Selecting the right structure depends on the owner’s personal circumstances, the yacht’s operational profile and the jurisdictions involved.
Single Yacht Owning Company (SPV)
The most common structure involves a single special purpose vehicle (SPV) incorporated solely to own the yacht.
The beneficial owner holds the shares in the company while the company itself is the registered owner of the vessel.
Advantages include:
- clear separation of liability
- simplified registration and financing
- straightforward administration
Holding Company Structures
Some owners prefer to hold the yacht owning company beneath a holding company, particularly where multiple assets are involved.
Fiduciary structures, such as trusts or foundations may be used for estate and succession planning purposes.
This structure can help integrate yacht ownership into broader asset planning strategies.
Charter Operating Structures
Where the yacht operates commercially, additional entities may be required to support charter activity.
These structures may involve:
- charter operating companies
- VAT registration entities
- management service arrangements
Leasing Structures
Certain jurisdictions offer leasing frameworks that may assist with VAT planning for yachts operating in European waters.
These structures require careful implementation and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Multi-Jurisdictional Structures
Because superyachts operate internationally, ownership structures sometimes involve several jurisdictions.
For example:
- a holding company in one jurisdiction
- a yacht owning SPV in another
- registration under a separate maritime flag state
The Importance of Professional Structuring
Corporate structures for superyacht ownership must align with several operational and regulatory factors including:
- VAT treatment
- flag state requirements
- charter activity
- financing arrangements
- long-term asset planning