Explore Europe by Boat, Barge or Yacht, or Live Aboard a Boat, Barge or Yacht
Professional guidance for international buyers cruising or living aboard in Europe
Dreaming of navigating Europe’s rivers, canals, and coastal waters? Or are you planning to live aboard a vessel while enjoying the European lifestyle? Doeve Brokers & Valuers is your experienced and independent partner for purchasing the right vessel and understanding the European regulations, certifications, and practical realities.
Whether you are looking for a Motor Yacht, Luxe Motor, Tjalk, or a liveaboard barge, we help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions — before you travel to Europe to view vessels.
- European certified ship & yacht brokerage and professional valuator
- Specialist in former commercial vessels converted to liveaboards
- Independent advice, inspections and buyer representation
Buying a Vessel in Europe: Expertise You Can Rely On
Purchasing a barge or yacht in Europe is exciting, but it can also be complex. Regulations differ per country, certification requirements are strict, and costs can add up quickly. Many international buyers discover too late that a vessel is not suitable for European inland waterways or permanent liveaboard use.
That is where our expertise makes the difference.
Topics we advise on
- ES-TRIN regulations and inland navigation certification requirements
- CE certification and compliance pathways
- Whether you need a boating licence in Europe
- Dutch registration and flagging of vessels
- The true cost of ownership (insurance, maintenance, mooring, taxes)
- Finding a mooring or berth in the Netherlands
- Selecting the right vessel for European waterways
- What it realistically takes to cruise Europe long-term
- Choosing the right Motor Yacht, Luxe Motor, Tjalk or liveaboard barge
Read more about European inland vessel certification
What you receive when you contact us
- Clear and honest answers to your questions
- Practical advice based on decades of brokerage and valuation experience
- Guidance in selecting vessels that truly match your plans and budget
- Professional insight, even if you are still in the early orientation phase
Our role is to help you make well-informed decisions — not to push a sale.
Avoid Wasting a Trip to Europe
Many international buyers travel to Europe and spend days viewing vessels, only to discover they are unsuitable, overpriced, or hiding expensive technical issues.
Independent purchasing agent support
- Inspect vessels on your behalf
- Provide honest feedback on condition, value, suitability and risks
- Create a realistic shortlist before you travel
- Save you time, money, and disappointment
Request advice or contact us
Interested in cruising or living aboard in Europe? We invite you to contact us for an initial, no-obligation discussion.
Please include:
- Your current location and time zone
- The type of vessel you are considering
- Your intended use (cruising, liveaboard, long-term stay)
Buying or Selling with Doeve Brokers & Valuers
The purchase or sale of a liveaboard vessel requires specialist maritime knowledge and careful guidance. Doeve Brokers & Valuers have decades of experience as an independent specialist in inland shipping, commercial vessels and pleasure craft. We support clients throughout the Netherlands and internationally.
Choose certainty on the water with professional guidance from Doeve Brokers & Valuers.
