USA BOAT IMPORT TARIFFS: WHAT BUYERS NEED TO KNOW
USA BOAT & YACHT TARIFF FAQ
The U.S. government’s new tariff policy is reshaping the yacht market. Foreign-built boats are now subject to tariffs as high as 54%, while U.S.-built vessels remain duty-free. This guide answers the most common questions buyers and sellers have about how these tariffs affect prices, imports, and opportunities in 2025.
Q: What exactly is happening with U.S. tariffs on boats?
In April 2025, the U.S. government announced a “reciprocal tariff” framework: a base 10% tariff on most imports, with elevated rates for certain trading partners or product classes.
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European-built yachts are generally hit with a 20% tariff (plus base duty) under this scheme.
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Examples: Italy (Azimut, Ferretti, Absolute), Poland (Cobrey Yachts, Galeon), France (Prestige), U.K. (Sunseeker, Fairline).
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Taiwanese-built yachts may face around 32% tariffs.
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Chinese-built boats can incur tariffs up to ~54% under the new regime.
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The “non-U.S. content” rule also applies: only the portion of a boat’s value not attributable to U.S.-sourced components is subject to the tariff—so if 20% or more of the boat is U.S.-origin, that portion may be exempt.
Bottom line: Foreign-built yachts now can carry tariffs ranging from ~10% (in limited cases) up to 54%, depending on origin, with 20% being the common rate for EU imports.
Q: Which tiers/sizes/types of boats are most affected?
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The tariffs affect both larger yachts and smaller vessels, but the impact is more severe on higher-cost builds where a tariff percentage translates into large dollar increases.
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Many of the impacted brands appear in the premium yacht / superyacht segments—European builders like Azimut, Ferretti, Sanlorenzo, Princess, Riva, Cobrey Yachts, Hanover Yachts, etc.
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Boats built in Mexico or Canada can still qualify for tariff-free access under USMCA, if they satisfy rules-of-origin (i.e. sufficient North American content).
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In the under-50-foot (15 m) segment, U.S. builders are likely to see the biggest competitive boost, since foreign competition will be heavily tariffed.
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For the 20–40 m (65–130 ft) category, there are few U.S. built alternatives, so European or non-tariff country builders may still compete, but at a price penalty.
If you’re selling or trading in your yacht, see how our Yacht Sales Program helps maximize resale value while navigating tariff-related pricing shifts.
Q: What does this mean for buyers?
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Higher landed cost: If you order a new foreign-built yacht and have it imported after the tariff is in force, you may pay tens or even hundreds of thousands (or millions) more than before.
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Inventory advantage: Yachts already in the U.S. with “U.S. duty paid” status become especially valuable — no additional import duties apply.
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Used boats benefit: Brokerage or lightly used foreign-built yachts previously imported can be bought tariff-free (for the buyer) as long as import duties have been cleared.
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Negotiation flexibility: Dealers may absorb tariff costs or offer incentives (e.g. electronics, warranties, free delivery) to keep deals alive.
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Timing matters: With tariffs subject to change, buyers who move before higher rates take effect may secure better deals.
Q: Does this include boats already here (in the U.S.)?
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If a boat is already legally imported and duty-paid, no retroactive tariffs should apply.
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However, the resale value of “in-country” boats may increase relative to overseas units that now carry heavier import burdens.
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That said, vessels in the U.S. under temporary or cruise permit status (i.e. not fully imported) may face exposure if new tariffs apply.
Q: What about brand-new boats already shipped (arrived but not yet cleared)?
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For new builds in transit or under contract, it depends on import timing. If they are entered after the tariff effective date, they are likely subject to the new rates.
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Buyers in that position should review contract terms and negotiate with the builder or dealer. Some contracts may have force majeure clauses or tariff pass-through protections.
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It’s advisable to demand clarity on who bears the tariff burden in writing.
Q: What strategies exist to avoid or manage tariffs?
1. Buy “U.S. Duty Paid” yachts
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These are already imported and cleared through U.S. Customs, so no extra import duty applies to the buyer.
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To verify, request a copy of the U.S. Customs Entry Summary (Form 7501).
2. Foreign-flag registration/cruising permit
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By registering a yacht under a foreign flag (Cayman Islands, Marshall Islands, etc.) and entering the U.S. under a cruising permit, you can avoid import duty.
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The permit typically allows 12 months in U.S. waters; after that, the boat may depart for 15 days before reentry.
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The yacht must not carry fare-paying charter guests under this scheme.
3. Leverage U.S.-origin content
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If a yacht’s U.S.-sourced components exceed 20% of its value, the tariff only applies to non-U.S.-origin content.
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Using U.S. engines, electronics, decking, etc. can help reduce the tariff base.
4. Buy used or brokerage units
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Foreign-built used yachts already in U.S. inventory avoid newly imposed tariffs.
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Given the higher entry cost of new imports, the used market may become more attractive. rightboat.com
5. Shift purchases toward U.S.-built models
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Because U.S.-built vessels aren’t subject to import tariffs, they will likely gain in competitiveness.
Many of our international buyers use the Compass VIP Buyer Program for pre-show sourcing, off-market access, and import assistance. Our licensed yacht advisors can identify models that avoid or minimize tariff exposure.
Q: What are the benefits for U.S.-built boats and U.S. boat manufacturers?
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U.S.-built boats become more price-competitive relative to foreign imports burdened by tariffs.
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In the sub-50-foot market, U.S. shipyards may see increased demand from buyers switching away from imported models.
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U.S. manufacturers may consider reshoring production (bringing offshore manufacturing back stateside) to avoid tariff burden.
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Some tax incentives, domestic subsidies, or supply-chain localization might further strengthen U.S. builders’ positions.
Q: Which American or U.S.-friendly boat brands are relevant?
Below is a non-exhaustive list of U.S. and U.S.-friendly brands and models that may benefit or be appealing in the current tariff climate:
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Viking Yachts – large sportfish, motor yachts
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Boston Whaler
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Grady-White
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Sea Ray
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Westport Yachts
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Cruisers Yachts
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Scout Boats
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Tiara Yachts
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Regal — a U.S.-based brand known for sportboats, deck boats, etc. (highlight U.S. manufacturing)
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Solaris — though many think Solaris (an Italian builder) rather than U.S., if any U.S. or U.S.-content Solaris models exist, they could be notable (or you may refer to a U.S. brand similarly named)
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Other U.S. powerboat and yacht builders (e.g. Hatteras, etc.)
In this environment, U.S. builders with strong dealer networks, parts support, and domestic supply chains gain significant advantage over heavily tariffed foreign imports.
Q: What should a buyer ask or demand in contracts right now?
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Who bears the tariff risk if it changes before delivery?
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Confirm “duty paid” status or import history (e.g. provide CBP Form 7501).
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Insist on documentation of U.S. content for tariff calculations.
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Include flexibility clauses or exit options if tariffs escalate.
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Explore whether cost of U.S.-origin components can be credited against tariff liability.
Q: Are USA boat and yacht tariffs permanent?
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The trade environment is volatile. A 90-day pause on new tariffs was announced in April 2025, delaying full implementation for many categories.
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On July 28, 2025, the U.S. and the European Union reached a trade agreement that exempts recreational boats and marine engines from retaliatory tariffs under certain terms, which may offer relief to U.S. builders and importers.
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But because the base reciprocal tariff framework remains, foreign yachts may still face tariffs unless further exemptions or renegotiations occur.
Q: In summary: What should prospective buyers do now?
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Prioritize boats already in the U.S. cleared for duty (“duty paid”)
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Consider purchasing from U.S.-built manufacturers
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Use foreign-flag registration (if permissible) for foreign-built vessels
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Negotiate clearly in contracts who absorbs tariff risk
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Monitor trade policy developments closely
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Work with brokers, import specialists, and customs attorneys to validate documentation
The yacht market is entering a period of realignment. Foreign-built boats will likely cost more to bring in, demand for U.S.-built vessels may surge, and used—or already cleared—inventory will become increasingly scarce. Smart buyers will act decisively, document carefully, and lean into values rather than just sticker
Looking to import or buy a yacht affected by tariffs?
Connect with our licensed advisors through the Compass VIP Buyer Experience
Additional Questions, please visit our FAQ page or contact us directly
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Quick Guide to USA Yacht and Boat Tariffs
WHAT IS A USA YACHT TARIFF?
A U.S. tariff is a government-imposed tax or duty on goods imported into the United States from other countries.
In simpler terms, it’s a fee charged by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when a product — such as a yacht, car, or electronics — enters the country from abroad. The purpose of a tariff is to make imported goods more expensive, helping to protect U.S. manufacturers by encouraging consumers to buy American-made products.
Tariffs are usually expressed as a percentage of the item’s declared value (for example, a 20% tariff on a $500,000 yacht equals $100,000 in additional import cost). These fees are paid at the time of customs clearance by the importer or dealer and are separate from shipping, registration, or state taxes.
Considering purchasing a yacht from overseas? Learn how our Compass VIP Buyer Experience protects buyers importing yachts internationally and ensures compliance with U.S. tariff and customs requirements.
In the boating world, U.S. tariffs can significantly influence yacht pricing, especially for foreign-built boats from Europe, Taiwan, or China, while U.S.-built boats remain tariff-free — creating a major price advantage for domestic manufacturers.
