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ENQUIRIES
ENQUIRIES

Yacht Buying Tips In Malaysia

Do I need to be a Malaysian citizen to buy a sailboat?

No. Foreigners can legally buy and own boats in Malaysia. Many cruisers purchase and register their boats here due to the tax-free Langkawi zone and relaxed ownership laws.

Why do people buy boats in Langkawi?

  • Duty-free island: No import taxes on boats.

  • Established cruising community

  • Wide selection of second-hand boats

  • Sailing Season is always good for newbie sailors.

  • Strategic location for sailing Southeast Asia.

What documents should I ask for before buying a boat?

  • Bill of Sale (signed by both parties)

  • Builder’s Certificate or HIN (Hull Identification Number)

  • Previous Registration Documents

  • Deregistration Letter (if changing flag)

  • Inventory List (included gear & equipment)

  • Maintenance records (if available)

  • Most recent survey (if available)

Should I get a marine survey before buying?

Absolutely yes.
Hire a certified surveyor to check for:

  • Hull integrity

  • Osmosis

  • Rigging & sails

  • Engine condition

  • Electrical, plumbing & safety systems

Cost: ~RM 3,000–upwards depending on boat size and scope.

Do I need to haul the boat out for inspection?

Recommended.
Haul-out gives you access to inspect: Fees vary depending on where you haul out. Shop around.

  • Hull

  • Keel

  • Prop shaft & cutless bearing

  • Through-hull fittings

  • Haul Out Yards like Rebak Marina, Nilam Boatyard, B&V Marine in Langkawi, Pangkor Marina, offer either trailers of sealifts.

  • Thailand also offers many haul out facilities.

  • Haul out is dependent on where you view the boat you wish to purchase..

What is the process to transfer boat ownership?

  1. Agree on a price (and any conditional clauses).

  2. Sign a Sale & Purchase Agreement or simple Bill of Sale.

  3. Payment (often staged or via escrow, especially for foreign buyers).

  4. Transfer title & deregister from previous flag.

  5. Register under new flag (e.g., Langkawi International Yacht Registry LIYR, Thailand or Poland)

  6. Update insurance

  7. Apply for new MMSI/AIS registration.

Can I register the boat under the Malaysian flag?

Yes, if:

  • The boat is in Malaysia

  • Langkawi International Yacht Registry (LIYR) is an open registry allowing individuals or corporate ownership by foreigners or Malaysians, with no nationality restrictions.

  • LIYR allows registration for private recreational, bareboat charter, or commercial use, all under the same fee structure.

  • No vessel survey is usually required, making the process fast and cost efficient.

  • Click this LINK to find out more about Boat Registration in Malaysia.

Are there taxes or import duties?

  • Langkawi is a duty-free zone.

  • If the boat is kept in Langkawi, no taxes apply.

  • Import duty may apply only if you bring the boat into mainland Malaysia long-term.

Should I use a broker or buy direct?

Both are possible.

  • Broker: Helps with paperwork, escrow, surveys, and negotiation.

  • Private Sale: Cheaper but requires due diligence.

If unsure, hire a marine lawyer or trusted local agent to help.

Can I get the boat fixed or upgraded locally?

Yes — Langkawi, Pangkor, Thailand:

  • Marine electricians

  • Mechanics

  • Sailmakers

  • Stainless fabricators

  • Machinists

  • Carpernters

  • Painters

    .... and more.

Can I live aboard after buying the boat?

Yes. Many foreign boat owners live aboard full-time in Langkawi or cruise regionally (Thailand, Indonesia, etc.). Immigration usually grants 90-day tourist visas, renewable by border runs.

What’s the rough cost of buying a used sailboat in Malaysia?

  • Small coastal cruiser (30ft): RM 80k–150k

  • Bluewater cruiser (40ft): RM 200k–500k+

  • Premium or refitted boats: RM 500k–1M+

  • Anything below RM80,000 is rare but possible. We will keep you posted when we find them so SUBSCRIBE.

Prices vary based on age, condition, and brand.

Where can I find boats for sale in Malaysia?

  • Facebook Groups:

  • Websites: BoatsForSale.Asia (launching soon!)

  • YachtWorld, ApolloDuck, SailboatListings

  • Marinas & boatyards often have bulletin boards

Final Tips

  • Never skip the survey.

  • Don’t rush — good boats take time to find.

  • Get written records — verbal agreements are risky.

  • Check for hidden costs (marina, insurance, maintenance).

  • Sail the boat before committing if possible.

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