As soon as you enter any country’s waters, you’re under an obligation to abide by all their laws. Detailed onboard examinations are used to check compliance. Port State Control (PSC) is the system of inspection by officials to check vessels’ condition and operation. Safety, security, environmental protection and seafarer welfare are the areas of interest. Port States can require defects to be put right, and detain vessels if necessary. This is all separate, and in addition to, any consideration of the tax status of the owner, beneficial owner and yacht.