Over the course of his career, Cris Wenthur has handled transactions in excess of $200 million all the way down to $100,000 for smaller vessels. Cris has represented racing teams in five separate America’s Cups, and he frequently speaks on Maritime Law at the California Yacht Brokers Association, National Marine Lenders Association, United States Superyacht Association, and more.
Acquisitions
The most important part of an acquisition is performing comprehensive due diligence on the boat and the company that owns it.
Wenthur Law Group has a working relationship with all major shippers in the United States.
We will guide you through the entire yacht acquisition process, including:
- Regulatory compliance
- Proper flagging
- Tax minimization
- Clear purchase agreements
- Shipping contract review
- Proper ownership structure
- Domestic ownership and operational issues
- International ownership and operational issues
New Builds
When it comes to new yacht builds, it’s all about assembling the right team. Wenthur Law Group has worked on over 300 new builds and knows how to navigate the pitfalls associated with these projects.
We will assist you in every step of the way, including:
- Due diligence on finding the right boatyard, including analyzing the financial stability of the yard
- Finding the right naval architect
- Finding a capable, accomplished project manager
- Writing proper specifications for the build
- Guiding you from vision to launch
Regulatory Compliance
Whether you’re purchasing, owning or selling, you need to make sure you are compliant with state, federal and international maritime rules and regulations. Wenthur Law Group’s expertise spans states, countries and continents – no regulatory compliance situation is too complex for us. Our specialties include:
- MARPOL
- SOLAS
- US Coastwise Trade Rules
- Manning
- Financial Responsibility: COFR (Federal and California)
- US Customs: Duty and Cruising Licenses
As with any compliance scenario, it’s better to double check with an expert before than be subject to fines later.
Charter
Considering chartering your yacht? Wenthur Law Group can help you through all the logistics. Our services include:
- Bareboat/Demise charter preparation
- Captained/Crewed time trip charters and charter preparation
- Yacht service agreements
- Regulatory compliance
Crew Agreements
Our services in this practice niche include:
- Custom crew contracts
- Crew payroll coordination
- Crew releases
Have a question about on-boarding a crew? Contact us today.
Sales, Use and Property Tax Matters
Wenthur Law Group is familiar with the rules for Sales, Use and Property Tax in all 50 states in the US and many countries. Our expertise includes:
- California sales/use tax exemption planning
- Representation before tax authorities
- Administrative hearing representation
- Property tax hearings and representation
- Property tax information statements (576-D and 577)
VAT Planning
For vessels located in the EU and other VAT territories, VAT planning is all about performing due diligence at the onset. A mistake in this area can result in a 20% to 23% penalty on the purchase price of the yacht. Wenthur Law Group will assist you in seeing through the various EU VAT schemes and deciphering how that affects you as the buyer.
Partnerships/Fractional Ownership
Are you considering acquiring a yacht but not sure you want yachting as a full time activity? We can assist you in:
- Spreading an operation budget amongst one or more families
- Increasing your cruising opportunities and locations
- Preparing custom vessel partnership agreements
Mexico Permitting
Did you know that you need a valid TIP in order for your yacht to be used in Mexico? Wenthur Law Group can help you obtain a Mexico 10-Year Temporary Importation Permit and understand the complexities of chartering a yacht in Mexico.