Shipping Boats & Yachts to Vanuatu | Marine Logistics Experts

Shipping boats require specialized services such as lashing & strapping and marine surveying. A21 Logistics can outsource all services that are required. Depending on the dimensions / weight, they can be containerized either in standard containers or on a Flat Rack. They can also be shipped as Break Bulk.

“Shipping your vessel across the ocean requires marine precision. We manage the delicate specialized lashing, strapping, and marine surveying that ensures your asset is protected from port to port.”

Pros for shipping boats in Containers / Flat racks

  • There are many more options for shipping lines both direct and transship ports allowing faster transit time
  • Being containerized the goods are not exposed to the elements or in the event other Break Bulk cargo or otherwise becomes loose and damages your goods
  • Flat Racks give the option for easy transfer onto Side-Loader / Crane Truck  transport at destination.
  • Consolidating boats and cars in containers can save you money on international shipping

Pros for shipping boats and vehicles as Roll on Roll off / Break Bulk

  • Shipping on Roll on Roll off / Break Bulk can be considered a safer method of boats and vehicles international transport when shipped below deck.
  • Boat and yacht trailer axles are often removed to fit inside a container and need to reattached upon on arrival
  • Larger boats and vehicles do not fit in containers

Boats  which cannot fit into a container for shipping must be shipped as a Boat on trailer (ro/ro) or Boat on cradle (break-bulk) Service.

This service is charged per cubic metre, so reducing the overall dimensions can save you shipping costs by removing windscreens, masts, keels, t-tops, radars etc.

We recommend that 2nd hand boats & yachts are steam/pressure cleaned and are freshly anti-fouled prior to shipping to help avoid additional quarantine washing and fumigation charges.

Specialized Marine Logistics: Shipping Your Boat or Yacht to Vanuatu

Moving a vessel—be it a sailing yacht, a motorboat, or a jet ski—is a specialized operation that requires meticulous planning. It requires more than just space on a ship; it requires specialized handling and preparation that accounts for the long Pacific journey and volatile sea conditions. We manage all marine logistics requirements from source ports in Australia or New Zealand.

Ensuring Vessel Safety with Specialized Handling

Lashing, Strapping, and Surveying:

We detail the necessity of professional lashing and strapping to secure the vessel, whether inside a container or on a flat rack. We coordinate with certified marine surveying services to document the vessel’s condition before departure and ensure safety standards are met, which is often a critical requirement for specialized cargo insurance.  

Containerization vs. Break Bulk:

We discuss shipping smaller boats (motor boats, jet skis) inside standard or Open Top containers for protection, versus utilizing Break Bulk services for large yachts that require handling outside of containers. This choice depends heavily on the vessel’s dimensions and weight.  

Import Compliance for Marine Vessels

Imported vessels, regardless of size, are subject to customs and biosecurity checks upon arrival in Port Vila. We manage the accurate value declaration and customs process for the vessel itself, along with any imported marine equipment, pumps, or instruments , ensuring a smooth transition into Vanuatu waters.  

Planning to sail into Port Vila? Get a detailed quote for safe boat transport today.

Last Updated 2 weeks ago by: Ollie Wikely