yacht flies a foreign flag. Foreign citizens who own a boat or Mediterranean yacht charter vessel are exempt from this tax, regardless of their length of stay in Italian waters.
Fulvio Luise, President of Federagenti Yacht Division, expressed his satisfaction comments. “The passing of this amendment is an important recognition to the economic impact the yachting industry has in Italy and we look forward to welcoming new and returning megayacht clients to Italian waters this summer.”
Sheeder echoed Luise’s sentiments:
“This amendment will allow Italy to continue to compete on an equal playing field with neighboring countries for the charter sector of the Mediterranean yachting market. We’re hopeful that the Italian yacht charter market will continue to flourish for many more years.”
This entry was posted in Educational Yacht Charter News Frequently Asked Questions and tagged Mediterranean yacht charter, Jana Sheeder, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, yacht charter Italy, rent a yacht, charter a yacht, Grillo and Cutrufo Yacht Charter Amendment, Federagenti Yacht Division, yacht charter tax, luxury yacht tax
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COVID 19 update from 1-800 Yacht Charters. In specific, Italian tax authorities have postponed new laws designed to increase VAT on Italian yacht charter vacations. The postponement appears to be in response to the effect of Covid-19 on tourism.
Fortunately, private yacht charter vacations remain exempt from the tax increase until November. Accordingly, 1-800 Yacht Charters will continue to Deliver the Superyacht Experience™ to their clients at a lower-than-expected tax rate.
Tax increases were first announced in December 2019. The conversion of Law Decree n. 124/2019 (by Law n.157/2019) and the 2020 Italian Budget Law (Law n. 160/2019) enact new value-added tax (VAT) measures. The law set the VAT rate at 22% for Italian luxury yacht charter vacations. That law is postponed until November 1, 2020. The old rates will remain in place. VAT is set at 6.6% for yachts over 24 meters. VAT is set at 8.8% for yachts under 24 meters.
In other words, private yacht charter vessels and crews can still welcome-aboard guests in Italy at a favorable VAT rate below 10%. The Superyacht Experience™ will continue this summer. Tourism in Italy suffers from Covid-19 shortfalls. Italian authorities are hopeful favorable VAT rates will stimulate tourism. New (higher) VAT regulations will be in effect after November 1st, 2020.
Italian VAT applies to all charters embarking in Italy. Special limitations apply to yachts registered in Italy. Government fiscal agents require an appropriate amount of cruising to qualify for the reduced VAT. For example, at least one crossing from Corsica or Sardinia to mainland France or Italy qualify for the reduced rate.
Italian-flagged yachts are not subject to this limitation. Specifically, no long-distance crossing requirements exist.
In conclusion, certain Covid-19 protocols remain in place. Requirements include masks in public areas. In addition, no Covid-19 test requirement exists, although quarantine requirements may exist for some origins. For example, public transportation is operating, and restaurants are open.
Our team stays on top of all Covid-19 updated information. For instance, we provide a list of available yachts and “summer saver discounts.” Call our team at 1-800 Yacht Charters at 305-720-7245 for immediate response.
Important to note, travelers from the USA face possible travel restrictions to Italy. Don’t let this stop you. You can still enjoy The Superyacht Experience™. Stay safe, and remain closer to home this summer. We’d love to plan a yacht charter vacation for you like this one!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations News Frequently Asked Questions Educational and tagged superyacht Ouranos, yacht charter Sardinia, Italy Yacht Charter VAT, VAT increaase postponed, long-distance crossings, Italian VAT, Covid protocols, Corsica yacht charter, What is required of Italy yacht charter vessels during Covid-19 pandemic?, yacht charter France, Covid-19 test, Italian-flagged yachts, summer saver discounts on yacht charter, yacht charter Italy, Ouranos, Italy yacht charter, Covid-17
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PERSHING 115 – Mistral 55
After a major refit in 2011, the Pershing 115 motor yacht MISTRAL 55 will be available for the first time as a charter yacht this summer, along the Italian Riviera.
Based in San Remo, Italy, this high-speed open yacht is available in the Mediterranean from € 70,000 per week in the low season and € 90,000 per week in the high season.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News Yacht of the Week Educational and tagged yacht charter Italy, Italian Riviera, Mistral 55, fast, Pershing 115, fast charterboat, Italian yacht charter, high performance
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VAT taxes on yacht charters
Every summer, hundreds of well-heeled travelers migrate to the Western Mediterranean. They travel there to enjoy a private yacht luxury charter vacation. Coastal towns like Nice and St Tropez in France participate. San Remo and Portofino in Italy also host dozens of superyachts. The boats bring charterers from around the world. It is an affluent vacation. Even the wealthy cringe. Specifically when their exclusive yacht rental holiday receives VAT charges often in excess of 12%. They know the value of their hard-earned dollars. We make sure that their memorable and valuable vacation funds are spent wisely.
Imagine spending €725,000/wk to rent a yacht. For example, Admiral superyacht PLANET NINE as your holiday hire. Just envision incurring an additional €87,000 in VAT? Ouch!!!
Over the years, we composed many blogs about the challenges of VAT taxes. Yacht rental guests need to stay aware of the laws. In some years, yacht charters were VAT exempt. In others, the exemption was rescinded. The rates go up, down, and often vary among various European Union countries, like France, Spain, and Italy.
Fortunately, with a little advance planning, it might be possible to reduce your charter’s VAT liability by up to 50%. Jana Sheeder, our company’s President explains:
“If you rent a luxury yacht for a vacation in the South of France, say, Nice, Antibes, Cannes, and neighboring Monte Carlo (in the principality of Monaco), you will incur a VAT charge of 12%. However, if leave European Union waters during your charter, the VAT is reduced by 50%. The easiest way to accomplish this is to schedule an overnight run to the island of Sardinia, off the French coast. Spend a day of so in the area, then cruise back to the South of France. Not only is this a worthwhile itinerary, you’ll also enjoy a tremendous discount in your VAT expenses.”
To accomplish this, and to be in full, legal compliance with the European Union statutes, Jana adds a clause. In specific, to the client’s yacht charter agreement that reads, in part,
“It is agreed between the parties that the yacht will cruise in international waters for part of the itinerary, which has not been determined, so VAT will only be charged on the 50% of the charter fee. In the event the yacht does not cruise in international waters and VAT becomes due on the total amount of the charter fee, the charterer hereby agrees to pay the outstanding VAT on the total amount of the charter fee in cleared funds and without delay to the stakeholder. VAT is calculated with a lump sum reduction of the time spent in EU waters in application of BOI-TVA-CHAMP-20-50-20-20120912 Article 90.”
In addition to reducing VAT expenses in France, it’s also possible to find similar savings in other Western Mediterranean destinations. Similar money-saving strategies apply for charter yacht luxury vacations in Italy as well.
For example, if a charterer wants to start and end a 10 night trip in Naples, Jana will encourage the client to end the charter in Sardinia, to the west, or Sicily to the south, in order to cruise through international waters, and qualify for a reduced VAT fee.
In conclusion, with just a little advance planning, it’s possible to save thousands of dollars on your next luxury rental yacht vacation!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News Educational and tagged yacht charter video, Video, save money on vat, yacht video, Jana says, yacht charter France, president, Mediterranean yacht charter, how to save money on a yacht charter, Jana Sheeder, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, vat taxes, yacht charter Italy, lower taxes on yacht charters, Jana L. Sheeder, Planet Nine, VAT
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Italian-built superyacht OLAH revved everyone’s engines recently. The owner announced a 25% price reduction AND a secured trackside berth for the 2011 Monaco Grand Prix.
The 47.5 meter yacht originally offered a 5-day race package for Euro € 159,000. She then reduced that price to Euro € 120,000 for 5 nights, including the berth. All running expenses, such as fuel, food, and bar, are extra.
The 2005 Italian megayacht is a regular fixture on the summer Mediterranean yacht charter circuit. She has Walter Franchini Design, with a light and elegant interior by Cristiano Gatto Design. Yacht OLAH (x-KOLAHA) accommodates up to 10 guests. She can host up to 40 guests while in port for race watching and corporate cocktail receptions.
Yacht charters are one of the most popular ways of experiencing special events like the Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival, Mipim, or Fashion Weeks.
“At this late date, it is critical to have a secured superyacht berth,” states Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and SailAway Yacht Charters.
“Yachts without secured berths will be anchored in the bay, far from the race and the related onshore activities.“
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Special Events Yacht of the Week and tagged Mediterranean yacht charter, Walter Franchini, Jana Sheeder, Cristiano Gatto Design, Monaco Grand Prix, president of 1-800 Yacht Charters, yacht charter Italy, Olah, Kolaha, Rola, secured berth at special event, Italian superyacht, F1 race
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ANNAGINE sailing yacht
This entry was posted in Yacht of the Week Yacht Charter Destinations Special Offers and tagged sailing yacht, Dykstra & Partners Naval Architects, sailboat charter, JOM, yacht charter Italy, JOM Yachts Holland, Sardinia yacht charter, Annagine
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You are planning a luxury mega yacht charter this summer on a Mediterranean yacht. The Luise Group, leaders in maritime agency services to the superyacht industry, makes an announcement. They took over management of the Ponente Quay (Molo di Ponente) of Lacco Ameno on the Island of Ischia.
The marina known previously as Heaven’s Quay. Further, it is renamed The Seventh Heaven Yacht Club.
It is a volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea. In specific, about 30 kilometers from Naples, Italy, at the northern end of the Gulf of Naples. It is a frequent destination for sail boat charters and mega yacht charters.
The Seventh Heaven Yacht Club, located on the northern part of island of Ischia, can accommodate twelve mega yachts, and the marina covers an area close to 16,000 square metres. The pier, which is 140 metres in length, offers all essential necessities including water, electricity, and mooring posts.
The renamed facility will now figure prominently among the most prestigious ports and marinas that are currently managed by the Luise Group.
Luise Associates is the branch of Luise Group with an exclusive dedication. In specific, to maritime agency services for mega yachts. They work with over 600 yachts cruising. Further, in the Gulf of Naples each year.
Francesco Luise, Managing Partner of Luise Group commented, “We are very proud to be able to take under our management the main dock in Lacco Ameno, Ischia. Although the area of Lacco Ameno is one of the smallest counties on the Island of Ischia, it is a prestigious and visually beautiful location for superyachts to berth. The Seventh Heaven Yacht Club will permit us to have a permanent presence in the area while continuing to provide the best in maritime agency services to our clients.”
This entry was posted in Destinations Educational and tagged yacht charter Italy, Italy yacht charter, Ischia, Seventh Heaven Yacht Club, Francesco Luise, Luise Group, Lacco Ameno, Gulf of Naples, Heaven's Quay, Italy
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Planning a luxury sailing charter?, Or a week cruising on a motoryacht? Sardinia is truly a cruising paradise. Specifically, with crystal clear waters and quiet anchorages.
Last week, we introduced our readers to the enchanted island. In other words, through our blog post called Sardinia’s location off the coast of Italy.
Today, we take a look at the island, itself. We surely recommend top four things to do in Sardinia.
1. Visit BOSA. Away from the coast, much of the countryside is mountainous. It has innumerable charming villages and hotels. In addition, restaurants and incredible views. Along the coast, however, is a special small town worth a visit. It is Bosa. This 12th century town is situated on the west coast. Specifically, north of Oristano, in a valley on the Temo. It is the only navigable river in Sardinia.
The city is overlooked by the Castello Malaspina. The castle dates to 1112. To the south of the Castle, specifically on the north bank next to the bridge, is the Bosa Cathedral. This structure is from the fifteenth century. Inside is a splendid interior of marble statues. Additionally, nineteenth century frescos. The nearby Bosa Marina Beach is regularly voted the cleanest beach in Italy.
Are you arriving via a luxury mega yacht charter vessel? If so, the Bosa Marina is just 2 kilometers from the town of Bosa. The marina accommodates yachts up to 50 meters. Most of the slips are for smaller yachts. For this reason, call in advance to secure a reservation. Especially during peak summer periods.
2. Ride the TRENINO VERDE. In the summer, the Trenino Verde tourist train runs from Palau. Further, south through the mountains. It is a beautiful route. For example, it meanders its way slowly through the hills. It is a way to see the interior of Sardinia. One of the stops is the small village of Sant’Antonio di Gallura. It is a true farming village on a hillside. Finally overlooking the Diga Liscia lake. The old center of the village is charming. It groups around the piazza and church of Sant’Antonio. The town has few visitors in the summer. However, it is a typical Gallurese working village. If you prefer to be surrounded by local residents rather than other tourists, this is the place for you.
Stop by the Capichera winery. Pick up several bottles of their famous Classico white wines. These wines feature dry, rounded and mouthfilling flavors of juicy, aromatic fruit. In addition, a long, lingering finish, rich in tangy minerals.
3. See the NURAGHI. They look like man-made beehives. The Nuraghi are stone dwellings dating back to the bronze age. They only exist on Sardinia. The exact use of these structures remains unknown. Scientists speculate they were possibly used as religious temples. On the other hand, possibly as military strongholds. There are over 6000 of these stones on the island. The most famous Nuraghe is Nuraxi su Barumini. In specific, it is designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Barumini is located at approximately 60 kilometers north of Cagliari. This is the capital of Sardinia.
4. Explore PARCO NAZIONALE dell’ ARCIPELAGO di MADDALENA. La Maddalena is a national park located in the north of Sardinia. On clear days, you can see the coastline of the French island of Corsica. Moreover, from the most northern island of La Maddalena, Isola Razzoli. Luxury sailing charter guests love this destination as most of the islands in this archipelago can only be reached by boat. Here, visitors glimpse unspoilt nature and stunning views. In addition, the kindness of friendly, local residents.
Travel tip – hire a local guide for a hiking excursion. A handful of residents trained and licensed are environmental hiking guides leading hiking tours of the islands. Scuba is another popular adventure in the archipelago and several dive operators have shops on La Maddalena including Area 11 Diver and Scuba Point.
Dazzling beaches, clear water, ancient fortress cities, and modern port towns make Sardinia a “must” stopover for any Western Mediterranean yachting vacation.
Help us round out our list from a “Top four” to a “Top five” review. In specific, of the best Sardinia has to offer. Tell us your favorite thing to do there! Contact the 1-800 YACHT CHARTERS destination team with your travel tips for sightseeing in Sardinia.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations Educational and tagged Nuraghi, stone dwellings in Sardinia, Cagliari, Trenino Verde tourist train, Capichera winery, Bosa Marina, Eastern Mediterranean yacht charter, yacht charter Italy, Sardinia, yacht charter Sardinia, Parco Nazionale dell' Arcipelago de Maddalena
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There are 2 primary highlights of cruising the Italian Riviera. They are Portofino and The Cinque Terre. Everyone knows Portofino. Cinque Terre is well-deserving of praise, as well. Yacht charter Italy as a destination is popular.
Tour the five little towns. Specifically, Riomaggiore, Manarola, and Corniglia. In addition, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Importantly, Cinque Terre means Five Lands. These narrow towns are linked by paths and old steps. The stairs clamber up the Mediterranean marquis. This is among broom bushes. In addition, plants of butterbush, rare agaves flowers, and fragrant lemons exist.
Here’s a sample itinerary. It includes two areas that clients specifically want to see. They are Forte Dei Marmi and Florence.
What awaits you? Genuine warm hospitality. As well as authentic regional cuisine awaits. The prettiest, flower-filled stretch of the Italian coast. It’s ‘Cinema Italiano.’ Especially lovely beautiful fishing villages. They resonate old world charm. Delectable Ligurian specialties are abundant. For instance, pesto, tuna and anchovies. These ignite your taste buds. It is a World Heritage site to the undeniably beautiful Portofino. The Italian Riviera is a coastline. It boasts a tantalizing selection of fish. This guarantees a foodie cruise in culinary heaven.
This is on the Italian Riviera. It is the little port town, Portofino. It is a genuine piece of earthly paradise. This peaceful haven is popular. Specifically, with the international jet set. It offers breathtaking views over the Gulf of Genova. Numerous celebrities own luxurious estates here. What to do there? Walk over the summit past the Castello. Additionally, swim in the Captain’s Cove at the foot of high cliffs. Enjoy the lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula. Shop in the lovely fashion boutiques. Portofino has a lot to offer for everyone. Without a doubt, lunch or supper in the Splendido Hotel is a must.
Consider spending a few days exploring the Cinque Terre. In specific, you find fantastic hilltop towns here. In addition, spectacularly good restaurants as well. Some of the villages provide a dramatic coast line. It is breathtaking to see when approaching by yacht tender. Others can only be accessed on land. They are all absolutely stunning.
Undoubtedly one of the must see destinations on the Italian Coast, Forte dei Marmi. It is well known for its wide sandy beaches. Especially due to Alpi Apuane as backdrop. It should be noted, it is considered the East Hampton of Italy. The city delights with nice restaurants and beautiful beach areas.
The Captain will organize your transfer to Pisa by private car from Livorno (Approximately 40 min). Once a maritime power to rival Genoa and Venice, Pisa now draws its fame from an architectural project gone terribly wrong. But the world-famous Leaning Tower is just one of many noteworthy sights in this compelling city.
The center of town is full of vibrant cafes and bars, balancing an enviable portfolio of well-maintained Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas with a lively street life dominated by locals rather than tourists.
The Captain will organize your transfer from Livorno to Florence by car (Approximately 1.5 hours).
Surprisingly small as it is, this riverside city looms large on the world’s ‘must-sees’ list. A cradle of the Renaissance and home to famous art, Florence is magnetic, romantic and busy. Its urban fabric has hardly changed since the Renaissance. One reason, the narrow streets evoke a thousand tales. Its food and wine are wonderful. The tag ‘Fiorentina’ is an international label of quality assurance.
Fashion designers parade on Via de’ Tornabuoni. Gucci was born here, as was Roberto Cavalli, who, like many a smart Florentine these days, hangs out in wine-rich hills around Florence. After a while in this absorbing city, you might want to do the same.
Compared to a pearl in a shell, the small Giglio isle lies cradled by warm blue seas. It is located specifically in the Southern corner of the Tuscan Archipelago. Just 50 km south of Elba, and 15 km from the mainland. Giglio has a mild climate and unspoiled nature. Uniquely crystal clear, emerald colored waters offer unforgettable sceneries all year round.
A thickly wooded, 23-square-mile promontory is linked to the mainland by three causeways. L’Argentario has long been a vacation spot for wealthy Romans. Its main town is Porto Santo Stefano. This is a uniquely flashy harbor for yachts. Next, the colorful Porto Ercole. Baroque painter, Caravaggio, died of malaria here in 1610. Finally, there’s also the lively fishing port of Orbetello nearby, with its blue-tinged lagoon.
Elba is a lovely island with a large choice of small ports and anchorages and an inland very much worth visiting.
Though best known for the famous prisoner who called it home for a short time, Napoleon Bonaparte. Absolutely, the scenery with its spectacular mountains and numerous beaches draw visitors here each year.
The Superyacht Experience™ includes selecting locations for your itinerary that make you happy. In addition, bring peace and wellness into your life. Subsequently creating amazing memories. This is all about YOU. You deserve it!
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Destinations News Educational and tagged Giglio, Montecristo, Argentario, Elba, Portofino, Mediterranean yacht charter, Napoleon Bonaparte, Cinque Terre, Alpi Apuane, Portovenere, Genoa, celebrities, Forte Dei Marmi, yacht charter Italy, Gulf of Genova, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, jet set destination, Florence, Venice, celebrity homes, Florenzia, Splendido Hotel
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