Operational support of VAT export clearance, fuel bunkering and port-call logistics are key areas that benefit from the experience delivered by the team at Bachmann Yachts
For over 50 years Bachmann has been supporting clients, yachts, captains and crew with everything they need to navigate financial, regulatory and operational challenges in the superyacht industry. Our professional and experienced management is the key to stress-free, economically beneficial and tax-efficient ownership. Bachmann handles every detail from corporate ownership and liability mitigation; risk management and incident prevention, to legislative, technical and operational services, and ensure qualified and experienced crew are employed on the right terms.
CORPORATE YACHT OWNERSHIP
Bachmann Yachts understands that each owner will have an individual approach to owning and operating a yacht. The team will manage the whole life stage of the journey from acquisition, to operational and management support to resale, with expertise, professionalism and discretion. In today’s fast moving world, the protection and privacy of the yacht owner and their personal assets is of the greatest importance. Yacht owners frequently decide to incorporate a limited liability company to take legal ownership of their yacht, providing an effective way to manage its ownership and operation. In doing so, this provides protection from other business and personal affairs to which the management of the yacht may operate, including contracting crew, suppliers, insurance, berthing, refit works and other general operational and running costs.
Such companies are mainly set up either in British Offshore Territories, namely Guernsey, Jersey, the BVI, or onshore in the UK. These jurisdictions provide a well established, regulated and stable framework, in addition to operating some of the world’s leading yacht registers.
Bachmann Yachts are able to incorporate and operate yacht owning and yacht management companies in all the above mentioned jurisdictions, including the provision of directors, secretary, nominee shareholders, registered office and agent.
Our yacht owning companies may be used for yachts both in private or charter use, for owners from any part of the world wishing to sail any of the world’s oceans. The choice of jurisdiction for yacht owning and yacht management companies is influenced by many factors; Bachmann Yachts will provide guidance and support working alongside an owner’s family office or advisors.
Bachmann Yachts is authorised and regulated in all areas of yacht operation, enabling us to provide an in-house, all encompassing service to our clients, including yacht registration, crew employment and payroll, safety and security management and yacht administration.
YACHT MANAGEMENT, MINI ISM & ISM
Under the ISM code, each commercial yacht over 500GT is required to have a Safety Management System (SMS) in place. The system demonstrates compliance with regulations that control safety, environmental protection and communication with land-based support.
We offer Safety Management Systems, ranging from our Full ISM Safety System (commercial registered + 500GT) to our Mini ISM (24 m – under 500 GT).
From within our own company, we are able to offer experienced and certified DPA and CSO, together with Officers who are trained in Crisis Management and are able to offer a wealth of knowledge and advice.
In addition to flag approved Safety Management Systems, we offer ISM and ISPS internal audits for yachts and company offices. The team will provide a comprehensive independent audit reporting of any ISPS non-conformities in advance of external audits by a client or Flag Administration.
ENGLISH CHANNEL OPERATIONS, TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND FUEL SERVICES
Bachmann Group offers a comprehensive suite of port agency services, facilitating smooth berthing, pilotage, customs clearance, and immigration processing. Their expertise extends to VAT clearance and EU export formalities, streamlining compliance for vessels on new-build export completion and navigating international waters under Temporary Admission VAT Waivers.
A standout service is their fuel bunkering solutions. Working with global bunker agents and local fuel importers and distributors, Bachmann Technical Services are appointed as official on-site, port service agents and physical fuel supply managers. Leveraging the purchasing power and scale of the Bachmann global fleet of 150+ vessels, they secure the most competitive rates on high-quality marine fuel. Whether in their home ports of Guernsey, Jersey and London or through global partnerships, they ensure reliable fuel supply for visiting superyachts at the highest quality service.
Guernsey remains a prime location for fuel stops and non-VAT paid export of EU vessels, favored by leading shipyards and the majority of German and Dutch built superyachts on transit. Recognising the growing demand, Bachmann has expanded this service to include Jersey, London-Tilbury and Central-London Tower Bridge from 2025 onwards, offering even more flexibility to their clientele.
The strategic locations each offer distinct advantages. Guernsey, with its easy sea-lane access, deep water port and lowest-priced fuel, is ideal for quick stops while in transit. Jersey provides more sheltered berths with great access ashore, making it a preferred choice during unpredictable weather conditions.
London-Tilbury and Central-London Tower Bridge has prime visibility and access to the UK’s capital and offers full shelter, extensive mainland connectivity, and the capacity to accommodate the largest vessels, making it the ideal location for extended layovers and passage preparation.
PORT VISIT LOGISTICS
Bachmann Technical Services ensures that every aspect of a port visit is meticulously managed. Their port agency services cover all local authority requirements, customs and immigration procedures, and essential logistics, allowing vessels to operate efficiently with minimal downtime.
Guernsey is a particularly attractive stop for superyachts due to its strategic location at the western approach to the English Channel. The island offers VAT-free services, all-tide commercial berths for vessels of varying sizes, and world-class dining and provisioning. In addition to its logistical advantages, Guernsey boasts breathtaking coastal scenery and access to a charming archipelago of islands Herm, Sark and Alderney, providing an excellent shore experience for owners and crew alike.
CREW EMPLOYMENT & PAYROLL
Bachmann Group are the largest manager of crew in Europe, looking after over 25,000 seafarers and aircrew scattered all over the world, providing robust and cost-effective solutions. In fact, Bachmann supply Employment & Payroll services to many other leading global Yacht Management Companies in a supporting capacity.
For complete reassurance, Bachmann Group is fully licensed under Marine Labour Convention MLC with audited compliance for crewing of both private and commercial yachts, across all flag states, including Malta. As an offshore provider, Bachmann offers savings on management fees over EU and UK onshore providers.
Through the long list of beneficial services, Bachmann Group can offer under crew employment, there is the added advantage of clients being able to choose individual modules, or the complete employment and payroll service.
With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to innovation, the Bachmann Group delivers the highest level of operational and technical support for the superyacht industry.
Whether managing port visits, optimising fuel logistics, ensuring regulatory compliance or overseeing shipyard projects, their expertise ensures a seamless experience for owners and operators.
By continuously expanding their service portfolio and leveraging strategic partnerships, Bachmann remains a trusted partner in the ever-evolving world of luxury yacht management.
Contact: [email protected] brochure.bachmanngroup.com
YOUR BACHMANN YACHTING TEAM
Ben Mahy C.Eng MRINA, Director of Port and Technical Services
Ben has worked in the superyacht industry for over 25 years and has
expertise in yacht design, shipbuilding and bunker fuel supplies. He is a qualified port agent, naval architect, marine engineer, project manager and vessel operator. Ben heads up the Technical Services of Bachmann Group, giving support in: port call logistics, yacht management, ISM, mini ISM, as well as project consultancy and management for new builds or refits.
[email protected]
Gary Le Cras, Director of Corporate Yachting Services
Over the last 20 years, Gary has registered,
structured and managed superyachts, ranging from mildly modest to proudly prestigious. In doing so, he has more than earned an enviable reputation for his knowledge and experience. Gary is an associate member of the Yacht Brokers, Designers, and Surveyors Association and holds qualifications with the Royal Yachting Association, Association of Accounting Technicians and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries.
[email protected]
