Selling a yacht mooring in Barcelona

Usually, people try selling a yacht mooring at the concierge in their marina. But nowadays there are easier and faster ways to sell your mooring. Besides, if you’re trying to sell your mooring you might need some additional support and knowledge to get a good deal. Since selling a yacht mooring can be tricky, due to compliance with local and regional regulations, including the ones of the marina. If you own a yacht mooring in Barcelona and want to sell it, following the right steps and knowing your options can help to ensure a successful transaction. Here’s a brief overview to guide you through the process.

How to sell your mooring in Barcelona

If you want to sell your yacht mooring in Barcelona, knowing where to start and what is ahead of you to prepare is key to success. Here are the essential steps to help you through the process of selling your mooring and maximizing its value.

1.      Verify concession rights & marina approval

Most moorings in Barcelona are concession-based, meaning you hold the right to use them, not own them outright. Before listing, confirm your remaining concession term and any restrictions. Visit your marina (like OneOcean Port Vell or Marina Vela) for documentation and approval, as marinas often require fees and review from the buyer.

2.      Get an appraisal & set a competitive price

Work with a local broker to assess your mooring’s value. Factors like mooring size, remaining lease, location, and marina amenities (e.g., 24/7 security, and concierge services) influence pricing. Research current market trends to set a realistic and competitive price, especially for premium marinas.

3.      Work with a broker & coordinate with the marina

A local broker helps you market the mooring and navigate the sale. They can also coordinate with the marina office to ensure a smooth transfer process. Early communication with the marina is crucial to handling legalities and getting approval for the new buyer.

4.      Gather documentation

Collect all essential documents, including your concession agreement, proof of ownership, and payment records. Proper documentation builds trust and speeds up the sale.

5.      Be transparent about costs & finalize the sale

Inform buyers about ongoing fees like utilities, security, and maintenance, along with any VAT implications. Transparency helps avoid last-minute issues. Once a buyer is found, negotiate the terms and finalize the sale with the marina office to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Deciding how to sell your yacht mooring, different options

There are several options for selling a yacht mooring in Barcelona, each with its pros and cons, some require more time and knowledge than others. Understanding these options will help you choose the one that best suits your needs and personal situation. To name a few you have the transfer of concession rights, using a broken, selling through the marina, and real estate development.

Transfer of concession rights

The most common way of selling a yacht mooring is through transferring existing concession rights. This requires the marina’s approval and typically involves fees for both the buyer and the seller. Local brokers can be involved to assist with the process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

Using a broker

Involving local brokers such as Direct Berth with the sale can be highly beneficial, as they have access to international clients and experience in the Barcelona market. Brokers can also help you with the paperwork, negotiations, and marketing. Which takes most of the work off from you, while they ensure legal compliance and maximize the value of the sale.

Direct sale through the marina office

You can work directly with the marina office to list your mooring. They may have existing connections to yacht owners actively looking for berths, and their expertise can simplify the process.

Private marinas and real estate development

In some cases, marinas like Marina Vela offer moorings bundled with luxury real estate. If your mooring is part of such a development, it can provide an attractive selling point for potential buyers looking for a comprehensive waterfront property package.

Common pitfalls to look out for

Selling a yacht mooring comes with various challenges. To ensure a smooth sale process, it is essential to be aware of the common pitfalls and crucial considerations during the sale.

• Concession length and transfer conditions – Confirm the remaining concession term in your contract or with the marina, as moorings with longer concession periods are more valuable. Ensure you understand any specific rules and conditions for transferring your specific concession, as marina approval is mandatory.
• Marina requirements – Each marina has their specific requirements and regulations for approving a sale, and transfer fees often apply. Contact the marina’s local office to understand these conditions and costs before listing your mooring.
• Taxes and maintenance fees – Be aware of VAT (IVA) and other taxes that apply to your sale. Ensure all annual maintenance and utility fees are paid and up to date, as unpaid obligations can complicate the sale transaction. 
• Legal documentation – Transparency is crucial, not only for legal purposes but also for trust with potential buyers. Gather all documents related to your concession and be prepared to verify important aspects with the buyer. Buyers will conduct due diligence, and being organized beforehand will prevent unnecessary delays.
• Choosing the right broker and legal advisor – Selecting a broker with local expertise and a proven track record in selling yacht moorings in Barcelona will benefit your mooring’s sale immensely. Hiring a maritime lawyer can also be beneficial for navigating Spanish regulations, taxes, and other complexities during the transfer if not provided by the broker.
• Highlight marina amenities – Highlighting unique features like 24-hour security, yacht maintenance, and exclusive amenities will attract potential buyers. Premium services add significant value to your mooring, making your mooring stand out within the market.
• Buyer Verification and Sale Terms – Work as closely as possible with the marina to ensure potential buyers meet their specific requirements. Clarify payment terms early, and cover elements such as document agreements, deposits, timelines, and financing details.
• Restrictions and Subletting Rules – In case of subletting or using the mooring for commercial purposes confirm and communicate any rules and regulations regarding your mooring with the marina. Understanding marina-specific restrictions will ensure potential buyers have realistic expectations.
• Market Timing – Listing your mooring during the peak yachting season from spring to late summer, may help you secure a better price and quicker sale, as the demand for moorings tends to be higher during this time. Timing can make a significant difference in attracting serious buyers and negotiating favorable terms.

Looking to sell your yacht mooring in Barcelona?

Selling a yacht mooring in Barcelona can be a complex process, but with the right preparation, expert assistance, and thorough knowledge of your options, you can navigate the sale of your yacht mooring successfully. By understanding your concession rights, highlighting the unique amenities of your mooring, and working closely with local brokers and your marina office, you can maximize the value and ensure a smooth transfer to the new owner.

Usually, people try selling a yacht mooring at the concierge in their marina. But nowadays there are easier and faster ways to get rid of your old mooring or berth in Barcelona. Besides, if you’re trying to sell your mooring you might need some additional support, knowledge, or off-season solutions to get a good deal. At Direct Berth, we offer you that service. We will help you to sell your berth for a good price while also helping you make the right decision.

Let us know if you are interested in selling your own yacht berth by sending an email or giving us a call.

It’s also possible to give us a visit at our Barcelona office.