Looking beyond the imminent Mediterranean cruising and charter season, you may need to complete your TA and exit EU waters later this year. Consider doing this by visiting Melilla. Melilla is part of Spain, but is not in the Customs Territory of the EU (TAU) or the Territory of VAT application (TAIVA). This makes it a useful point in finalising Temporary Admission, as part of the Inward Processing Regime (RPA). Why not spare yourself the usual ‘cost of doing business’ in Algeria, with the associated inconvenience, and instead enjoy Melilla’s renowned hospitality and professionalism! And, in the event that coronavirus is still a cross-border problem to contend with, you will also avoid the need to quarantine upon your return to Spain. Oh, and as Melilla is part of the Territory of Application of Special Taxes (TAIIEE), you’ll find it very advantageous for tax-free refuelling and provisioning too! Contact us for assistance or information.
There have been many discussions in the past week about quarantine requirements for yachts arriving in Spain from the Caribbean. By the letter of the law, as issued by the central government, all seafarers are exempt, without exception. This ruling does not discriminate between private and commercial vessels, as professional qualifications are IMO-compliant for both categories. However, having approached Maritime Health Authority in Mallorca, there is no consensus about the applicability of exemption and consider that ALL arrivals must be quarantined for 14 days regardless. Importantly, this includes those that arrive here having sailed for at least 14 days non-stop, prior to arrival. However, through our working relationship with the Port Authority of Melilla, we have managed to obtain definitive quarantine exemption for our clients, issued directly by Ministerial order, leaving no room for misinterpretation. So, if your yacht is due to arrive in the coming weeks from across the Pond, the smart move is to stop first in Melilla. There, we can furnish you with a Ministerial quarantine exemption and provide you with some of the lowest-cost yacht fuel in the Med and get your summer season off to a good start. Contact us for assistance or information.
