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How Brexit will affect marina berthing
If you are a UK citizen who wishes to keep their vessel in a European Marina. How will Brexit affect marina berthing for you?
On Friday 31st January 2020, The UK left the European Union (EU). The UK is currently in a transition period during which it is ‘business as usual’.
As the UK government and the European Commission discuss a trade deal. Triangle Berth Brokers look at what effect leaving the EU may have for UK leisure boaters.
Owning or renting a berth in an EU country
Whether you currently own a lease berth in an EU country, or are considering purchasing or renting one during 2020. There will be no changes to your ability to buy or rent a marina berth in Europe.
During one conference we recently attended on Brexit. The advice given was if buying a berth or property in Europe were on your agenda, to complete the transaction during 2020 whilst it is business as usual.
Whilst no answer is yet available for what happens after December 31st 2020 we do know that other non-European nationals buy and rent berths in marinas across Europe. We are hopeful that this will pave the way for UK citizens wishing to buy or rent a marina berth in Europe from 2021.
What about the Schengen Visa?
Currently, UK citizens are free to come and go from Europe with an passport with at least 6 months remaining. Although the United Kingdom is not a member of the Schengen Area. British citizens can travel across Europe visa-free for 90 days in any 180 days. If you wish to stay longer you can apply for a Schengen Visa.
Our hope is that this arrangement will continue. Especially as there are already 4 associate members of the Schengen Area who are not members of the EU. Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Lichtenstein.
If an agreement is not put in place, from Jan 1st 2021 all UK passport holders will need to apply for a visa to be able to visit any country in the Schengen area.
In this article from February 2019, EU Ambassadors agree to grant UK citizens visa-free travel. This is based upon a reciprocal agreement, so we will have to see what happens as the talks progress.
Without being able to offer a definitive answer. It does seem as though there is a strong possibility not much will change for UK citizens who wish to own or rent a long-term marina berth in Europe. As 2020 passes we will be keeping a keen eye on the negotiations that may directly affect our UK clients.
If you are looking to rent or buy a marina berth, please keep an eye on our website or contact us for up-to-date listings.
