The world of yachting is evolving, and one of the most significant changes in recent years has been the ability for American owners to register their yachts in the United States, thanks to new legislation. This change has opened up numerous opportunities for yacht owners, making American-flagged yachts a popular choice. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of owning an American-flagged yacht and showcase some of the best options available for purchase.
Since 2018, when President Trump signed an amendment reversing a 1920 law, yachts over 300 gross tons (GT) have been able to register in the United States. This has led to a notable increase in US-flagged superyachts on the water. Here are some key benefits of flying the US flag on your yacht:
The amendment that allowed yachts over 300 GT to register in the US was a significant achievement for the yachting community. It modernized outdated laws and aligned the US with current maritime standards. The bipartisan support in Congress and the efforts of the US Superyacht Association (USSA) were crucial in making this change a reality.
“This has been a significant issue that the USSA has spent nearly a decade working to correct,” said Kate Pearson, USSA chair and vice president of business development at Safe Harbor Marinas. “We are thrilled to have been an integral part of helping to finally make it a reality.”
The ability to register large recreational vessels in the US is expected to have a substantial economic impact. According to Kitty McGowan, president of the USSA, the new legislation will create more high-profile opportunities for American crew, keep yachts in US waters longer, and generate more business for repair and refit yards.
Prominent figures in the yachting industry have expressed their support for the new legislation. Tilman J. Fertitta, a passionate yacht owner and TV personality, emphasized the importance of this change for American yacht owners.
“For at least a half-century, ridiculous regulations prohibited American citizens from displaying their patriotism by flying an American flag on their yacht,” Fertitta remarked. “With the new legislation, that ends. American yacht owners can now proudly proclaim their citizenship on their yachts.”
If you’re considering the purchase of a yacht, exploring American-flagged options can provide numerous benefits. From financial incentives to the pride of flying the US flag, these yachts offer a unique combination of advantages.
Whether you’re looking for a superyacht over 300 GT or a luxurious private vessel, the market for American-flagged yachts is growing. Contact us today to discover the best options available and take the first step towards owning a piece of maritime history.
Looking to discover yachting on a shorter term? Try a yacht charter on one of our US-flagged charter yachts.
*At Worth Avenue Yachts, our team is highly experienced in navigating the complexities of yacht sales involving US and international flags, as well as various unique situations that may arise. While we provide expert guidance, we always recommend consulting with a reputable maritime attorney for thorough advice on taxation and flag state regulations. We collaborate closely with trusted maritime legal professionals and stand ready to assist through any challenging selling scenario. Please note that this information serves as general guidance, and specific requirements may vary for each yacht.
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