Transporting a boat across international waters is no small feat. Whether you’ve purchased a new yacht overseas, are relocating or want to take your vessel abroad for an extended adventure, the logistics of getting your boat where it needs to be can feel overwhelming. Luckily, there are experienced boat transportation companies and shipping companies that ship vessels of all sizes, making the process smoother and more cost effective than you might expect.
Professional providers take care of the complexities of customs, paperwork, and logistics, so all you need to focus on is when and where you’ll be setting sail again. With the right boat transport service, moving your vessel can be a truly hassle free experience.
Can You Ship a Boat Overseas?
Yes – you absolutely can. International boat transport is carried out daily by professional boat moving companies and logistics providers. Whether you’re shipping a small runabout, a sailing yacht, or a luxury superyacht, there’s a tailored solution available.
Some routes are particularly popular, such as moving vessels from the any of the boat building companies based out of the Gold Coast in Australia to overseas destinations, or importing boats into Australia from Europe and the United States. We can even arrange door to door delivery, where your vessel is collected on a boat trailer, shipped internationally and delivered to its final destination port or marina.
How to Ship a Boat Overseas
If you’re wondering how to ship a boat overseas, here’s the step-by-step overview:
- Choose a trusted boat transport provider: Look for a reputable boat transportation company with proven experience and excellent customer service.
- Request an accurate shipping quote: Transportation costs depend on the size of your vessel, the shipping method, and the distance involved. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs.
- Prepare your boat for transport: This can include draining fluids, disconnecting batteries and shrink wrapping your vessel for protection. In some cases, equipment like radars or masts may need to be removed for shipping.
- Decide on the best shipping method: Your provider will help you choose between RoRo (roll on roll off), container shipping, flat-rack transport, or even air freight for small, high-value craft.
- Complete customs paperwork and approvals: Documentation varies by country. In Australia, for example, a quarantine inspection may be required when importing boats or yachts. You can find detailed information on requirements from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. If you book your vessel transport with Jacanna, we’ll organise all of that for you.
- Receive your vessel at its destination: Depending on the service you’ve booked, this may involve port pickup or door to door delivery on a trailer.
Methods of Boat Transport
When using shipping companies that ship boats internationally, you’ll typically have several methods available:
- Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo): Your boat is rolled directly onto a vessel or trailer system. This is a reliable and cost effective option, especially for sturdy, trailerable boats.
- Container Boat Transport: Smaller boats and tenders can fit into a standard shipping container, offering excellent protection during transit.
- Flat Rack Boat Transport: Boats and yachts too large for containers are secured on racks and shipped as open cargo.
- Lift-On/Lift-Off (LoLo): Cranes lift large or luxury vessels onto the ship, ideal for superyachts.
- Air Freight: For small, high-value boats that need to be delivered urgently, we can even offer air freight services.
Choosing the Right Boat Transport Company
Not all boat transport companies are equal. To ensure your boat arrives safely and on time, look for:
- Proven experience in international boat transport and interstate boat transport
- Transparent pricing on all transportation costs
- Strong insurance coverage for complete peace of mind
- Positive reviews on reliability and customer service
- Clear knowledge of customs, quarantine, and import regulations (especially when importing boats into Australia including from the US or Europe)
The right partner will keep you updated throughout the journey and provide the level of support that makes the process smooth and hassle free.
Tips for Successful Boat Transport
- Book early: Shipping lanes and schedules fill quickly, especially during peak boating season.
- Insure your vessel: Protect against unforeseen damage or delays to give yourself total peace of mind.
- Check regulations: Different countries require different inspections. For example, a quarantine inspection is mandatory for boats entering Australia.
- Protect your boat and belongings: You could consider shrink wrapping your vessel and removing any valuable equipment.
- Communicate clearly: Stay in touch with your boat shipping provider to track progress and avoid surprises.
How Complicated Is Boat Transport?
With the right support, boat transport doesn’t have to be complicated at all. A trusted boat transport company like Jacanna Au will handle the logistics, paperwork and safety requirements so you don’t have to. From interstate boat transport within Australia to international boat transport across continents, the process can be straightforward, reliable and hassle free.
In short: ensure your boat is in the hands of experts, and you’ll be back on the water at your new destination before you know it.
Get your free quote here.