The ‘Ins and Outs’ of VAT in the Yachting Sector

The yachting industry continues to attract international activity, with yachts frequently operated and used across multiple jurisdictions. This cross-border nature, combined with varying patterns of private and commercial use, results in a VAT environment that is highly fact-driven and sensitive to changes in operation and structure. Over the years, Malta has established itself as a key jurisdiction offering a recognised VAT framework for yacht ownership and operation within the EU.

This session aims to equip participants with practical knowledge and sector-specific insight into the VAT considerations that commonly arise in yacht transactions and operations, including sale and purchase, importation, leasing, chartering and other forms of use. The focus is on highlighting the key considerations and risk areas to look out for in the case of acquisitions, importations, leasing, chartering and other forms of use, to ensure correct VAT treatment and ongoing compliance.

Topics on the Agenda:

• Why Malta: a high-level overview of the VAT framework and possible solutions.
• VAT considerations applicable to yachting transactions including, acquisition, importation, sale, leasing, and private use.
• Common risk areas and practical considerations, illustrated through practical scenarios.

Speakers Bio:

Christabel Gatt, is the Chief Operating Officer and one of the Directors at Zampa Partners. She is an ACCA Qualified Accountant who has been working at the firm and specialising in VAT for over ten years.

She is also among the first three professionals in Malta to obtain the EU VAT Expert Degree, a degree awarded by VAT Forum, a partnership of international VAT experts registered in Belgium. Prior to her appointment as COO in January 2025, Christabel led the firm’s VAT division and was a key member of the management team, with particular focus on quality at large. She continues to act as COO while leading the Yachting division and expanding her VAT expertise across both the yachting and aviation sectors.