What is Yacht Registration?

"Yacht registration" refers to the process of officially recognizing a maritime vessel, granting it legal status, and registering it under the flag of a specific country. Through yacht registration, a vessel is acknowledged by maritime authorities and obtains the right to navigate in national and international waters. It also gains legal validity in matters of tax, customs, insurance, and port procedures, clarifying both responsibilities and rights.

In Turkey, yacht registration is carried out through the Port Authorities under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. The process may vary depending on the characteristics, size, and intended use (commercial/amateur) of the vessel. Therefore, managing this process through a professional yacht agency offers great convenience.

What Does the Yacht Registration Process in Turkey Include?

• Preparation of Vessel Information: Complete submission of the vessel’s technical specifications (length, tonnage, engine power, etc.) and construction documents.
• Application for the Certificate of Registry: Mandatory especially for vessels under 18 GT. This document acts as the vessel’s primary identification.
• Seaworthiness Certificate: Verification of the vessel’s technical adequacy and suitability for navigation based on its use (commercial/private).
• Radio License and MMSI/Call Sign Allocation: Required for vessels planning international voyages.
• Flag Selection and Registration: The vessel is registered under the flag of the owner's nationality or the country where the owning company is established.
• You can read our blog article for more detailed information about the Flag Registration process. Also, our article on Company Establishment for Yachting might interest you.

"Yacht registration" is the first and most important step to ensure both legal compliance and international recognition of your vessel. Managing this process with professional assistance provides significant time and cost advantages.