Cabo boat buyer FAQ

It depends on the price of the boat. For a permanent import, the main published charges are calculated on the customs value (the price plus freight and insurance to Mexico): 16% IVA (Mexican VAT); a customs processing fee (DTA) of 0.8% of the customs value, which generally does not apply to U.S.- or Canada-built boats imported with a valid USMCA certificate of origin; and import duty, which is generally 0% for boats that qualify under USMCA. A licensed customs broker (agente aduanal) also charges a service fee, commonly quoted at about 0.35%–0.65% of the value with a minimum. Example: a U.S.-built boat with a $100,000 customs value that qualifies under USMCA pays about $16,000 in IVA plus the broker fee. These are published 2026 figures; rates change, so ask for an itemized quote for your specific boat.

No. A TIP is a temporary permit for foreign-owned recreational boats over 4.5 m; Banjercito charges US$45 + IVA online or US$51 + IVA in person (official SAT figures), and it pays no import taxes. Permanent importation is a separate process with the taxes described above. Do not assume a boat on a TIP can be sold to you in Mexico — confirm its import status in writing before paying a deposit.

Not necessarily. Separate the advertised price from the delivered cost: freight, commissioning, taxes, registration, survey, insurance and storage can be extra. For new boats, ask whether the price is factory list, a starting price or a configured delivered package.

Yes. We assist buyers with importation and registration paperwork and work with the relevant professionals. Tell us about the boat you are considering and we will explain the steps that apply.

Registration, proof of ownership, applicable import documents, hull and engine identification numbers, service history and confirmation that there are no liens. Have a professional confirm the seller's identity and authority to sell.

It depends on the boat's registration and import status and on the buyer. Agree in writing how the transfer will be completed, who handles it and what documents you receive at handover.

Many of our buyers come from the United States and Canada. Requirements depend on the vessel and the buyer, so confirm your intended use and registration with a customs professional before committing.

The main options are Marina Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo and Marina de La Paz, plus dry storage. Request availability and a written quote for your boat's length and beam before buying — buying a boat does not guarantee a slip.

Yes. We offer dry dock and storage for long-term care, as well as maintenance and repairs, specializing in Boston Whaler and Sailfish.

Published 2026 estimates for Marina Cabo San Lucas are about US$2.50–$4.50 per foot per day for short stays, about $35–$55 per foot per month for monthly stays, and about $25–$40 per foot per month on an annual contract. Marina Puerto Los Cabos in San José del Cabo is reported at about $23–$32 per foot per month. Marinas in La Paz are generally less expensive. Electricity, water and taxes can be extra. These are third-party estimates, not official marina rates, so get a current written quote for your boat's length.