Lombard Yacht Import Finance - Rate Table (October 2026)
| Term | Rate from (APR) | Max LTV | Min Loan | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 5 years | 5.9% | 75% | £50,000 | Best available rate band |
| 5–10 years | 6.4% | 75% | £50,000 | Mid-term pricing |
| 10–12 years | 6.9% | 70% | £50,000 | Longer-term pricing |
| Rate ceiling | 9.2% | 65% | £50,000 | Higher-risk / adverse credit |
Lombard (NatWest Group) offers the keenest rates but is strict on UK/EU VAT-paid status. Rates are indicative and subject to lender credit assessment, vessel survey and final underwriting. October 2026.
About Lombard Yacht Import Finance
Lombard, part of NatWest Group and one of the UK's largest asset finance providers, offers yacht import finance at the most competitive rates available through our panel - from 5.9% APR. However, Lombard's criteria are among the most stringent: they require that the vessel is either UK VAT-paid or EU VAT-paid with full supporting documentation, and will not consider vessels where VAT status is unclear, disputed or currently under HMRC review. Additionally, Lombard expects the borrower to have an existing NatWest/RBS banking relationship or to open one, which can be a consideration for some applicants.
For buyers who qualify - purchasing a well-documented European yacht with clean VAT history, strong personal or business credit, and the ability to fund a 25% or greater deposit - Lombard offers terms to 12 years, up to 75% LTV and some of the most attractive monthly payment structures in the specialist marine lending market. Their minimum advance of £50,000 reflects the size of transaction they are targeting.
Lombard's marine finance team is experienced, their documentation requirements are clearly communicated, and their credit decisions - while thorough - are relatively swift for pre-packaged applications submitted by brokers. Doulton Bridging Finance has an established relationship with Lombard's marine division and can facilitate introductions and pre-application discussions for suitable clients. If your import case is straightforward and well-documented, Lombard should be the first lender we model for you.
Strengths
- Lowest starting rate (5.9% APR) of any lender in our import panel
- NatWest Group institutional backing and stability
- 12-year maximum term
- 75% LTV
- Fast credit decisions for pre-packaged broker applications
- Competitive for large, well-documented cases
Limitations to note
- Strictest VAT documentation requirements in the panel
- £50,000 minimum advance
- NatWest/RBS banking relationship preferred
- Not suitable for flags of convenience or VAT-uncertain vessels
- Less flexible on adverse credit or complex structures