Why new US tariffs make buying your yacht in St Martin a smart move
Recent changes in US import tariffs have added a significant 20% increase to the base price of important new yachts—particularly French-built models like Fountaine Pajot catamarans. For American buyers, this can dramatically shift the budget and overall feasibility of purchasing a new boat intended for bluewater cruising or Caribbean exploration.
But there is a solution.
Duty-free yacht purchase on Saint Martin / Sint Maarten island
Thanks to its longstanding duty-free status, the Caribbean remains an ideal location for yacht ownership—particularly the French-Dutch island of St Martin. Here, there are no import duties on yachts, and no additional sales tax to factor in.
This means that American buyers can still take delivery of their French-built catamaran without incurring the extra 20% in tariffs that now apply when importing directly into the US.
A friendly island, with all you need for your yacht as well
At Caribbean Multihulls, we've been arranging deliveries to St Martin for years. It’s not just a tax-friendly port—it’s also an exceptionally well-equipped island for yacht commissioning and handover.
With skilled technicians, well-stocked chandleries, and a strong community of sailors, it’s an ideal place to prepare your new catamaran for cruising. You also get the benefit of a thorough shakedown sail before we hand over the boat, giving you the chance to catch and resolve any teething issues under warranty.
A superb base for Caribbean sailing
For many buyers, this is also where the adventure begins—St Martin is perfectly positioned in the heart of the Leeward Islands, with easy flights in and out, and some of the best cruising grounds in the world on your doorstep.
In a world where costs and regulations are shifting rapidly, taking delivery of your yacht in the Caribbean isn’t just about avoiding unnecessary tax—it’s about starting your journey on your own terms.
If you’re a US buyer exploring your options, we’re happy to walk you through the practicalities and help you find the best setup for your plans.