Yacht Law in Turkey

Yachts in Turkey are mainly regulated by the Turkish Commercial Code, the Turkish International Ship Registry Law (Law No.

4490), and related maritime rules. Registration can take place in one of three systems: the National Ship Registry (Milli Gemi Sicili — MGS), open only to Turkish citizens and Turkish companies; the Turkish International Ship Registry (TUGS), open to Turkish citizens, Turkish companies, and foreign nationals resident in Turkey, with tax exemptions and flexible crewing rules; and the Home Port Registry (Bağlama Kütüğü), a simpler system for private yachts, also available to foreign residents. Choosing the right registry is an important step in completing a yacht sale in Turkey.

Turkish citizens and companies can register under any registry. Foreign nationals resident in Turkey can register in TUGS or the Home Port Registry. Non-resident foreigners cannot directly register yachts in Turkey, but may own a yacht through a Turkish company or keep it under a foreign flag. Because of this, foreign buyers usually need legal advice on whether to register under Turkish law or maintain the yacht in a foreign registry.

The yacht purchase agreement should be drafted to meet international standards while complying with Turkish law. Typical sections include a full description of the yacht (builder, year, tonnage, registry status); the purchase price and payment schedule, often held in escrow until delivery; delivery terms, including the place of delivery such as Izmir, Bodrum, Marmaris, or Istanbul, and the yacht's condition and inspections; warranties confirming the yacht is free of mortgages, liens, or other claims; and the governing law, where Turkish law typically applies if the handover happens in Turkey. Attorney review helps make the agreement enforceable and ensures it covers both registry and customs matters.

Domestic sales of Turkish-flagged yachts may be subject to VAT at 20%. Exports of yachts to foreign buyers can be exempt from VAT where the correct customs procedures are followed. Foreign-flag yachts on which VAT has not been paid may remain in Turkey under the Temporary Admission Regime, provided the owner is not resident in Turkey. Understanding these rules in advance helps avoid unexpected costs when completing a yacht sale in Turkey.

From drafting the yacht purchase agreement to advising on the most suitable registry, a maritime lawyer helps make the purchase secure. Legal guidance also addresses VAT liabilities and confirms the yacht is correctly registered for international navigation. Whether the yacht is for personal use or the buyer is exploring the tax benefits of TUGS for commercial purposes, professional legal support can make a significant difference. Turkish maritime lawyer Baris Erkan Celebi supports yacht owners through well-organized yacht sales in Turkey — smooth delivery, proper registry, and long-term security for the investment.