October, 2022
In Abril 2021, the Costa Rican Congress approved law 9977, "Ley de Impulso a las Marinas Turísticas y Desarrollo Costero", published in La Gaceta on April 23rd, 2021. This law has legally opened the door for international vessels' chartering services in Costa Rica.
Before this amendment of law 7744, "Concesión y Operación de Marinas y Atracaderos Turísticos," foreign vessels were allowed to use Costa Rica's marina facilities. However, the chartering service was prohibited. Hence, it was unattractive for international boats who are in the entertainment industry, looking to satisfy the needs of modern and luxury tourism.
How is the chartering service going to work?
Chartering service, as defined in the law, is an activity in which a vessel (24 meters or greater in length) with an international flag is the object of a leasing contract. The chartering includes all the crew members, supplies, and logistics needed. Thus, a third party leases the vessel services to enjoy various activities, including tourism, fishing, and scuba diving.
The chartering license will be issued by the ICT (Instituto Costarricense de Turismo), per Article 5 of the reglementary dispositions; these are the steps to follow:
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