Ship Sale & Purchase – Horizon Ship Brokers, Inc.

Professional Brokerage for Commercial Vessel Transactions

Horizon Ship Brokers specializes in the sale and purchase of commercial vessels, representing both Buyers and Sellers across global markets. We handle transactions for second-hand tonnage, offshore units, tankers, LNG/LPG carriers, dry cargo vessels, passenger craft, and newbuilding projects. Our role is to provide clear, accurate information, assist in negotiation, and manage the documentation and logistics required for a successful closing and delivery.

Whether acquiring a vessel or divesting an asset, we guide clients through every stage of the maritime S&P process with confidentiality, precision, and industry expertise.

Offers, MOAs, and Buyer Registration

Buyers may submit offers prior to inspection, subject to standard sale conditions. Formal offers typically follow recognized industry MOA formats such as the Norwegian Sale Form (NSF 1993) or owner-preferred documentation.
Before an offer is acknowledged, Buyers are generally required to:

  • Register full company style and lawful principals

  • Provide vessel ownership history or operating background

  • Confirm financial capability to proceed

Offer terms normally include pricing, inspection window, deposit, delivery range, and any agreed conditions such as drydock, survey, or class requirements.

Legal review of the MOA by the Buyer’s counsel is strongly recommended.

Deposits, Escrow, and Financial Security

Once an offer is accepted, Buyers deposit 10% of the purchase price into an agreed escrow account held by either:

  • Horizon Ship Brokers (neutral stakeholder), or

  • Seller’s maritime attorney

The deposit remains in escrow until the inspection and acceptance process concludes. If the Buyer rejects the vessel according to the MOA conditions, the deposit is refunded, less any actual Seller-incurred costs if applicable.

Escrow ensures transparent, secure handling of funds throughout the S&P process.

Inspection, Survey, and Vessel Acceptance

After initial inspection, Buyers may proceed with:

  • Full condition survey

  • Class status verification

  • Machinery inspection

  • Sea trials

  • Drydock (if agreed in the MOA)

Following survey results, the Buyer may:

  1. Accept the vessel,

  2. Request mutually agreed adjustments, or

  3. Reject the vessel under MOA terms.

Acceptance triggers preparation for closing, while rejection activates the agreed refund mechanism.

Closing, Documentation, and Delivery Protocol

Upon acceptance, parties move to formal closing. Required Seller documentation generally includes:

  • Bill of Sale, notarized and apostilled

  • Certificate of Ownership

  • Flag Deletion Certificate

  • Class Confirmation (issued within 72 hours of delivery)

  • Encumbrance-free Statement

  • Bunker and Lube Oil Inventory & Invoice

  • Any additional certificates requested by Buyer or Class

Buyer responsibilities typically include:

  • Release of deposit to Seller

  • Evidence of final balance payment

  • Letters of Authority / Powers of Attorney

  • Corporate resolutions (if required)

A Protocol of Delivery and Acceptance is signed once all documents and funds are exchanged. The Seller then issues Notice of Readiness confirming the vessel is ready for physical handover.

Ownership legally transfers upon execution of delivery documents and confirmation of payment.

Why Work With Horizon Ship Brokers

  • Global network of shipowners, operators, and financiers

  • Decades of experience in wet, dry, offshore, and LNG/LPG S&P markets

  • Complete management of documentation, escrow, negotiation, and closing

  • Confidential handling of sensitive commercial transactions

  • Real-time market intelligence and vessel availability

 

ship sale and purchase brokerage services

Horizon Ship Brokers provides complete ship sale and purchase services for commercial vessels worldwide, including offshore units, tankers, LNG/LPG carriers, bulkers, and cargo ships. We manage the full S&P process — offers, MOAs, inspections, deposit escrow, closing documents, and delivery protocols. Buyers and Sellers rely on our experience, confidentiality, and global network of shipowners for smooth and secure transactions.