The Balearic Islands are among the most attractive charter destinations in the Mediterranean – demand regularly exceeds supply. With Royal Decree 186/2023, the Spanish government has modernized the rules for yacht charters and created new, interesting opportunities for owners. But what options are actually available to you in 2026? An overview.
Option 1: The New Temporary Change of Use (Lista 7ª → CT)
Since 2024, private pleasure boats registered in Lista 7ª (private use) may be commercially chartered for a maximum of three months per year. This regulation was specifically designed for owners who do not wish to operate their boat commercially year-round but still want to benefit from the high demand.
What you need (summary):
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration | The boat must be officially registered (not just listed) |
| Management Contract | You must sign a contract with an authorized nautical company – direct rental by the owner is not permitted |
| ITB Inspection | A special technical inspection is required |
| Commercial Insurance | Proof of commercial liability and accident insurance |
| Marking | The hull must be permanently marked with “CT” (Comercial Temporal) |
| Forfeiture of Use | During the three months (which must be consecutive), you may not use your boat yourself |
Important: Since August 2025, not a single authorization for this temporary change of use has been granted in the Balearics – only two applications were submitted, both of which were rejected. The reason: the bar is set high, and many owners are deterred by the effort involved. This is exactly where we come in – Marine Project handles the entire procurement of all required documents and coordinates with the authorities on your behalf.
Option 2: The Full Commercial Charter License (Lista 6ª)
For owners who wish to operate their boat year-round commercially, Lista 6ª (commercial use) remains the first choice. This option is more complex but also offers the greatest economic potential.
The procedure – a two-stage system:
- Express Authorisation (Initial Authorization): Any vessel applying for a charter license in Spain for the first time must undergo this complex one-time procedure. All technical and safety certifications are verified during this process.
- Simplified Clearance: After successful initial registration, your vessel can benefit from the significantly simplified procedure for subsequent applications – a captain’s sworn affidavit (Affidavit of Responsibility) is then sufficient.
The Special Situation in the Balearics
The Balearic government has made it clear that only vessels in Lista 6ª are approved for commercial charter activities – the temporary change of use for Lista 7ª boats is not recognized in the islands.
At the same time, the central government is working on an additional decree to create a specific exception for the Balearics – particularly in areas with nautical overcrowding or environmental risks. The socialist faction assures that this regulation will come into force before the next tourism season.
What You Absolutely Must Keep in Mind
- As soon as you accept payments for charters, your boat legally becomes a commercial vessel – with strict requirements for certificates, crew, insurance, contracts, and taxes.
- Any material change to the vessel, its operation, or its insurance may lead to the withdrawal of the authorization.
- Proper application of RD 186/2023 is not an option but the foundation of legal and economically viable operation.
- From October 1, 2026, a valid boating license is mandatory for chartering motorboats – the previous exemption for small boats will then expire.
Your Advantage: Marine Project Handles the Complete Documentation
Procuring all required documents and coordinating with the Spanish authorities is complex and time-consuming. Marine Project, based in Palma de Mallorca, is your specialized local partner:
We procure for you:
- Technical and safety certificates
- Commercial insurance policies
- ITB inspection certificates
- Ship management contracts
- Tax documentation (Spanish VAT, customs, temporary import)
We coordinate:
- Communication with the Capitania Maritima
- Applications with the harbor authorities
- Compliance with strict environmental regulations (Posidonia anchoring bans, zero-discharge policy)
We take full responsibility for the process – from initial registration to annual renewal.
With over 20 years of experience and certifications from leading industry associations (CYBA, IYBA, ECPY, German Yachts), we have already supported over 6,000 satisfied clients in the legal and smooth chartering of their yachts.
Important Note: Newcomers Still Need the Full Process
It is crucial to understand that even under the new regulations, every vessel that has never held a Spanish charter license before must complete the full, detailed authorization procedure once. This “entry ticket” is mandatory to register your vessel in the authorities’ system. Only after this one-time registration can you benefit from the simplified affidavit procedure for future seasons.
This is a critical point that many owners overlook – and exactly where our expertise makes the difference. Marine Project ensures that your initial application is complete, correct, and submitted without delays.
Conclusion
Royal Decree 186/2023 opens up genuinely new perspectives for yacht owners to commercially utilize their boats in the Balearics – whether through the temporary change of use (Lista 7ª) or the full commercial license (Lista 6ª). However, the bureaucratic hurdles are high, and legal requirements are constantly evolving.
Marine Project removes the entire administrative burden from you – we procure all documents, coordinate with authorities, and ensure your vessel is ready on time and fully compliant for the next charter season.
Contact us today – we make the path to your Spanish charter license simple and reliable.
