Why it's complex
Moving a Vessel to Australia Requires More Than a Carrier Booking
Australia's biosecurity requirements for imported vessels are among the most rigorous in the world. Antifouling paint systems, hull treatment, engine compartment inspection, and documentation of the vessel's recent operating history are all required before clearance is granted. Failure to manage these requirements correctly means your vessel is held at the wharf — at your cost.
Italian superyachts built by Ferretti, Azimut, Riva, and Benetti regularly transit the Mediterranean to Australian buyers. These are high-value, high-consequence movements where the forwarder's role extends well beyond booking a vessel — into biosecurity pre-planning, customs valuation, and coordination with the receiving marina.
Seatram Logistics manages the full movement: Italian port of departure, vessel preparation for biosecurity compliance, carrier booking (container, RoRo, or semi-submersible where required), Australian customs clearance, and final delivery to your marina berth or storage facility.
Load ports
Mediterranean — all marinas
Delivery
All Australian marinas
Vessel types
Sail · Power · Commercial
Customs
In-house clearance
What we manage
End-to-End Marine Logistics Services
BICON Compliance
Biosecurity Pre-Planning
Australian BICON requirements for imported vessels assessed before the vessel departs Italy. Antifouling paint system review, hull treatment specifications, and documentation checklist prepared at origin.
Mode Selection
Carrier Selection & Booking
Container (on deck), RoRo, float-on/float-off (FoFo), and semi-submersible options assessed based on vessel dimensions, condition, and budget. We book the right mode for your specific vessel.
Origin Handling
Italian Port Coordination
Origin lift coordination, cradle fabrication, mast removal management, and vessel survey coordination at Italian ports. Direct relationships with Italian marina operators and hauliers.
Import Entry
Customs Clearance
Import entry lodged by our in-house licensed brokers. Luxury car tax (LCT) applicability assessed, customs valuation reviewed, and duty calculated before arrival to avoid surprises.
Hull Treatment
Antifouling Management
Coordination of approved antifouling treatment in Italy or at Australian port of entry. We manage the approved treatment provider, certification, and ABF inspection clearance.
Final Delivery
Australian Delivery
Transport from Australian port of entry to your designated marina, storage facility, or refit yard. Cradle transport, crane lift, and launch services coordinated through our local network.
Common questions
Marine Logistics Questions
What biosecurity requirements apply to importing a yacht to Australia?
Australia's biosecurity requirements for imported vessels are among the most stringent in the world. The vessel must have an approved antifouling paint system on its hull, or undergo approved treatment before or on arrival. Engine compartments, bilges, and anchor systems are inspected for pests, organisms, and contamination. Seatram Logistics pre-plans the biosecurity compliance process before the vessel departs Italy — identifying any treatment requirements and preparing documentation — to avoid the vessel being held at the wharf on arrival.
What shipping methods are available for importing a yacht?
The main options are RoRo (for vessels that can be driven or floated onto a car carrier), container (on-deck lashing for smaller vessels up to approximately 14 metres), float-on/float-off (FoFo, for larger vessels floated into a semi-submersible vessel), and semi-submersible heavy lift for the largest superyachts. The right method depends on the vessel's length, beam, draft, mast configuration, and condition. Seatram Logistics assesses each option and recommends the most appropriate mode for your specific vessel.
What customs duty and taxes apply to an imported yacht?
Imported vessels attract customs duty at 5% of the customs value under standard tariff arrangements. Luxury Car Tax does not apply to marine vessels — it is specific to road vehicles. However, GST applies at 10% of the customs value including freight and insurance. Our customs brokers calculate the complete duty and tax liability before your vessel moves, so your purchase cost is confirmed before the shipment is committed.
How long does shipping a yacht from Italy to Australia take?
Transit time depends on the shipping method. RoRo services from Mediterranean ports to Australian ports typically take 30 to 45 days. Containerised movements can be faster if direct services are available. Float-on/float-off sailings are scheduled less frequently and may have a waiting period of several weeks from the date of booking. Seatram Logistics advises on the next available sailing at each service type and coordinates the origin preparation timeline accordingly.
Ready when you are
Ready to Move Your Cargo?
Our Sydney-based team handles customs, compliance, and carrier coordination — so you are not managing your forwarder on top of managing your business. Response by the next business day, no obligation.