Boat technical inspection in Spain (ITB): what it is and how to prepare
Quick answer
The ITB (Inspección Técnica de Buques) is Spain’s mandatory technical inspection for recreational boats, often called the "boat MOT". It is carried out by authorised inspection bodies and checks hull, engine, electrics, safety equipment and paperwork. Frequency depends on boat type, length and age, so check current regulations for your boat.
What the ITB checks
- Hull and underwater parts: general condition, through-hulls and seacocks (sometimes requires haul-out).
- Engine and propulsion: operation, leaks, exhaust and ventilation.
- Electrical and fuel installation.
- Safety equipment: lifejackets, flares, extinguishers, liferaft depending on navigation zone.
- Paperwork: registration, seaworthiness certificate and insurance.
How to prepare
- Check expiry dates of safety gear.
- Run an engine check and fix leaks.
- Combine with antifouling if the bottom must be inspected.
- Test navigation lights, bilge pump and electrics.
Find professionals
On Caranva Boats you can find ITB and inspection specialists and nautical paperwork agencies.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an MOT for boats in Spain?
Yes: it is called the ITB (Inspección Técnica de Buques) and is carried out by bodies authorised by the maritime administration.
How often is the ITB required?
It depends on length, boat type and age. Check current regulations or ask an authorised inspection body for your boat’s exact intervals.
Boat inspection (ITB) by port
Boat inspection (ITB): professionals by area
Related guides
Boat engine maintenance checklist before the season
The list marine mechanics use to prepare an engine for the season, adapted for inboards and outboards.
Boat maintenance calendar: what to do each season
A simple annual plan to keep your boat ready: what to check before, during and after the season.
Other maintenance services
Engine service
Basic boat engine maintenance means changing oil and filters every 100–200 hours or once a year, replacing the raw-water pump impeller every 1–2 years, checking anodes, belts and coolant, and inspecting the fuel system. Doing it before the season prevents most breakdowns at sea.
View serviceAntifouling & haul-out
Antifouling is the paint applied below the waterline to stop algae, barnacles and other organisms sticking to the hull. In the Mediterranean it is usually renewed once a year during haul-out, when the bottom is also cleaned and anodes, propeller and through-hulls are checked.
View serviceWinterisation & end of season
Winterisation is the service done at the end of the season so the boat survives the winter without damage: oil and filter change, fuel stabiliser and a full tank, cooling-system protection, batteries charged or disconnected, deep cleaning, interior ventilation and checks on hull, teak and mooring lines. It is usually done in October or November.
View service