GL: how to register a boat

[Jim Healy]

Fred's (Tug44) comments are absolutely right.  Just be aware that all of the
states on the east coast that have sales taxes are well aware of the states
that don't (Rhode Island, Delaware, and under some conditions, FL).  When
you're actively cruising, you won't have a problem, because you'll be in and
out before you trip any liabilities.  However, when you do have to settle in
(for the winter), this can catch up with you and be expensive.  The law in
Florida is unique.  IF you buy and take possession of a boat outside FL, AND
you keep the boat outside FL but within a US jurisdiction for 6 mos or more,
AND you did not intend to bring the boat to FL at the time of purchase, THEN
you can register the boat permanently in FL and sales tax is waived.  FL
registration will still get you scrutiny in neighboring states, but if you
winter in FL and cruise in the summer, as we do, this is workable.



Other states, Maryland for sure, will register your boat even if you are not
otherwise a Maryland resident.  I would expect other east coast states will
do the same thing, as many, many retirees locate second homes in the
Chesapeake and Crystal Coast area, have boats at retirement locations, and
live/vote elsewhere.  Maryland has a sales tax; 5 percent one time.  VA has
a tax that varies a lot from county to county.  Likewise NC and SC.



Peg and Jim Healy aboard Sanctuary,

currently at Punta Gorda, FL