How Do I Ship a Boat from the US to Europe?

1. International Boat Shipping and Yacht Transport
2. The Cost to Ship a Boat or a Yacht Overseas
3. How to Ship a Yacht or Boat Overseas
4. Basic information
5. Departure location
6. Shipping costs and other fees
7. Major departure ports in the USA
8. Three Methods for Shipping a Boat Overseas
9. Roll on roll off shipping
10. Lift on lift off boat shipping
11. Water to water via a semi-submersible vessel
12. Wrapping Up

Are you moving to Europe? Do you want to take your vessel on a European adventure? Either way, shipping a boat across the Atlantic can be intimidating. But with some research and planning, you can do it smoothly and efficiently.

It is necessary to select the most suitable shipping method for your boat. Looking at its size, weight, and of course, destination will play a big part in determining the transport method and cost.

Furthermore, there are additional crucial measures you can take to guarantee a successful boat shipment.

This article will have the information you need about the basics of shipping a boat from the US to Europe.

International Boat Shipping and Yacht Transport

International boat shipping and yacht transport is a complex process involving making the correct booking to suit your timeline and getting the right transporter to pick up your boat.

Once the transportation arrangements are set, you must gather all necessary documentation to clear customs at the origin port and destination.

Certain rules may apply depending on where you're coming from, which can affect the rate and sailing time.

If you decide to ship your boat internationally, it's important to do research. Find a reliable company that offers an experienced crew with the expertise to run per safety protocols and regulations.

Reputable companies will provide custom international boat shipping quotes so you can get an idea of the cost and understand what services they offer. In addition, their experience gives them an edge when it comes to seeing potential obstacles ahead or any guideline changes that might arise during transit times.

Because it's a huge undertaking, collaborating with a reputable company can provide a sense of security.

The Cost to Ship a Boat or a Yacht Overseas

Shipping a boat or yacht overseas can be complicated, requiring extensive knowledge and experience to execute properly.

The cost of shipping a boat or yacht overseas is determined by many things, including location, dimensions, and how it's transported.

• Location: consider the physical location of the vessel and whether it needs to be lifted off the water or have a cradle built is essential for any successful shipment.
• Dimension: the vessel's size, weight, and support trailer or cradle will influence the final cost.
• Methods: different transport methods depend on port access. These methods commonly include roll-on roll-off, lift-on lift-off operations, or water-to-water service.
• Destination: the destination country will play a role in determining the shipment cost. Different countries have different regulations regarding entry requirements which could result in additional fees.

It is best to consult with your shipping representatives, who will create a custom quote specific to your needs, to get an accurate quote for international boat shipment or yacht transport overseas.

Working with experienced agents familiar with international shipping laws can help ensure seamless service from start to finish so you can rest assured all your international shipments are handled professionally and promptly.

How to Ship a Yacht or Boat Overseas

International boat shipping is complex. It takes time and a lot of effort to complete. Before attempting to ship your boat or yacht overseas, you can start by understanding how it works.

Basic information

To determine the necessary service, provide basic information about your vessel. Its overall dimensions, cradle, and trailer are required information.

Most origin ports in the US will have the necessary equipment and facilities for all sizes of international boats being shipped, from small to very large ones.

Departure location

Does it matter where your boat departs from? Yes, it does. It depends on the following:

• Destination country
• The service you require
• Where the boat is docked

There are different points of departure in the USA. Some ports may be geographically better to ship your boat than others. Figuring out the most efficient route can save you the cost and shipping time.

Shipping costs and other fees

Calculating the fees for international boat shipping can be tricky. Each service has different prices. Some shipping companies calculate its fee by charging per foot of the vessel and differentiating between the services. A bigger or longer boat may have surcharges.

For example:

• A standard-sized yacht costs $300 per foot for RoRo shipping
• The same size goes $1,000 for Lolo and semi-submersible shipping
• A longer yacht, like a 120-foot one, may cost more (up to $175,000)

Researching properly before booking an international shipment is the key to ascertaining that everything is accounted for and can ship securely across borders.

Major departure ports in the USA

If your seafaring voyage is beginning in America, you can choose from several major departure ports. The port in Jacksonville, Florida, on the East Coast, is a top favorite.

If you plan to head out into the Atlantic or Caribbean waters, this will provide various transportation services and supplies.

As well as its coastal advantages, Jacksonville also boasts three commercial ports:

• JAXPORT Cruise Terminal
• Talleyrand Maritime Industrial Park
• Blount Island Marine Terminal

They all provide a convenient starting point for ocean-bound travelers.

The port in Norfolk, Virginia, which stands between the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay up north, is also an ideal point of departure.

With harbor channels that can accommodate even large ships and efficient maritime shipping operations, with over 20 cruise lines using this port each year, it is well deservedly one of America's busiest departure ports.

Baltimore, Maryland, also offers similar resources to Norfolk, allowing cruises from both east coast cities to be well-planned and secured.

Three Methods for Shipping a Boat Overseas

There are three popular methods for shipping a bot overseas. They are:

• Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping
• Lift-on/lift-off (LoLo) shipping
• Semi-submersible shipping

Each comes with its benefits and drawbacks. Learn more about them below to see which one fits your needs and budget.

Roll on roll off shipping

Roll on Roll off (RoRo) is another option for transporting a boat overseas. It involves rolling the boat onto a cargo ship platform, either by trailer ramp or crane, depending on the vessel's size.

The ramps used for this method are designed to keep vessels level throughout transit, equipped with straps and padding to ensure safe transport.

While this method can offer a more economical advantage due to fewer cranes needed, there are still risks involved that require careful monitoring during transportation.

Lift on lift off boat shipping

Lift on Lift off (LoLo) is a popular method for shipping a boat overseas. This method is when the boat is lifted onto an oceangoing vessel, then loaded securely onboard with crane hoists or similar lifting equipment.

Once securely aboard, it will be transported to its destination with minimal damage because it remains on the vessel.

This method can be speedier and more reliable than others. But it usually requires bigger vessels to carry the heavier weight of boats, resulting in higher prices.

Water to water via a semi-submersible vessel

Finally, semi-Submersible vessels provide another unique way to ship a boat overseas.

It involves transferring boats onto specialized open-top platformed lift crafts that have been partially submerged in water before shipping out.

Wrapping Up

It's no small feat to ship a boat from the United States to Europe. But with the right preparation, you can pull it off.

We have outlined the steps to kickstart your preparation. If you find a reputable shipping company to assist you, your boat will cross the Atlantic in no time. Then, you can explore new waters and be on your next adventure.

A-1 Auto Transport is a leading name in the auto transport industry. We can ship your boats, yachts, and other vessels internationally with the same security as we transport your valuable automobiles.

Browse our services and get a free quote today.