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A game-changing tax opportunity has emerged for yacht owners and prospective buyers with the recent passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The restoration of 100% bonus depreciation in 2025 offers an extraordinary financial advantage that could transform the economics of yacht ownership.

Michael Moore, a maritime attorney and co-host of The Yacht Law Podcast, breaks down this complex tax provision into practical, actionable insights. The concept is straightforward: rather than depreciating a yacht's value over its typical 10-year useful life, qualified owners can deduct the entire cost in a single tax year. For individuals with significant tax liabilities, this represents a substantial and immediate benefit.

Qualifying isn't complicated, but it does require attention to specific details. The yacht must be owned through a pass-through entity like an S-corporation, operated predominantly in US waters (including territories like Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands), and function as a legitimate charter business. While personal use should be avoided during the qualification year, professional yacht management companies can establish and operate compliant charter programs that satisfy IRS requirements.

The bareboat charter option provides a pathway to operate legally in domestic waters. Though this arrangement requires transferring operational control to the charterer, qualified captains approved by marine insurers can maintain professional standards while satisfying regulatory requirements.

With only the remainder of 2025 to capitalize on this opportunity, potential buyers might consider accelerating purchase decisions. As Moore notes, "You're getting such a gift here" – but it's essential to structure everything properly with qualified tax advisors who understand both maritime operations and tax regulations.

Whether you're considering your first yacht purchase or looking to upgrade an existing vessel, this podcast provides critical information that could save you millions in taxes while stimulating the broader maritime economy. Listen now to learn how to navigate the advantages.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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The luxury yachting world stands at the threshold of an exciting new frontier as Japan emerges as a premium cruising destination. While most yacht owners gravitate toward the Mediterranean's familiar shores, our latest conversation reveals why Japan deserves serious consideration for your next maritime adventure.

Sailing through Japanese waters offers an unexpected blend of familiar Western yachting comforts with distinctive Eastern hospitality. The country's approach to welcoming private vessels proves remarkably straightforward thanks to the Neko-san permit system, allowing indefinite stays without repeated customs clearances. Crew members receive generous 90-day visas, creating the perfect environment for extended exploration of Japan's 3,000 islands and breathtaking 18,000-mile coastline.

Japan's maritime infrastructure stands ready to accommodate the most discerning yacht owners. Well-appointed marinas staffed by attentive personnel, sophisticated mooring systems designed to withstand typhoons, and pristine waters protected by strict environmental regulations create an experience that rivals or exceeds traditional yachting destinations. The Japanese government clearly recognizes yachting's potential, evidenced by their inaugural delegation heading to the Monaco Boat Show this year.

Perhaps most compelling is what Japan represents for the future of global yachting. With McKinsey research indicating that only 4% of ultra-wealthy individuals currently participate in yachting, destinations like Japan offer the perfect combination of novelty, safety, and luxury that could expand the industry's horizons. Whether you're a seasoned yachtsman seeking fresh cruising grounds or considering your first yacht charter, Japan's welcoming waters, stunning archipelago, and sophisticated maritime culture deserve a prominent place on your nautical bucket list.

Ready to explore beyond the familiar Mediterranean and Caribbean routes? Join the pioneering yacht owners discovering Japan's maritime treasures. Follow us for more insights into emerging yachting destinations and share your own cruising experiences in previously unexplored waters.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Artificial intelligence isn't coming to the yachting industry—it's already here, transforming operations, creating opportunities, and raising critical legal questions that owners, crew, designers, and builders need to understand now.

Maritime attorney Michael Moore and journalist Diane Byrne unpack the complex realities of AI in the luxury yacht sector, revealing how the absence of comprehensive federal regulations has created a Wild West atmosphere where innovation and exploitation exist side by side. "There is no comprehensive federal law in the United States of America concerning AI," Moore explains, highlighting how state-by-state approaches are creating a regulatory patchwork that poses challenges for an inherently global industry.

The conversation delves into disturbing trends including deepfake videos showing fictional yacht collisions and sinkings—content that generates clicks and revenue while potentially damaging vessel brands and spreading misinformation. AI-related false creations extend beyond social media to serious contexts, with Moore describing how attorneys have already been reprimanded for "hallucinations," citing non-existent legal precedents generated by AI systems.

Yet amidst these concerns lie remarkable opportunities. AI promises to revolutionize yacht operations through advanced fire detection systems that identify both smoke and heat before human perception, streamlined supply chain management to address construction delays, and data analytics that enable predictive maintenance. These innovations represent the positive potential of thoughtfully implemented artificial intelligence in the yachting ecosystem.

For yacht owners concerned about privacy and information security, the discussion offers valuable insights into data protection regulations and potential vulnerabilities. As Moore notes with characteristic clarity, "If you're not paying for the product, you are the product," a reminder that personal data has become a valuable commodity requiring vigilant protection, especially in the privacy-conscious world of luxury yachting.

Ready to navigate the complex intersection of artificial intelligence and yachting? Contact Michael Moore or Diane Byrne through the information in our show notes with your questions and suggestions for future episodes exploring more of this rapidly evolving technological frontier.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Yacht deposit disputes are heating up in an industry already feeling the pressure of tariff uncertainties. Michael Moore and Diane Byrne dive into the complex world of deposit recovery, exploring why more buyers are suddenly concerned about getting their money back when yacht deals fall through.

The conversation reveals a stark contrast between two industry-standard contracts: the Mediterranean Yacht Brokers Association (MYBA) and International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA). While IYBA offers what Moore calls an "easy in, easy out" approach, allowing buyers to reclaim deposits relatively painlessly, the MYBA contract creates significant hurdles through ambiguous terminology like "operational integrity" – a phrase that has launched expensive legal battles, with no clear definition in maritime law.

Perhaps most eyebrow-raising is the standard practice of having selling brokers hold substantial deposits while maintaining a direct financial interest in the transaction's outcome. Unlike other industries that employ neutral third-party escrow agents, yacht brokers face inherent conflicts when disputes arise. As Moore warns: "You're sending a million dollars to someone that you've never met, that are in another country... and you're playing with fire if you don't really have an understanding of who's going to be holding these soft and substantial funds."

For anyone considering a yacht purchase, especially during uncertain economic times, understanding these contract nuances becomes essential protection. Whether dealing with a $200,000 boat or a $20-million superyacht, the fundamental principles remain the same: The devil truly is in the details, and those details can either safeguard or jeopardize your deposit when yacht dreams hit rough waters.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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The high-stakes drama of seized superyachts unfolds as landmark legal rulings reshape our understanding of who truly owns these floating palaces. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, vessels like the $225 million Amadea and Alpha Nero became battlegrounds where constitutional rights, maritime law, and international sanctions collide.

Judge Ho's recent 80-page ruling on Amadea delivers a masterclass in beneficial ownership principles, cutting through layers of offshore companies to determine that despite a title transfer to Edward Kudanatov, the Karamov family remained the true beneficiaries. The judge's detailed analysis of "dominion and control" establishes precedent for similar cases worldwide, explaining how courts distinguish between mere title holders and those who actually benefit from and control these assets.

Meanwhile, Alpha Nero's saga continues with yet another lawsuit filed by the daughter of the original owner, this time in US federal court after losing multiple cases in Caribbean jurisdictions. The new filing seeks financial records related to $10 million allegedly "missing" from the yacht's auction proceeds—a claim likely to face dismissal under the doctrine of comity, where courts typically defer to other jurisdictions that have already ruled on substantially similar matters.

The future of Amadea seems to hang in the balance following the disbanding of the Klepto-Capture Task Force under the new administration. With Amadea costing approximately $1 million monthly to maintain, however, pressure mounts to conduct a proper judicial sale following internationally accepted standards. Importantly, it's worth noting that a successful auction will require not just due process and proper notice, but also clear commission structures for yacht brokers who introduce potential buyers—without whom the pool of qualified purchasers for these extraordinary assets would dramatically shrink.

Want to learn more about the complex legal issues affecting yacht ownership worldwide? Subscribe to The Yacht Law Podcast for expert analysis and insights from Michael Moore and Diane Byrne.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Are you eager for extraordinary superyacht cruising experiences in Alaska? This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the essential regulations, documentation requirements, and environmental considerations that yacht owners must be aware of before navigating these stunning waters. We uncover the increasing popularity of Alaskan cruising, highlighting why this destination has become a sought-after choice for yacht enthusiasts.

Gain insight into maritime laws that differentiate Alaska from other states, affecting how yacht travel operates in this pristine region. We discuss crucial topics such as pilotage, necessary certifications, and the environmental impact regulations in place. You'll discover the significance of having proper permits and documentation while in the state, which can be the key to avoiding legal pitfalls. 

Additionally, learn about the importance of choosing a knowledgeable yacht agent. Their expertise in local laws and requirements can make your journey smoother and more rewarding. With such vital information at your fingertips, you'll be well-equipped for an unforgettable yachting experience amidst Alaska's breathtaking landscapes.

Join us, subscribe, share, and leave a review to keep our discussions going! What questions do you have about yachting in Alaska? Your insights are invaluable!

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Yacht salvage is a complex field that intertwines legal, environmental, and practical challenges. While the subject was a topic for a podcast in our first season, that episode led to more in-depth questions--as did the subsequent sinking iof the superyacht Bayesian. Therefore, in this episode, we explore notable incidents, including that of the Bayesian, and the layers of responsibility and coordination crucial for effective salvage operations with the legendary salvor Nick Sloane.

A former president of the International Salvage Union, Nick learned early lessons during his first major operation on a Spanish tanker in 1983. He gained further expertise thanks to the staggering complexities of one of the most high-profile cases in modern times, specifically the Costa Concordia salvage,  Ever wondered what it takes to tackle marine emergencies and avert disaster in trying to raise a yacht or other vessel? You're about to find out. Nick shares captivating stories and profound insights that reveal the layers of responsibility, coordination, and quick decision-making required.

This episode explores the procedural and legal intricacies that make or break a  yacht salvage operation. Dive into a riveting case where quick action saved a sunken yacht, and unravel the challenges of lifting these colossal vessels from the depths. Learn about how mitigating environmental damage became significantly more important following yet another high-profile salvage. Additionally, you'll hear straight from Nick why mastering buoyancy and preserving structural integrity, all the while monitoring weather windows, is just as crucial. 

Join us for an eye-opening discussion that underscores the essential role of skilled salvors in protecting both the environment and financial assets.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Embark on a riveting journey as Michael, a veteran maritime lawyer, sheds light on the complexities of maritime law sparked by the collision of the container ship Dali with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The first chapter of our discussion steers through the legal presumptions and navigational rules that govern the seas, revealing how these centuries-old principles still profoundly impact the resolution of maritime incidents. Michael's narrative intertwines the threads of his professional path with America's rich seafaring past, creating a tapestry that illustrates the depth and influence of admiralty law in modern navigation and litigation.

As we sail into the murky waters of maritime terminology, Michael clarifies the distinction between 'alision' and 'collision'—terms that might sound synonymous but carry significantly different legal connotations. The conversation anchors on a real-world example, dissecting the responsibilities of a vessel's captain versus those of a state-assigned pilot, and delves into the crucial protocols that must be followed when technical issues arise onboard. Drawing parallels with historic maritime disasters, we explore the enduring question of how crews communicate critical information and the legal ramifications that follow.

The final chapter of our voyage investigates the aftermath of maritime tragedies, focusing on the role of the NTSB and the interplay between public opinion and the legal system. Through the lens of Captain John Laro's story and the heart-wrenching bridge collision he was involved with, we scrutinize the legal strategies employed and the evidentiary hurdles navigated in courtrooms. Michael's insights offer a beacon of understanding for anyone intrigued by the intricacies of maritime law and the quest for justice on the open seas. Join us for a podcast episode that promises to leave you with a newfound respect for the legal guardians of our waterways.

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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Navigate the seas of high-stakes litigation with us as maritime attorney Michael Moore and journalist Diane M. Byrne dissect a  recently filed class action lawsuit that's a topic of conversation throughout the yachting industry. Discover the allegations of price-fixing among the elite brokerage firms and listing platforms. Michael's expertise illuminates the parallels with real estate commission controversies, offering a look at the legal strategies and implications for the yachting world's most prominent players.

The episode takes you through broker commissions and what the lawsuit describes as buyer-broker commissions. Uncover the misconceptions clouding yacht sales and the debate over the necessity of listing yachts on digital platforms like YATCO and Boats.com. This episode promises an in-depth analysis that challenges preconceived notions about the yacht brokerage industry and its practices, providing insight into the potential outcome of a case that could redefine the landscape of niche market litigation. 

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.

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From the humble beginnings of window cleaning to navigating the complex high seas of yacht brokerage, David Seal, the host and creator of the famous YouTube channel Yachts for Sale, plus a broker with Northrop & Johnson, joins us to share his remarkable journey. Discover the serendipitous path that led a young man from Wolverhampton, England to become a pivotal figure in the luxurious world of yachts, all beginning with a leap of love to Italy, where selling novelty items opened the door to an industry where passion reigns supreme. David's story is not just about ambition, but a vivid illustration of how drive and entrepreneurial spirit can carve out a place among the titans of yacht brokerage.

Peek behind the curtain of yacht sales with our deep dive into the ethical framework that underpins every successful deal. As we navigate through the stories and insights, you'll learn about David's creation of a masterclass that's revolutionizing the industry. It's doing so by equipping the next generation of brokers with the knowledge to conquer the waves of sales, law, and client satisfaction. David and podcast hosts Michael Moore and Diane M. Byrne dissect the importance of fostering longevity in client relationships, emphasizing that in the intricate dance of yacht brokerage, trust and integrity are your most reliable compass.

Finally, we set our sights on the horizon of yacht building and the intricate craftsmanship that goes into every vessel. Amid tales from the shipyard and the perils of social media's flashy veneer, we underscore the invaluable role of a broker's expertise in ensuring the quality their clients expect. David's masterclass becomes a beacon for those sailing into the yacht brokerage waters, teaching the importance of diligence and ethics. 

Have a yacht law question? Email it to [email protected] or [email protected] for your chance to have it answered on our podcast. All requests for confidentiality and/or anonymity are respected.

Hiring a lawyer is a big decision. Visit Moore & Company for the legal team's qualifications and experience. And, to learn the latest about superyacht launches, shipyards, designs, and destinations, visit Megayacht News.