Boat & Yacht Shipping Services

We know when it comes to shipping your boat, you want the safest transport at the best rate. With Reef Shipping, you can find just that ! We’ll help you figure out how to transport a boat, help you find reliable transporters at the best rates, and give you tips on preparing your boat for transport. If the waters get choppy, we’re here to navigate you back on course with your boat transport.

There are a couple of things you can do to prepare your boat for shipping and ensure a successful boat transport. This includes securing any loose items and taking precautions to avoid travel damage. Before dismantling anything on your boat, take photos so that you have something to reference when reassembling the boat after the transport. Then, remove all personal items from your boat. Clean your boat’s exterior and inspect for any damages. It is also advised that you have it inspected by a licensed marine surveyor.

1. Pick a loading spot that has a 14′ clearance.
2. Secure all loose gear above and below deck.
3. Close, secure, and seal any hatches.
4. Latch and tape cabin windows from the outside.
5. Drain fuel and water tanks.
6. Remove any drain plugs from the hull.
7. Disconnect batteries, and secure the cables away from it.
8. Measure your boat to ensure it’s within the legal loaded height.

Domestic boat shipping is the act of transporting a boat within the same nation. In regard to the UAE, this can be city to city or state to state transportation. Furthermore, when transporting a boat domestically, the most likely method will be through inland transportation. Depending on which state your shipment is coming from, there is a range of domestic boat shipping options available.

Below are several factors to keep in mind when deciding to ship your boat domestically:

• Type of carrier needed for pickup and delivery.
• The most effective route.
• Required permits and insurance depending on state.
• Equipment needed during pickup and delivery.
• Weather during transportation

When planning to ship your boat overseas, there are a couple different options to explore:

• Roll-on/Roll-off: Also called “RO/RO”, your boat stays on a trailer (either your own or the carrier’s) for the entire trip. This is the most common option in international boat shipping. To reduce the overall height and volume of your boat remember to remove or lower booms, antennas, and radar towers. This will greatly reduce costs as the shipping companies will usually measure the overall height including the trailer.
• Enclosed Container: Most large shipping vessels carry these containers. You may want to choose this option if your boat fits within the standard dimensions (40’ long, 7’10” high, 7’8” wide). Containerized services are usually much less expensive than RO/RO, but the height requirement includes any trailer height as well. Make sure to ask carriers about different containerized options available.
• Flat Rack: Typically used for oversized boats. A boat is shipped in its own custom cradle, strapped into the flat rack, and secured to the vessel. It is highly recommended that items such as arches or the bridge be removed and safely secured. By removing bulking items you can save hundreds of dollars on your freight.
• Submersion: Your boat is loaded and unloaded directly from the water.

Whenever shipping anything overseas, make sure to prepare any legal and customs documents ahead of time. A good place to start would be with the foreign embassies or consulates in the country to which you are transporting your boat for more information about proper documentation. By investigating and following the correct registration procedures you will save yourself from undue stress, wasted time, and any potential hazards.

Winterizing your boat before shipping is highly recommended. Failure to do so can result in ruined engines and interior damage. Shrinkwrapping is an option that is highly valued for keeping your boat clean and safe and can also provide a level of deterrence and safety while your boat is in transit. It is also a good idea to ship your valuable electronic components separately so they do not get lost during shipping.

As always, make sure you are comfortable with your shipper. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about transporting your boat or asking for advice on how to best ship your boat internationally. Most carriers have decades of experience and can guide you to the cheapest, safest way to ship your boat overseas.