In July, the new tax legislation known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBBA) was approved, introducing significant measures in favor of the yachting sector, particularly the charter market. Among the most relevant provisions is the possibility of 100% bonus depreciation in the year of purchase for yachts used for charter operations.

A measure that could reshape the playing field, paving the way for a new season of strategic investments in the charter yacht segment.

An unprecedented tax incentive

The bill allows companies or individuals with business activity who purchase a yacht for charter to deduct the full value of the asset within the same fiscal year. This results in an immediate reduction of the taxable base and a positive impact on the operators' cash flow.

In practical terms, anyone purchasing and placing a yacht into service by December 31, 2025, can already benefit from the deduction in the current tax return.

Objective: supporting the sector and attracting new investors

The move aims to boost the growth of the charter industry by recognizing its economic and tourism value, as well as its potential to generate employment across the entire supply chain.

The measure has already sparked interest among shipyards, management companies, and private owners considering entering the charter business. The possibility of recovering the entire investment fiscally in record time represents a strong incentive to renew or expand fleets.

An opportunity to seize by 2025

According to current information, the benefit will apply only to acquisitions completed and in service within the current calendar year. Therefore, the final deadline to take advantage of the full depreciation is December 31, 2025, unless extended or updated.

For this reason, industry players are already working to finalize construction or acquisition contracts by autumn, also in light of the major international boat shows scheduled for the season, from Cannes to Monaco, where key negotiations traditionally take place.

The introduction of 100% depreciation for charter yachts, established by the 2025 “One Big Beautiful Bill,” represents a concrete lever for relaunching the charter sector, particularly in the premium segment. The ability to deduct the full value of the investment within the first fiscal year can have a significant impact on financial planning for owners and management companies, encouraging fleet modernization and attracting new operators.

It now remains to be seen whether Europe — including Italy — will take the hint, possibly introducing similar measures to support a sector with strong industrial, tourism, and employment potential.

Filippo Ceragioli

Sources:

https://jfayacht.com/about-us/blog/bonus-depreciation-for-yachting-and-aviation/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.stinson.com/newsroom-publications-one-big-beautiful-bill-explained?utm