This week, the Port of Melilla welcomed 42m Heesen, M/Y Life Saga, kicking off its charter itinerary from the Spanish exclave. As we have highlighted many times in recent years, Melilla lies not only outside Spain’s VAT territory, but is also outside the EU customs territory and excise duties area. As of this year, no VAT is payable on time spent in Spanish waters for charters originating in Melilla, meaning that charters commencing here pay only the prevailing 4% local ‘IGIC’ tax for the duration of the entire trip. Fuel rates too now benefit from lower taxation, bringing prices at Melilla’s pumps down in line with Gibraltar. To boot, Melilla is a lovely city to explore, so if you would like more information about visiting Melilla and its tax benefits for yachts, get in touch on +34 638 81 68 03 or email melilla@estelashipping.net