The Yacht Law Podcast

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 US courts typically defer to foreign 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! 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 info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Set sail with us as we celebrate the first anniversary of The Yacht Law Podcast, with over 600 downloads from 44 different countries! We couldn't be prouder of our enlightening nine-episode journey, and we're thrilled to share insights that have resonated deeply with the yachting community. For this new episode, maritime attorney Michael Moore and yachting journalist Diane M. Byrne once again unravel the complexities of maritime law. The focus this time is why American yacht owners may be missing out on legal waivers to offer their foreign-flagged yachts for charter in U.S. waters. Together, we demystify yacht charter in the United States, including the confusion over the legal term bareboat chartering and what bareboat charter contracts require of charter guests. Along the way, we further untangle misconceptions that have long clouded the industry. Michael and Diane specifically chart a course through the century-old Jones Act, unveiling its critical role in protecting U.S. maritime commerce and how it impacts everything from commercial fishing to superyachts. We then cast a spotlight on the Small Vessel Waiver Program, a little-known lifeline for non-U.S. built yachts wishing to conduct yacht charter activities in U.S. waters. Listen closely as we discuss the Act's implications on shipping routes and the challenging, but achievable, process for larger vessels to obtain the waivers. In the final leg of our journey, we explore why so many American superyacht owners mistakenly believe their foreign-built yachts cannot charter stateside. Part of the problem certainly stems from brokerage listing disclaimers and the 1.5% customs duty, a critical tariff that fuels the U.S. economy. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast or a seasoned sailor, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate legal seas with confidence. Join us as we provide clarity on the charter nuances of these vessels, ensuring you're well-prepared to tackle the legal storms ahead. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Ever wondered why yacht insurance premiums have hit the roof? Does the frequency of named storms have everything to do with it, or is there more to the story? Here's a promise: By the end of this episode, you'll become well-versed in the complex world of marine insurance and the important role of an experienced insurance broker. It's a crucial education to help prevent you from making a costly mistake--even multiple costly mistakes. We dive deep into the legalities surrounding marine insurance. For instance, did you know your insurer may include a captain's warranty clause - necessitating an insurer-approved captain? How about the possible repercussions of breaching policy terms? You’ll learn about a Supreme Court showdown, too, that could forever change the marine insurance game. Could you imagine the implications of a ruling that upholds the underwriters' freedom to choose contract language from another state's law in their contracts when the yacht isn't even in that state? As the old saying goes, the devil is in the details, and that certainly holds true for insurance when it comes to yacht-transport contracts, a.k.a. contracts of carriage. Not only do we dissect landmark legislation, but we also explore the important yet often misunderstood domain of NBOCCs (non-vessel owning common carriers) and the limitations of liability. You will learn why obtaining the right insurance for yacht transport is more crucial than ever. Finally, did you know your policy may exclude yard periods, and why a shipyard's insurance certificate matters as much as a contractor's? We further discuss a unique case where a yard contract had insurance with a limitation of liability clause, but a court ruling toppled the tables in favor of a superyacht owner. This episode is a wake-up call to all yacht owners - highlighting the absolute necessity of understanding insurance cover notes and policies thoroughly. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Do you understand the vital role that classification societies have in securing safety in the construction of superyachts? If you're an owner, chances are you don't, and that's a mistake. Even with smart advisors around you, it's crucial that you educate yourself and therefore avoid making expensive mistakes by opting out of classification society recommendations. This episode of the Yacht Law Podcast unveils the integral functions of classification societies in the yachting world. Join us, as we put the spotlight on esteemed bodies including the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Registro Italiano Navale (RINA), Lloyd's Register, and Bureau Veritas. We also shed light on how a society's reputation can either bolster or tarnish its industry standing, and why the top classification societies are held in such high esteem. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we examine why superyacht owners have bypassed building to class and the repercussions of this decision. We'll probe the part surveyors play in guaranteeing owners get the vessel they paid for, too. Moreover, we delve into the chilling account of the OceanGate sinking, a submersible whose builder deliberately chose not to construct it to class standards, and how it has cast a shadow over yacht submersibles. Whether you are a yacht enthusiast or an industry insider, this episode will satisfy your curiosity and enrich your knowledge. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Are you ready to navigate the intricate waters of the yachting industry's recent merger and acquisition wave? We dissect the angles of this fascinating development, starting with the superyacht industry's consolidation and its implications. We discuss the big deals rocking the boat, like MarineMax's acquisition of IGY Marinas, Northrop & Johnson, and Frasier Yachts, as well as Safe Harbor's purchase of Savannah Yacht Center. We also unpack the exciting, yet often uneasy, process of these acquisitions, particularly when iconic companies get swallowed up. Join renowned maritime attorney Michael Moore and journalist Diane M. Byrne as they share invaluable insight into previous mergers and acquisitions in yachting--ones likely overlooked in today's climate. We also tap into the role of 'blank check' companies, discuss the potential perks of merging Fraser and Northrop & Johnson with MarineMax, and contemplate the customer's perspective and the captain's role in decision-making. This episode is a must for anyone eager to understand the ebbs and flows of the thriving yacht industry. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Have you ever wondered how to navigate the complex world of sanctions, and what it means for you as a yacht owner or yachting professional? Join us as we shed light on the implications of US, EU, and UK sanctions against Russia and Russian citizens. With Michael Moore's deep knowledge in maritime law, we discuss the importance of staying informed about sanctions lists, and how to handle situations involving sanctioned individuals or superyachts. Dive deeper into the legalities surrounding sanctions and the crucial role of understanding the Fifth Amendment and its relation to due process. We delve into the challenges faced when dealing with an ultimate beneficial owner or a yacht on a sanctions list, and how to avoid potential legal consequences. Learn from real-life examples of navigating sanctions and the importance of carefully evaluating a client's situation, such as those of Bernie Madoff and Alfa Nero. Don't miss this informative and engaging conversation that will leave you better prepared to navigate the murky waters of sanctions and their implications in your world. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Superyacht arrests—which are more accurately called maritime arrests—are under an extra-strong spotlight due to the sanctions against Russian owners purported to have close ties to the Russian government. The arrests have led to a number of people, including one particular listener, to want to better understand why arrests in general occur. In this episode of The Yacht Law Podcast, maritime attorney Michael Moore and yachting journalist Diane M. Byrne walk you through the most commonly asked questions and provide answers. Specifically, they discuss: 1. what exactly "arrest" means, and how it requires a court order (in the United States and many other nations) 2. why unpaid wages for crew is not only taken seriously by the courts, but also a leading reason why a yacht can get arrested 3. how unpaid services provided to a yacht can also lead to an arrest 4. other relatively common reasons why a maritime arrest of a yacht can occur. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the United States, the UK, and the European Union have gone after the assets of those suspected to be close to the Kremlin. Trying to sort facts from rumors when it comes to the superyacht arrests involving Russian owners, though, can be challenging. In this episode of The Yacht Law Podcast, maritime attorney Michael Moore and yachting journalists Diane Byrne address some of the most commonly asked questions, using a few cases of superyacht arrests involving Russians as examples. They explain: 1. why the motoryacht Tango was one of the most significant 2. what led up to the arrest 3. why the owner isn't under arrest, even though he's accused of circumventing U.S. finance laws--but other people associated with him are, one of whom caught the yachting industry by surprise 4. why the arrest of the Russian-owned superyacht Amadea is equally significant, yet a completely different scenario 5. perhaps most important of all, what happens to business owners who get involved in transactions with yachts and owners under sanctions. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! When the 94-foot superyacht Nakoa ran aground on reefs and rocks in Hawaii earlier this year, a tricky salvage operation ensued. The yacht was so firmly stuck that it took three attempts before she was finally freed. But, she sank within minutes of being towed clear. Ultimately, the yacht salvage wasn't successful. The situation raised a host of questions, besides what the owner of Nakoa was doing in the area, and what he should have done to prevent needing assistance in the first place. In this episode of The Yacht Law Podcast, maritime attorney Michael Moore and yachting journalist Diane M. Byrne review some of the most commonly asked questions about yacht salvage. For example, who's responsible for initiating a request for help, and who's responsible for the costs? As you'll learn, matters can get complicated, requiring arbitrators to decide who gets paid what, and whether they get paid certain fees at all. The one thing that all parties in a yacht salvage situation can agree upon, however, is that time is of the essence. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! Judicial sales of superyachts--also known as court-ordered sales of superyachts--are hot topics of conversation lately, primarily due to the government of Antigua and Barbuda deciding to seize the superyacht Alfa Nero and auction her to the highest bidder. Therein lies a significant problem: Unlike the customary practice for yacht auctions involving governments, this auction is being pursued without a court order. In this episode of The Yacht Law Podcast, maritime attorney Michael Moore and journalist Diane M. Byrne discuss what yacht buyers need to know if they're considering the judicial sale of a superyacht. For example, even though there's no formal single maritime law governing these sales, countries around the world consider the U.S. Marshal approach the gold standard. Find out what that standard involves, and why there's strong momentum among the United Nations members to establish a single unifying process for all judicial maritime sales, including those of superyachts. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.

Text us your ideas and feedback! In this inaugural episode of The Yacht Law Podcast, maritime attorney Michael Moore and journalist Diane Byrne discuss some of the most recent news from superyacht shipyards, then get into the details of what's crucial to keep in mind when building a superyacht. In fact, as you'll learn, a lot can -- and does often -- go wrong when you're signing a contract to build a superyacht for the first time. Understand what's crucial to have in your contract, including delivery dates (left out more often than you might realize). Also discover who needs to be part of the conversation in finalizing the details of the contract. Finally, and especially important if you're working with a yacht broker, know under what circumstances a broker's commission is due. Here's a hint: The mere act of bringing a buyer and seller together means they've actually earned their commission. Have a yacht law question? Email it to info@megayachtnews.com or michael@moore-and-co.com 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.