A Complete Guide to Buying a Bali Catamaran 46 in Spain Expert Survey, Osmosis Test, Flag Registration and Delivery to Turkey
Success Story From Spain to Turkey A Seamless Journey of Buying a Bali Catamaran 46 with Esta Yachting
In early spring 2024, Mr. Meriç and his wife Mrs. Berna from Istanbul reached out to us at Esta Yachting. Their dream? Purchasing a second-hand 2017 Bali Catamaran 46 located in the prestigious Port Tarraco Marina, Spain. Like many yacht buyers today, they were cautious and wanted every technical and legal step meticulously managed. That’s where we stepped in with our all-in-one, international yacht service package.
Step 1 A Customized Roadmap for Buying a Yacht Abroad
The first thing we provided was not just assistance but confidence. We created a custom-tailored plan for them including
Pre purchase consultancy
On sea marine survey
Out of water inspection and osmosis testing
Engine, propeller, rudder, shaft and autopilot system diagnostics
Valuation report and price analysis
Negotiation guidance
Offshore company formation
Foreign flag registration Flag Registry
Yacht insurance abroad
Export procedures and international yacht transfer to Turkey
This wasn't just a transaction. It was a complete journey and we were there for every mile
Step 2 Arrival in Spain and First Contact with the Seller
Upon arriving in Spain, we accompanied the couple to meet the seller a retired Spanish businessman and sole owner of the catamaran. The boat was in good overall shape, privately used, and never chartered. But we believe in trust but verify so a sea trial and full survey were scheduled for the next morning.
Step 3 The On-Sea Survey Real Testing, Real Assurance
At sunrise, we left the marina and performed a full marine survey. The engines had 450 hours, no oil leaks, smooth sound, clean exhaust. S Drive transmissions were in very good condition. However, we noticed the autopilot system intermittently disengaging, and the tiller and steering piston seemed stiff.
While these weren’t deal breakers, we marked them for further investigation during the dry dock phase.
Step 4 Haul-Out & Osmosis Test Peace of Mind on Land
We scheduled a dry dock haul-out the next day at the same marina. The underwater hull was washed, and we requested a 3-day drying period for accurate osmosis testing. During those three days, we toured Spain with the clients, helping them enjoy the experience while they anxiously waited for results.
On the fourth day, we returned for a land survey and conducted detailed tests
No signs of osmosis
Minor gelcoat repair on the stern non-critical
Slight looseness in the rudder post
Minor dents on the propellers
We compiled the full report and presented it to the seller, requesting these issues be resolved prior to sale. The seller agreed, and work began immediately.
Step 5 Finalizing the Deal Legal Logistical Mastery
While repairs were ongoing, we proceeded with
Offshore company formation
Foreign flag registration Belize
Marine insurance policy for international waters
Preparation of export and customs documentation
Everything was completed in under two weeks. Our clients were now the official owners of a fully documented, insured, foreign flagged yacht ready to sail.
Step 6 Setting Course for Turkey A New Chapter Begins
Once everything was in place, the family decided to sail back to Turkey themselves with our long-distance captain’s guidance. The planned route was Port Tarraco Balearic Islands Sardinia Crete Bodrum Çeşme Marina.
Their journey was safe, enjoyable, and life changing. A dream had become reality under our supervision and with full technical and legal protection.
Why Esta Yachting
Because we are more than a broker we are
Licensed marine surveyors
Flag registration experts
Experienced in international yacht transfers
Experts in offshore company setups for yacht ownership
Professionals in valuation, osmosis testing, and technical diagnostics
Known for full process management, from inspection to insurance to import
