Frequently Asked Questions
Does Thunderbird Yacht Sales collect tax on the brokered boats it lists and sells?
Thunderbird does not collect tax on brokered boats, unless the seller has licenced or registered the boat under a company name. Boats purchased at a private sale in B.C. are taxed at the rate of 12% PST. We provide a marketing service to the vendor or seller. It is only this service that is subject to GST.
How is tax paid on the brokered boats Thunderbird Yacht Sales markets?
Upon completion of a purchase customers are provided with bills of sale and other transfer documents in order to transfer ownership. The processing of these documents by the authorities triggers a demand from the B.C. Ministry of Finance for the purchaser to remit tax on the sale. Purchasers may self-remit tax using a “Casual Remittance Return” form (FIN 405) which can be downloaded here. For more information visit the following link: BC Ministry of Finance
What about tax to out of province or USA buyers?
As Thunderbird does not collect sales tax it is up to the individual buyer to determine any tax liabilities they may have with authorities of differing jurisdictions.
Does Thunderbird Yacht Sales take trade ins?
No, as the vessels we sell are privately owned. However, our brokers will present all offers to sellers including those that may involve a seller taking a trade as part of payment.
Does Thunderbird Yacht Sales transport and deliver?
Normally we do not transport and deliver. However, we can help you coordinate a move with qualified companies specializing in transport and delivery.
How do I know there is not a lien on the vessel?
Thunderbird Yacht Sales conducts a lien search on each vessel it sells.
As a buyer should I have a boat surveyed?
Thunderbird Yacht Sales always recommends buyers have a marine survey as a subject condition on the purchase of any vessel.
Everything you need to know about licencing or registering your boat.
Licencing boats and registering boats are two different things.
A licenced boat carries a Please Craft Licence (BC, 13K, etc.). It is required on any vessel with a motor of 10hp or more. This includes personal water craft. You can, at your option, licence any vessel with an engine less than 10hp. There is no cost to transfer the licence, and it can be done through Transport Canada’s website here. Most boats purchased through Thunderbird will fall under the licence system.
A registered boat carries a certificate of registry. It is required on all commercial or government owned vessels with 10hp or more, barges, vessels with a marine mortgage to be registered with Transport Canada, and vessels that will travel outside of Canada and be recognized internationally as a registered vessel. Registering a boat costs between $150-$250 CAD and can be done through Transport Canada’s website here.
Who do I contact if I still have further questions?
If you have further questions regarding specific vessels listed on our website, please contact the listing office:
Thunderbird Yacht Sales – Sidney Sales Office
Phone: (250) 656-5832
Fax: (250) 655-1981
Thunderbird Yacht Sales – West Vancouver Sales Office
Phone: (604) 921-7457
Fax: (604) 921-7486
Thunderbird Yacht Sales – Port Moody Sales Office
Phone: (604)939-0499
Fax: (604)939-0489
If you have further questions regarding purchasing a vessel from Thunderbird Yacht Sales, please contact:
sales@thunderbirdmarine.com
For website and technical Support please contact:
support@thunderbirdmarine.com