1. Why the British Flag?
Recently, American-flagged pleasure crafts have been transitioning to the British flag due to Delaware's decision to cease renewing registry licenses for vessels operating in foreign waters for extended periods. The requirement to frequently enter Delaware waters has posed a significant challenge for Delaware-registered vessels.
Why not flags from other countries, such as Poland? The fact that the United Kingdom is no longer a member of the European Union eliminates the risk of VAT inquiries by port authorities when a British-flagged vessel enters EU countries. This advantage has made the British flag an attractive option.
2. What is a "Tonnage Certificate," and What is Its Purpose?
A tonnage certificate calculates a vessel's volume in tonnage, based on measurement criteria determined by the MCA (UK Marine Coastguard Agency) and the IMO (International Maritime Organization). This certificate serves as the basis for processes like vessel registration, taxes, and port fees.
The certificate also includes the following information:
Vessel name
Port of registry
Model and year
Type
Engine details
Hull identification number
Surveyors verify this information physically to confirm the vessel's existence, reflecting the seriousness and reliability standards of the British flag.
3. Who Can Issue a Tonnage Certificate?
The IIMS (International Institute of Marine Surveying) is authorized by the MCA as both a Certification Authority and a Tonnage Authority for vessels under 24 meters.
IIMS-approved Tonnage Surveyors are authorized to conduct tonnage measurements for the United Kingdom and Red Ensign Group flag states.
Engin Mardin is a surveyor authorized to carry out tonnage measurements.Visit Profile
4. For Which Countries Is It Valid?
A tonnage certificate is required for vessels flying the British Flag or the flags of the Red
Ensign Group.
The Red Ensign Group includes:
Jersey
Guernsey
Isle of Man
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Cayman Islands
(*) Red Ensign Group Flags: This term refers to flags registered with the British Maritime Registry and associated with the United Kingdom. The Red Ensign Group encompasses flags governed by maritime authorities of the UK and its overseas territories.
5. How Is Tonnage Measurement Conducted, and How Long Does It Take?
Preparation:
Before the measurement day, digital copies of the vessel's registry, construction certificate, and engine plate photos are sent to us. Necessary preparations are made, and a measurement appointment is scheduled.
Measurement Process:
If the vessel is on land, the measurement is conducted at its location. If it is in the water, it is measured while berthed at a dock.
The measurement process takes approximately 1–2 hours.
Results:
The application is submitted to the MCA on the same day. Depending on the MCA, the approved digital certificate is typically delivered via email within 2–3 days.
6. Tonnage Certificate Fees
Monohull Vessel: £450 + out-of-town travel expenses + VAT
Catamaran: £675 + out-of-town travel expenses + VAT
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