Hello,
I have been sailing in the Mediterranean and my 18 months end on Dec 23, 2024. I'm planning to cross back to the Caribbean from the Canary Islands around the end of the year, 7 days later. I understand that you could get the boat out of the water for repairs ( bottom paint) and, the time that she's out would not count on the 18 month window. I'm thinking to haul out in October for three weeks while I go back home. 
I would appreciate if someone can point me out to the regulations or, just give me an informal opinion.
Thanks,
Gian Luca
s/v Vivaldi