Registration of Recreational Craft in Bulgaria

Registration of recreational craft in Bulgaria is carried out by the Executive Agency “Maritime Administration”. The applicable procedure and the required documents depend on the characteristics of the vessel, its origin and the manner in which ownership was acquired.

Which vessels are subject to registration?

Under the Bulgarian rules, registration may be mandatory depending on the engine power and the length of the craft. The vessel, hull, engine and reduction-system identification numbers must be described accurately. The navigation area and the required navigation and safety equipment are also determined in accordance with the applicable maritime requirements.

Documents commonly required

• a document proving ownership, such as a notarised sale agreement and/or an invoice;
• technical and identification documents for the craft and engine;
• evidence of deletion from the foreign register when the vessel was previously registered abroad;
• a customs import declaration where the vessel was acquired from a country outside the European Union;
• other documents requested according to the vessel and the method of acquisition.

The competent maritime authority may require additional documents and payment of the applicable administrative fees. Before filing, the current requirements should be checked with the relevant Directorate of Maritime Administration.

This article provides general information and is not legal advice for a specific case.

For assistance with a maritime-law matter, you may contact attorney Mihail Tomov.