I am looking for any advice or contact information for importing a small sailboat into Thailand. The boat is a Westsail 32 currently in Koh Samui, Thailand under a USA flag. I am not sure if this is a process I could complete myself but the language barrier makes it a daunting proposition. Someone with experience importing or contact info for a respected agent would be highly appreciated.

it is the same like for cars and for sure not a goodd idear, you have to pay 200% tax on the new value of the boat and then 7% VAT on the complete price. you can buy a new boat in Thailand for the money

Wrong info.. No more taxes on boat for a few years only VAT..

I imported mine from the US 2 years back exactly and a smart australian guy did all the paper work for me at reasonable price..

The boat was coming from the us.. Don t know how you can do the boat being already here

PM me if you want the phone number of that guy who surely could help you out.. but he is located in Chonburi

Have a nice week end

There is no import duty only VAT at 7% on the boat, inboard engines are classified as part of the boat. However if there is an outboard engine import duty will be charged on the engine only. Note import duty could also be charged on any trailer if imported.

thought Koh Samui was part of Thailand, learn something every day.

I am curious about the benefits of changing the flag? 

2 hours ago, damo said:

I am curious about the benefits of changing the flag? 

If you change to Thai flag, you dob't have to leave Thai waters every 3 months.

Thanks to everyone for the advice. I am continuing to look for an agent but may be forced to try and tackle the paper chase myself.

Good luck and please keep us posted on your experience, it's interesting something I have never heard of.