Feb 07
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

EU countries cease stamping passports of non-EU yacht crew; Spain unaffected

Yacht crew were reporting from Greece during the 2021 season that immigration officials were declining to stamp their passports (out of the EU), meaning that their permitted days in the Schengen area were running down. Now, it appears that following a ruling in February 2020 — clarifying seafarer stamping regulations first passed by the EU in 2016 — that more countries are enforcing a tighter stamping protocol. The regulation in question, contained in the Schengen Borders Code 2016 (Article 11, Paragraph 3 (c), states; “No entry or exit stamp shall be affixed: to the travel documents of seamen who are present within the territory of a Member State only when their ship puts in and in the area of the port of call” Interpretation and enforcement of the above regulation is variable between countries and, even, between ports in the same country. But generally, it means that some border officials are declining to stamp crew passports, unless the boat is leaving the port. Guidelines issued to border officials in Italy, Greece, Germany, Netherlands and Portugal are complicating travel for crew flying in and joining yachts there. To our knowledge, French border police have been informed of the new protocol, though […]
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Dec 02
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Advertising to Superyacht Captains, Managers & Owners

How to stand out in a competitive marketplace Promoting a product or service in the yachting industry is hard. We know, because we do it. About us ESTELA Superyacht Agency is a port agent, based in the Balearics since 1850, with a global network of offices and partners that connects with yacht captains, owners and managers every day. Our business is supporting captains and crew with organising their guest/boss trips and managing yard periods. Our services range from port formalities, bunkering and cash-to-master, to VIP concierge services, provisioning, and itinerary planning. The problem Connecting with customers is always a challenge, particularly in yachting. Is your promotion aimed at the captain, the yacht manager, the purser, the engineer, someone else? Or, are you trying to reach yacht owners, representatives and guests? Whoever’s attention you want, your target audience is constantly on the move. Yachts rarely stay in the same place for long, personnel changes are frequent and everybody’s always on the go. The challenge is working out what they read, when and where. This makes placing your limited advertising budget very tricky. Magazines, directories, newspapers and social media all serve a purpose, but none last very long. Most magazines don’t make it on […]
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Nov 04
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

How to attract more superyachts to YOUR location (!)

. . Destination Marketing to Superyachts . . . Promoting a shipyard, marina or destination to superyachts is hard. We know, because it’s part of what we do. The problem? Superyachts usually circulate around the same places each season. Charter yachts stick to established itineraries that are popular with clients, owners tend to be stuck in their ways, and captains are reluctant to suggest new places that aren’t tried and tested. So, how to persuade them to try somewhere different? .We do it in several ways. ESTELA Yachting is a superyacht agency in Palma de Mallorca, with a global network of offices and partners that connects with yacht captains, owners and managers every day. Our business is supporting captains and crew with organising their guest/boss trips and managing yard periods. They trust us to plan their itineraries and to provide interesting ideas for places to visit and things to do along the way.  . . . About ‘The Y Yachting Itineraries’  . Our superyacht travel guide is produced annually, created by us expressly for captains, owners, guests and crew. The book is free, both in print and digital (here), and is the only guide of its kind. We liken it […]
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Oct 27
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments tags: boatshow, MonacoYachtShow, MYS2021, superyachts

Monaco Yacht Show 2021: Review

Boat shows are generally much the same, though there’s always a frisson of excitement around the Monaco Yacht Show. By far the largest European in-water show, and as much of a business networking event as a charter/sales forum, ‘everyone’ in yachting goes to Monaco. This time was different, though, following the cancellation of the 2020 show and the 30th edition deferred by twelve months. Many attendees left it to the last minute to commit to attending, in case COVID would again spike travel plans, doubtless giving the organisers a few headaches up until the show opening. There was evidence of some exhibitors not taking up their booked slots and a few regulars were missing. Understandably, there were also fewer yachts on show, though was it a success? The evidence suggests it was. The success of any exhibition, trade fair or boat show is always difficult to measure, given that they are often merely a barometer of prevailing market conditions. New build order books are full and the pre-owned market is hot, so the only people not smiling this time were brokers with no more stock to sell or charter. The biggest innovation was the ‘VIP’ pass on the opening day, […]
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Oct 26
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Spain simplifies TPA procedure

Following an update to the EU’s ‘Union Customs Code’ (UCC), Spain has reinterpreted the rulebook governing TPA (Tráfico de Perfeccionamiento Activo), or ‘Inward Processing’. The key change in Spain’s regulation for yachts is the removal of the requirement for non-EU flagged vessels to exit the EU upon completion of work carried out under TPA, in order to avoid customs duty and VAT on repairs or maintenance. In other words, it is now no longer necessary for yachts to depart Spain for Melilla, Gibraltar, or any other ex-EU port, after refit work has been completed. The TPA can now be closed by calling at any other customs port in Spain in transit, or by simply sailing twelve nautical miles offshore into international waters. The change came into effect in September, in order to make refit in Spain more attractive to foreign owners. About TPA TPA enables non-EU owned and flagged yachts to carry out repairs and maintenance while in the EU, without paying 21% VAT. Only authorised yards in Spain, France, Monaco and Italy are able to facilitate work under TPA. Work carried out must be overseen by a licensed administrator and comply with strict fiscal and customs regulations, with detailed […]
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Oct 26
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Seafarer vaccination scheme launched as Palma walk-in vaccinations cease

The walk-in COVID vaccination sessions at Sa Dureta have finished, with more than 90% of the eligible population now vaccinated with at least one shot. Crew are now no longer able to turn up without an appointment. This means that seafarers must now register in advance, with a vaccination appointment coming through around 48hrs later. Required are passport/ID details, boat contract, plus a Spanish mobile telephone number. On the plus side, the only vaccine being offered specifically for seafarers is the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) single-shot variety. Vaccination itself remains free, courtesy of Spain’s national health service, though there is an administration charge for each registration we make on your behalf. To register you, we require boat paperwork and your passport details. After your injection, we can apply for your digital vaccination passport with that all-important QR code. For more details, please contact us at palma@estelashipping.net
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Sep 13
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

ESTELA visit to Cannes Yachting Festival 2021

The 2021 edition of the Yachting Festival was an undisputed success. With many shows cancelled since last year, people’s appetite to get back to business appeared strong. Crowd numbers were on par with recent editions of the Cannes show, though the number of exhibitors was understandably down on previous years. As they had in Palma in June this year, many exhibitors held their powder dry, with some marketing budgets paused until 2022. As usual, the show consisted of three distinct areas. Vieux Port, one of the oldest harbours on the French Riviera, was the showcase of prestigious new boats, presented by many of Europe’s major shipyards. Port Canto, a short hop across the water via a courtesy tender service, was devoted to large used yachts and water toys, while across the pontoon bridge lay the sailing area, featuring sailing boats, monohulls and multihulls.  The various COVID-related health measurements barely impinged on the enjoyment to be had from viewing many world yacht premieres and the wide array of watertoys always on show here. Indeed, several attendees we spoke to suggested that Cannes benefited from a more expensive and restrictive forthcoming Monaco Yacht Show. An innovation we could have done without was […]
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Sep 03
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Meet us at the Cannes Yachting Festival!

ESTELA will be travelling to Cannes next week, for the first major boat show on the Côte d’Azur since 2019. We will be distributing the 2021 edition of ‘The Y Yachting Itineraries‘ and catching up with friends, clients and partners that we haven’t seen here in Palma. It feels like it’s been a long time, so we’re looking forward to seeing everyone! If you’re going and fancy a coffee or a glass, get in touch! If not, perhaps we’ll see you in Monaco later this month. Salut! About Cannes Yachting Festival As usual, the Vieux Port and Port Canto will host the 2021 edition of Cannes Yachting Festival. This year, professionals and enthusiasts will be able to discover nearly 600 of the latest boats from around the world. The show opens its doors on Tuesday, September 7, for six days of business and pleasure on the French Riviera. The Yachting Festival brings together more than 50,000 visitors every year and nearly 550 exhibitors, in a spacious and relaxed atmosphere. The show will feature more than 110 monohull and multihull sailing yachts, motor boats, used and new, up to 50 meters.
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Jul 08
by admin in Events, Marketing Opportunities 0 comments

The final cut is here! 🎬

The much anticipated Palma Superyacht Show 2021 was a welcome return to (almost) normal for boat shows. At ESTELA, we had our usual stand at the Show for four days, but new was our “Captains’ Dinner at the Museum” and three consecutive breakfast seminars, talking about topics ranging from chartering and VAT to Brexit effects on the yacht industry and personal finance for seafarers.To watch the event highlights and see how we mix business with pleasure, grab a coffee and watch this: https://bit.ly/PSYS2021video Huge thanks to our sponsors and partners who made this all possible:The Port Authority of MelillaSwiss Ocean Yacht ManagementBegüm YachtingMoonen YachtsCoral Marine IbizaTermopetroliAstilleros de MallorcaTax MarineNautipaintsKingsber Property & Crew SupportAlcaidesa MarinaTAM Asset ManagementAntigua Yacht Club Marina & ResortArgentario Yacht ServicesAYSSA special thanks too to the organisers of the Palma Superyacht Show, who made the event happen, in the face of significant challenges, namely Jane Thompson, Amanda Picornell and Danielle Berclouw.We hope to see you here next year, if not before. If you are interested in collaborating with our events or the 2022 edition of our annual superyacht guide, ‘The Y Yachting Itineraries’, get in touch with Francesco Gennai on +34 638 81 68 03 or email francesco.gennai@estelashipping.net
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Jun 29
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

COVID tourism & yachting rules/regs around the Med (updated 1-Jul)

The travel and yachting situation around the Mediterranean region is fluid, with countries and regions adjusting measures frequently. The guide below should be taken as information only and you are advised to consult with a local agent before planning your visit. This information is drawn from a network of agencies, as well as official sources. If you have new updates that we should include, please send us an email to palma@estelayachting.net SPAIN Travel Spain is open to flights from: EU/EEA countries, subject either to vaccination* or a negative antigen test***   Countries worldwide**, subject to complete vaccination* United Kingdom, subject to complete vaccination or PCR/TMA/LAMP/NEAR test (antigen is NOT accepted). Balearic Islands only are green-listed by the UK from 04:00 on 30-Jun (no quarantine required upon return to the UK) USA, without vaccination or COVID test Australia, China, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan and Rwanda, subject to a negative PCR test Minors travelling with vaccinated adults may also arrive in Spain, though do require a negative COVID test and must, like adults, complete a Passenger Locator Form. Children under 12 years are exempt from testing and locator form. For visitors from within the EU/EEA area, Spain […]
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Jun 16
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Ship Sanitation Certificates

As part of tightened controls during the coronavirus pandemic, the Ship Sanitation Certificate is now being demanded by maritime authorities for yachts in Spain and throughout EU waters. Until recently, the requirement for yachts to carry a Ship Sanitation Control Certificate or Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate had been widely disregarded by Spanish authorities for vessels under 500gt . Last summer, this informal threshold was lowered to 400gt, though now inspectors are clamping down on all passenger ships, regardless of size. Introduced through Article 39 of the WHO’s International Health Regulations 2005, the regulations brought in common sanitation standards to certify that a vessel is free of sources of contagion and chemical and radiological agents. Valid for a maximum of six months, the SSCC or SSCEC must be logged on the EU SHIPSAN ACT Information System for all types of ships sailing in the European Union. As licensed consignees ESTELA Shipping can obtain your SSCC/SSCEC from Spanish health authorities, upon completion of the requisite inspection and documentation. Should you be planning to navigate in international waters, please note that legionella sampling requires 14 days for results, so you should allow sufficient time before departure. The checklist of documentation includes: Previous […]
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Jun 11
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

Private COVID Vaccination in Palma

Please be aware that according to information we have received from Spanish health authorities, any clinic or clinician in Spain administering vaccines privately, is not authorised.  If you were to consider going for private vaccination, you must ask: who is administering it? is it legal? will I receive a recognised vaccination certificate? which vaccine is it? Please note that if it is ‘Sputnik V’ being offered, this is not recognised by either the EMA or the WHO, so it’s not valid for travel purposes. The Netherlands and Belgium are about to roll out vaccines to seafarers, while Spain has committed to do the same, though there is, as yet, no timeline. While ESTELA is in no position to offer medical advice, we would urge anyone considering private vaccination to consult a doctor.
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Jun 09
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

ESTELA Breakfast Seminars at the Palma Superyacht Show

Our Palma Superyacht Show Breakfast Seminars are now available to watch online. On three consecutive mornings, a panel of experts discussed wide-ranging topics, from chartering and VAT, to all things Brexit and property investing for seafarers. Day One: Chartering in Spain, VAT, Temporary Admission and TPA: https://youtu.be/x1sPqhHcBbo?t=1215 Day Two: Brexit effect on tax, licensing, certification: https://youtu.be/zGIaLrKWN4M?t=958 Day Three: Personal finance for seafarers; banking, investing, property, and tax planning: https://youtu.be/xpL7XJiwwLM?t=1278 If you have any questions, contact us or put them in the comments and we will ask the panelists to answer.
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Jun 08
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

EU COVID Passport Roll-Out Starts

The EU’s Digital Green Certificate, or ‘COVID passport’ will become available for all EU citizens and residents, as well as for specific categories of travellers from third countries, by July 1st. A number of countries, as well as some regions in Spain, have begun the roll-out, with the rest of the EU Member States expected to implement the system in the coming weeks. Intended to eliminate travel restrictions, the ‘passport’ is designed to facilitate travel throughout Europe for vaccinated persons, as well as for people recovered from COVID or tested negative. The single DGC document can be issued in both paper and digital format, comprising either proof of completed COVID vaccination, a NAAT or antigen test certificate, or recovery certificate. Eligible third-country citizens may apply for the certificate through their destination Member State participating in the scheme. Member States are obliged to cover the costs of DGCs, making them free of charge for travellers. The Balearics will make the DGC available from Thursday, 10-Jun.
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May 26
by admin in Coronavirus 0 comments

Spain opens to worldwide vaccinated visitors from 7-Jun, relaxes criteria for European travel

Restrictions eliminated for travellers vaccinated with EMA/WHO-approved vaccines Antigen tests now accepted coming from EU/EEA countries Expiry time of valid tests reduced to 48 hours before arrival Spain is now open to visitors from worldwide areas, provided they have been fully vaccinated for at least two weeks with an EMA- or WHO-approved vaccine, according to an official government bulletin ‘BOE’ released at the weekend. Minors travelling with vaccinated adults may also arrive in Spain, though do require a negative COVID test and must, like adults, complete a Passenger Locator Form. Children under 6 years are exempt from testing and locator form. Exceptions are visitors from South Africa, Brazil and India, who remain barred from entry, regardless of vaccinated status or testing. For visitors from within the EU/EEA area, Spain now accepts either a NAAT test or an antigen test, though the validity of such test results is reduced to 48 hours, down from 72 hours, from the time of issue. Visitors from this area with a valid COVID-recovered certificate are also accepted for arrival in Spain. A COVID recovery certificate is also accepted for arrivals from the EU/EEA area. Vaccination certificate Accepted vaccination certificates are issued by the authorities of […]
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May 26
by admin in Events, Marketing Opportunities, SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

ESTELA Captains’ Dinner at the Museum   Thursday, 3rd June

On the occasion of the Palma Superyacht Show, ESTELA is hosting the first “Captains’ Dinner at the Museum”. This exclusive invitation-only event is for captains and senior officers only. Invitations have gone out, but if we have missed you, we may not have up-to-date contact details for you, so please get in touch! Call us on +34 638 81 68 03 or email dinner@estelayachting.com
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May 26
by admin in Events, Marketing Opportunities, SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

ESTELA Breakfast Seminars at the Palma Superyacht Show, 2021

On the occasion of the Palma Superyacht Show, ESTELA is pleased to invite you to aseries of free breakfast seminars on Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning. Come and join us for a pre-Show breakfast and listen to panel discussions on topics that we are regularly asked about by captains and crew. Not only are these events designed as a great way to start the day and meet up with friends and colleagues, but hopefully the conversation will be informative too! These seminars are invitation-only and guests must register* via the dedicated Eventbrite page for each event. Programme Captains’ Breakfast SeminarFriday, 4th June, 09:00-10:30h Chartering in Spain, VAT, Temporary Admission and TPAMiguel Angel Serra, Partner, Albors Galiano Portales SLPAlex Chumillas Amat, Director, Tax Marine & Aviation Spain SLLuis Ayala Navarro, Director, Autoridad Portuaria de MelillaCristina Martinez, Yacht Projects SL Book your place here: http://bit.ly/estelacaptainsbreakfast1 Captains’ Breakfast SeminarSaturday 5th June, 09:00-10:30hBrexit effect on tax, licensing, certification, importation and immigration Miguel Angel Serra, Albors Galiano Portales SLPAlex Chumillas Amat, Tax Marine & Aviation Spain SLJaime Moranta, Agencia Moranta SAKristy Hollingsworth, Estela Shipping Palma SA Book your place here: http://bit.ly/estelacaptainsbreakfast2 Yacht Crew Breakfast SeminarSunday 6th June, 09:00-10:30h Personal finance for seafarers; opportunities in banking, insurance, […]
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May 13
by admin in Events, Marketing Opportunities 0 comments

ESTELA events at the Palma Superyacht Show, June 3-6

It’s three weeks to go until the Palma Superyacht Show opens its doors! The excitement here is palpable, as hotels and hospitality have reopened and the Show itself is under construction. Spain’s vaccination programme has gathered pace and life is gradually returning to normal, so we hope to see you here. Aside from our usual (or unusual) stand at the Show, we have a programme of new side events this year: Friday, 4th June, 09:00-10:30h – Captains’ Breakfast Seminar:Chartering in Spain, VAT, Temporary Admission and TPA Saturday 5th June, 09:00-10:30h – Captains’ Breakfast Seminar:Brexit effect on tax, licensing, certification, importation and immigration Sunday 6th June, 09:00-10:30h – Yacht Crew Breakfast Seminar:Personal finance for seafarers; opportunities in banking, insurance, mortgages, investing and tax planning for expats and nomads Thursday, 3rd June, 19:30hESTELA Captains’ Dinner at the Museum Our usual cocktail party on the occasion of the Show becomes a private, seated dinner for captains and clients, to be held in an exclusive private venue in Palma. If you are going to be in town and would like to receive an invitation, please drop an email to palma@superyachts.agency These events are only possible with the kind cooperation of sponsors and partners. If […]
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Apr 28
by admin in Coronavirus, Law and Regulations 0 comments

Hospitality restrictions eased in the Balearics

The Balearic Government has introduced new de-escalation measures, in effect now:● Night-time curfew now starts one hour later, at 23:00h, until 06:00h● Outdoor bar/restaurant terraces may open Mon-Thu from 20:00h until 22:30h● Mixing of households is now permitted without limitation, though overall restrictions on group/table sizes remain● Shopping centres may reopen on Sundays and bank holidays Please see below the latest situation in Spain, specifically the Balearic Islands:● No yacht restrictions, subject to arrival health declarations and PCR tests (<72 hrs)● All Spanish waters are open for cruising and recreation as normal● Hospitality is open on terraces until 17:00pm (and from 20:00-22:30h on Monday-Thursday only)● Curfew from 23:00 to 06:00h● Groups ashore may be no more than 6 anywhere, while max people per dinner/bar table is 4 persons● Limit on board is ten guests, plus crew. No limits now on household mixing.● Shops are open 7 days, with some capacity restrictions and closing at 21:00pm for non-essential items● Arrivals by air from South Africa and Brazil, including crew, must quarantine for 10 days, or release after 7 days with PCR● Non-Schengen tourism is not allowed, with some exceptions (incl Australia, NZ, China/HK, S. Korea)● We are aware that owners/guests on private flights have arrived successfully from outside […]
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Apr 28
by admin in SUPERYACHT AGENCY 0 comments

16 Reasons to cruise the Balearics this season

Being located in Palma de Mallorca, we’ll always be the first to promote the virtues of the Balearic Islands. But with many popular yacht destinations subject to restrictions and the Mediterranean season looming into view, let us make a case why the Balearics should be at the top of your list this summer… © The Aviation Centre www.theaviationcentre.com 1 Carry on cruising The islands are open to private and commercial yachts of any flag. Yachts are able to arrive into Spanish waters and can cruise as normal with up to ten guests on board. 2 Hospitality is open Yes, restrictions remain, to keep everybody safe, but restaurants, cafés, salons, spas, shops, markets and public spaces are all open to be enjoyed. 3 Mother nature Our waters and coastline have enjoyed their enforced rest over the past year. Our natural assets have been revitalised and our waters are looking clearer than ever. 4 the best of everything Whether it’s the finest ingredients you need, or specialist supplies and support, Mallorca is more than a naturally stunning destination. Our backyard has everything the chef, crew and engineer need. 5 World class medical care Never before has medical support been at the forefront […]
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Yachting Itineraries 2022/23
Yachting Itineraries 2021/22

Yachting Itineraries 2019
Yachting Itineraries 2018
Handbook 2017
Categories
ESTELA SHIPPING PALMA, S.A

Avenida Gabriel Roca, 37 local C, entrada Carrer de la Pedrera
07014 Palma de Mallorca (Spain) – P.O. box 415
Tel. +34971722532
Fax. +34971511726
Email: palma@estelashipping.net

Introducing 'The Y' 2019/20

Why fuel in Spain

When Seconds Count
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