MAR Vessel and Yacht Registration Services

Streamline your vessel registration with Fairway.

With a local office in Madeira, we ensure a seamless process from start to finish.

Portugal remains a leading choice for ship and yacht registration, which is largely due to The Madeira International Shipping Register (MAR).

MAR is the second-largest, ship and yacht register in Portugal and one of the top three EU registers in terms of the number of vessels and registered tonnage. With its strong safety standards and favourable conditions, MAR is a reliable and trusted choice for vessel registration.

Fairway’s ship and yacht registration services 

Fairway Madeira can offer yacht registration assistance and provide ongoing vessel registration support, with the assistance of our business partners in Madeira.

Legal Representation

If the yacht is owned by a non-resident entity, it is mandatory to appoint a local legal representative. Fairway can act in this capacity. 

Company Formation

We can assist in setting up a Madeira International Business Centre (MIBC) company, which can own the yacht and benefit from tax advantages. For the avoidance of doubt, Fairway Madeira will not be the registered company of the vessel/ship.

Documentation & Compliance

Fairway manage the preparation and submission of all required documentation to the Technical Commission of MAR, tailored to either temporary or permanent registration.

Our specialist team can provide guidance on technical and legal requirements, including vessel specifications, ownership structure, and compliance with MAR regulations.

Registration Process Management

We provide end-to-end support throughout the MAR registration process, ensuring smooth and efficient handling of all formalities.

We facilitate coordination with MAR authorities and other relevant bodies.

Ongoing Administrative Support

Our expert team assist with post-registration services such as:

  • Renewal of registration
  • Changes in ownership or vessel details
  • Liaison with MAR for inspections or updates

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Why Madeira?

Portugal including the autonomous region of Madeira, is known for it's political stability and robust legal framework. The Madeira maritime registry operates under Portuguese law, offering shipowners a high degree of legal certainty and protection. Madeira has the authority to shape its own economic and maritime policies while remaining fully integrated within the European Union. This unique status allows shipowners to benefit from both local regulatory flexibility and the broader oversight and advantages of the EU framework.

MAR is well renowned for how well it follows international sea rules and is whitelisted in the Paris and Med MoU, as well as being recognised by all global maritime organisations.

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Ship and yacht owners are increasingly looking for jurisdictions that offer compelling registration advantages. MAR is ranked eleventh in the world and has become a highly attractive jurisdiction for yacht registration.

Benefits of Ship and Yacht Registration in MAR

  • European Union flag benefits & credibility
  • Tax advantages
  • Temporary registration
  • Digitalisation
  • Flexible crew requirements
  • Diverse vessel eligibility
  • Flexible mortgage system

Speak to our experts today

We understand that every client is unique.

Please fill out the form below to find out how our team in Madeira can assist you or your clients needs.

Madeira

Office 302, 3rd Floor, Marina Fórum Building No. 77, Arriaga Avenue, 9000-060 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

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News

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07 November 2025

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2025Insights

Madeira: The Ideal Destination for Yacht Registration

Sara de Sa Leao, Head of Fairway Madeira discusses the numerous benefits of registering a vessel under the Madeira International Shipping Register (MAR), including a flexible legal regime, competitive operational costs, and fiscal advantages.

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29 September 2025

2025News

Fairway Group Expands International Presence with New Madeira Office

Fairway Group expands its international footprint with the launch of a new client-facing office in Madeira. The office marks a key milestone in the Group’s growth, offering enhanced services to international clients, including company formation, tax compliance, visa support, HR, legal, and maritime registrations.

Read Article

02 February 2026

2026News

Fairway Celebrates Double Win at the Citywealth IFC Awards 2026

Fairway is celebrating a double win after receiving two major accolades at the prestigious Citywealth IFC Awards 2026.

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