yacht price per foot

• Search Used Yachts For Sale
• Search Boats By Brand
• Search Boats By Type
• Search By Location
• Search By Price
• What's My Boat Worth?
• Search Boats Just Listed
• Small Yachts
• Custom Sport Fishing Boats
• Finance A Boat
• Amer Yachts
• Aquitalia Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Century Boats
• French Yachts
• Gulfstream Yachts
• Hatteras Yachts
• Shelter Island Yachts
• Solaris Yachts
• Sunpower Yachts
• Sunreef Yachts
• Vela Boatworks
• Virtus Yachts
• Why List With United?
• Why Own A Boat Or Yacht?
• Custom Website For Your Yacht
• United Sold Boats
• Buy A Yacht With Crypto
• Find a Yacht Broker Near Me
• Search For Broker By Name
• Meet The United Support Team
• Our History
• Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
• Stuart Boat Show
• Miami Boat Show
• Palm Beach Boat Show
• Other Boat Shows
• Yachting News
• Yacht Closing Services
• River Forest Yachting Centers

Search All Yachts

How Much Does It Cost To Buy A Yacht?

By Rob Bowman | Posted On Aug 09, 2021 Updated On Dec 12, 2023

If you're new to owning a boat and want to experience the luxury lifestyle, buying a yacht is the perfect way to indulge yourself while also creating unforgettable memories on the water. From anchoring at a secluded island in the Caribbean to cruising the coastline enjoying the fall colors, yacht ownership opens up limitless possibilities to explore the beauty of Mother Nature. It can also create quite the adrenaline rush if a sportfishing boat is more your style. There are many benefits to hiring a professional yacht broker when you plan on buying your first yacht including having someone on your side when evaluating the right price, for the right vessel.

So how much does it cost to buy a yacht on average? In 2021, the average selling price of a yacht is approximately $640,000, with prices ranging from $300,000 to over $15,000,000. This average selling price represents all pre-owned boats from 40-feet to 100-feet, power (not sail), and sold in the Southeastern United States, including the large Florida market. The data collected for this sales price was from the boating industry's MLS system.

This 50-foot flybridge yacht (seen below) was sold around the average selling price mentioned above and is a good example of what you can expect when spending over $500k . It features several bedrooms for overnight trips, a galley, a nice flybridge seating area, and a lot of comforts you would find at home.

A yacht can mean vastly different things to different people depending on their style of boating, where they live, what they plan to do on the boat, and the amount of equipment they choose. A 50-foot yacht can vary in price by several hundred thousand dollars depending on how new it is, its engines, brand, and amenities. Having a conversation about your needs and budget with a professional yacht broker can answer all of these questions and take the guesswork out of your search. 

While the average price of a yacht sold in the Southeast this year is $640,000, buyers can find yachts for less if they are willing to go a bit older and/or a bit smaller.

• According to the list of 2021 sold boats, the average selling price for yachts between 40 and 50 feet was $329,000.
• Yachts under 40 feet are generally called cruising boats and can still feature a lot of the same amenities found on larger vessels.
• How much does a small yacht cost? Examples of active boats on the market right now show a sizeable difference in price depending on the length and year. For example, a 2021 40-foot Intrepid boat is listed for over $800,000 , while a 2011 Intrepid 40 is listed for under $400,000 .

(Seen below: This Cabo 40 would be considered a smaller yacht and is listed for under $375,000.)

The larger, newer, and more extravagant yachts can cost $5 million and higher. Forbes.com identifies a superyacht as a vessel ranging from "79 feet to more than 590 feet in length." The average selling price in 2021 for yachts over 100-feet, according to the industry MLS database, came in at just under $1 million. Of course, there were several superyachts that were between $10 million and $50 million on the list.

A prime example of a superyacht would be " ANTITHESIS ", a Horizon Yachts 136 that had an asking price of $7,990,000 at the time of sale. This superyacht featured 5 luxury staterooms, a pilothouse with full electronics suite, a jacuzzi, sauna, 2 water-makers, 2 generators, and a lot more top-end equipment. Yacht owners looking to cruise long distances or possibly turn the vessel into a yacht charter business would be interested in a boat of this stature.

( Seen below: This Horizon 136 required massive engines that gave it a range of over 1,400 nautical miles. )

The cost of a yacht is not the only cost to consider. Purchasing your new boat is the largest upfront expense, however, there are also the costs of owning a yacht that need to be considered. This is again where hiring an experienced, professional yacht broker can really pay dividends and take a lot of the stress out of the process. Things like insurance, storage, routine maintenance, captain and crew salaries, all need to be factored in to your expectations. We dive into this a bit more in our articles Why Are Boats So Expensive? and What Should I Spend On A Yacht?

Despite the potentially high cost of yacht ownership, it is still an excellent investment in your well-being and will bring countless joyful memories. There is no other recreation in the world that brings families and friends together, while enjoying the wonders of the ocean.

( Seen below: CHIMERA is a 60-foot Hinckley sailing yacht listed for over $1 million. )

While the purchase of sailboats still account for less than 10% of all boats sold, sailing is still a popular past-time which has some very passionate enthusiasts. According to Trade Only Today , in 2019 and 2020 there were more than 1,100 sailboats sold in the United States. As you begin to figure out exactly what type of boating you want to enjoy, as well to learn the advantages and disadvantages of different boat types, you can begin to narrow down the selection process.

Below is the average cost to purchase a small yacht broken out by type :

• Sailboats Over 40': $193,000
• Sailing Catamarans - All Sizes: $361,000
• Power Catamarans - All Sizes: $304,247
• Downeast Yachts - Over 35': $532,240
• Sport Fishing Yachts - Over 40' and in Southeast: $815,500

With so many factors to determine how much it costs to buy a yacht and maintain it, it is in the best interest of boat buyers of this magnitude to speak with a certified professional yacht broker. "Pricing a yacht in this market can be a difficult thing," said Brian T. Franc , CPYB and manager of United's Emerald Coast Division. "Pre-owned prices are definitely inflated due to lack of inventory, but there are still some great opportunities if you are fast and have someone watching the market daily on your behalf. As someone who has been in the yacht brokerage industry for almost 30 years, I can tell you that working with a professional makes a difference. We can tell almost immediately whether a boat is over-priced, what it will likely sell for, and whether or not it is the right boat for your needs.

Other Related Articles Of Interest :

• Can I Sell My Yacht Without A Broker?
• Why Are Sportfishing Yachts So Expensive?
• What Is The Best Time Of Year To Sell A Boat?
• How Much Should I Pay For A Yacht?

Interesting Boating Links

Worldwide yacht sales.

• The Most Popular Yacht Brands
• California Yachts
• Yachts For Sale Portland Oregon
• 20 Million Yacht
• Used Boats For Sale Canada
• Trawlers For Sale NC
• Yachts For Sale in Massachusetts
• Boats For Sale Stuart FL
• Yacht Brokers Jacksonville FL
• Sailboats For Sale in Georgia
• Boats For Sale Cape May NJ

Luxury Boats & Yachts

• Cabo Boats For Sale
• Used Seakeeper For Sale
• Ocean Boats
• 200000 Boat
• $300000 Boat
• 2 Million Yacht
• 50 Foot Yacht
• Center Consol Boats For Sale
• Broward Yachts
• 2 Million Dollar Boat
• Yacht Broker
• 48 Ft Ocean Yacht For Sale
• Sabre 45 Se For Sale

Popular Builders & Models

• Small Sailboats For Sale
• Sailboats For Sale Louisiana
• Express Cruiser For Sale
• Tug Boats For Sale
• Sea Ray 450 Sundancer For Sale
• Grand Banks For Sale
• Sea Ray 460
• Back Cove Boats For Sale
• Sea Ray 400 For Sale
• Power Yachts For Sale
• Sea Ray 58 Sedan Bridge For Sale
• Albemarle Boats For Sale
• Sea Ray 410

Trending Brands & Types

• Marquis Boats
• Fishing Yachts
• Cheoy Lee Yachts For Sale
• Carver Boats For Sale
• Egg Harbor Boats For Sale
• Ranger Tug Boats
• Grady White For Sale
• Jupiter 25 Bay For Sale
• MJM Yachts For Sale
• Liveaboard Boats
• Used Sea Ray Boats
• Used Intrepid Boats For Sale
• Beneteau Sailboats For Sale
• Buddy Davis Boats For Sale
• Riviera Yachts For Sale

SEND UYS A MESSAGE

Recent posts.

Jul 15, 2024

Luxury Yachts For Luxury Buyers

Jul 11, 2024

2nd Quarter Report: Yacht Sales Grow 22 Percent

Jul 01, 2024

The Hot List - July 2024

Jun 28, 2024

10 Fun Flybridge Yachts You Can't Miss

Page Loading

• Vessel ltinerary
• Administration
• Dockage & Fuel
• Maintenance
• Capital Repairs & Reserves
• Total Expenses =
• Name Length Build
• # Total Expenses Date Saved

Advanced functionality coming soon.

Us flagged vessel, health insurance costs per crew, uniform cost per crew, training cost per crew, food cost per crew, crew turnover, hires using a professional crew agency.

• Restore Default
• $   | €   | £

Costs of food provisions will vary dependent upon how eloborate food Preferenaces are

Location will play huge factor in food provisons and thing may have to be folws into remorte locations.

Crew is one of the largest expenses on a superyacht and critical to the owner’s enjoyment of their vessel. As the largest crew agency in the world, we know crew. Our cost calculator contains customized crew lists for yachts ranging from 80ft to 600ft with salary information based on our reference verified salary data.

Our users also have the ability to completely tailor the crew list to the specific needs, schedule and requirements of their vessel. Each yacht is unique and may have specific owner requests in addition to the yacht’s safe manning requirements.

Management of the supplemental crew costs and strategic budgeting can help avoid significant overspend on categories such as food and uniform. This tool contains default values based on our industry expertise and recommended budget for an efficiently and safely run superyacht.

To learn more about each crew position in detail, including salary ranges, please visit our yacht department directory .

Drag the sliders to modify your results. These are not linear scales and we expect most yachts to operate within the 20-80% window. Above 80% and below 20% costs increase or decrease at exaggerated levels and we only see numbers in these levels in very rare circumstances.

This sunburst diagram is interactive. You can click into each block to see the expense break down and mouse over each block for more details.

Our chart of accounts displays seven major categories, 20 sub-categories plus a further 80 detail categories for a total of 107.

Our yacht operating cost calculator is now on it’s third major revision. We start with actual yacht expense data from our yacht management accountants and then generate formulas to extrapolate out the budget for a wide range of yachts. We have been providing accounting services to large yachts for the past 18 years.

Our operating cost calculator is tuned for yachts from 80 to 600 feet. We find operating variables create the largest variances for yachts smaller than 100 feet and larger than 250 feet. We have tested the numbers the most in the range from 100 to 250 feet.

Our budget calculator factors in the fuel burn for a range of engine sizes typically seen installed on yachts by length. By dragging the green “fuel dockage” slider to the right you will increase the projected fuel burn rate and therefore the budget cost for fuel. Our default position would be for a typical displacement fuel burn. Position the slider in the 60-80% range for fuel projections for planning hulls.

Our default values produce a budget number that we believe is generous to run a yacht to a high standard. Perfect is a very expensive word to use in the yachting industry where standards are already high. Moving the crew and maintenance sliders to 80% will provide an “industry best” quality of crew and give them the maintenance budget to operate to a very high standard. If you need to go over the 80% area then you may have unusually labor intensive equipment on the yacht.

Yes, our yacht operating cost calculator can output a budget suitable for this situation. Adjust the owner use to 2 (minimum value), owner slider to 0, crew slider to 10%, Administration to 10%, Fuel and Dockage to 0, Maintenance to 10% and then Capital Repairs to 0. This will remove all of the large charges associated with owner use and vessel movement but leave the essential base maintenance and insurance in place.

Lift on and float in yacht transport is a popular way to transport yachts across large ocean passage. The yachts that this service certainly applies to are ones that may not have the motoring range or structural integrity for blue ocean cruising. The cost of transporting a yacht twice per year is put into our budget once the “Fuel Dockage” slider hits 75%. If your yacht has the range we recommend self-sufficient ocean passages whenever possible. Whilst the transport companies sell their services based upon reportedly well oiled operated schedules the reality is that your yacht may stay waiting for pickup for a week or more with no compensation due. When factoring in all secondary factors of self-sufficient passages (increased fuel, maintenance, potential storm damage, crew time off, extra delivery crew) compared with transporting your yacht (insurance, potential loading / unloading damage, loss of schedule control, no work whilst underway, crew flights, crew accommodation) we believe that there is a 100% premium associated with float in transport and a 75% premium with lift on transport compared with self-powered.

Abandoned yachts crash in value. We recommend that even if you are trying to sell your yacht that you use the yacht for a minimum of two weeks per year so that systems are tested and working every six months. There is nothing worse for a yacht than not being used. If you truly are not going to use the yacht then you should sell it immediately for the first genuine offer as every dollar you put into maintenance will not be recovered at the time of the sale.

We did not build this version with sailing yachts in mind. Early in our development of this version we decided to exclude sailing yachts as a few of the major cost drivers scale very differently for sailing yachts compared with motor yachts. For example: To calculate paint costs we reviewed the surface area of over 100 large yachts and created a formula for painted surface area to length. Sailing yachts just don’t scale in a consistent way. Similarly crew numbers don’t scale in the same manner that they do for motor yachts. If there is sufficient demand we may build a sailing selector switch into a future version of this tool.

We hate to hear when yacht owners were told by their broker to factor in 10% of the purchase price to operate the yacht. This over used saying is sadly right occasionally (particularly for newer yachts in the $20-30M range)… but just because a broken watch tells the right time twice a day you shouldn’t rely upon it to tell the time. As yachts get older their capital value decreases but their maintenance costs increase. There is no way that a fixed 10% of purchase cost rule can be true… if your broker told you this rule then you need a new yacht broker… we know some good ones. 😊

Advanced functionality coming soon…

We are building advanced tools to allow you even greater control over our operating cost calculator. Please enter your email address below to be advised when it is available.

Save this version

Share your calculations.

Please save version before sharing LuxYacht - Calculator!!

You must be logged in to save this version of the cost calculator that you have customized for your yacht..

• Articles and Guides

How Much Does a Yacht Cost?

11th jul 2023 by samantha wilson.

We hear the question, “How much does a yacht cost?” on a regular basis, and it’s a difficult one to answer. Much the same as with houses, the prices vary in a surprising way depending on size, style, age, and finish (not to mention location). We’re talking millions of dollars in price difference for yachts, as well, because there are yachts of many different sizes with all the same variations. But first, let’s tackle the more fundamental question, “What is a yacht?’

What Classifies as a Yacht?

To begin with, a yacht can be a sailing yacht or a motor-powered yacht. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “any of various recreational watercraft: such as a) a sailboat used for racing; b) a large usually motor-drive craft used for pleasure cruising.” Size is not technically part of the definition, but in modern practice, size has a whole lot to do with it.

Many in the industry classify a boat as a ‘yacht’ from 40 feet up to 70 feet, although there are others who will include vessels as short as 33 feet. Not too many years ago, yachts as small as 80 feet (24 meters) were considered superyachts, but with the proliferation of much larger yachts, 130 feet (40 meters) is a more common yardstick. Beyond that are megayachts, variously defined as beginning at 165 feet (50 meters) or 200 feet (60 meters). 

The point is, there are no hard-and-fast rules, and what may be one person’s pretty little 20-foot sailboat may be another’s luxury sailing yacht. And any shiny, private vessel 40 feet and up will be called a yacht by almost everyone.

While size is the main determining factor in labeling boats as yachts, amenities aboard also play a role. For example, yachts frequently have cabins and heads below allowing for overnight stays, as well as a galley, and plenty of deck space for leisure. 

The term ‘yacht’ has become synonymous with luxury, especially with the boom in huge superyachts across the world. But a yacht doesn’t have to be fancy. A sprightly 30-foot trawler yacht might look to some like a luxury palace, but Jeff Bezos and the guests aboard his brand new $500 million sailing yacht Koru would probably see it differently. 

Cost of Buying a Yacht

Looking for an average price across all types of yachts isn’t helpful either, with sizes of yachts varying from 30 to 300 feet. And that doesn’t take into account whether a boat is new or used.  Broadly speaking, in the United States you can often buy a small used sailing yacht for $15,000 or less, and you can expect that figure to go up to $50,000 or $100,000 for a small motor yacht. A larger motor yacht, or even a new 40-foot day boat, can easily run up to $1 million or more. Superyachts, of course, will cost multiple millions of dollars. 

Cost of Owning a Yacht

The cost of owning a yacht goes far beyond the initial purchase price, and even if you’re in the market for a small yacht, you’ll need to factor in the annual costs which include:

• Marina fees: These will vary depending on your location and the size of the boat. Expect to pay from $5,000 for a yacht at the smallest end of the scale up to tens of thousands for larger yachts.
• Insurance: As a general rule, you can expect to pay around 0.5 percent of the value of the boat annually. Check out our guide to boat insurance for more information. 
• Maintenance and repairs: As a rough estimation you can expect to spend around 10 percent of the value of the boat on upkeep each year. This might be lower if it’s a new yacht.
• Fuel: This will vary depending on how far you cruise and how large the yacht is.
• Crew: Yachts up to 70 or 80 feet often don’t require a crew, but the larger the yacht, the more crew it will need. Crew salaries range from $3,200 per month for junior crew to $10,500 per month for captains and chief engineers. In general, a yacht of 80 to 100 feet in size will require a crew of between two and eight, while yachts between 100 to 200 feet will require between 8 and 20 crew members.
• Depreciation: Brand new boats depreciate the most and the quickest, with most depreciating by 40 to 50 percent of their initial price over the first 8 to 10 years.

Read more about the Real Costs of Boat Ownership as well as Top Tips to Lower the Costs . 

Types of Yachts per Cost

When we talk about yachts and their values, we usually refer mostly to the length of the yacht as that tends to be the identifying factor, but the style, engine size, and finish also play a huge role in determining how much they cost. Here we take a look at the average price differences between new and used yachts in the United States at varying sizes. 

How much is a small yacht? (25 to 40 feet)

A small yacht around 40 feet (often referred to as a cabin cruiser) is often considered an entry-level yacht, but a big step up from much smaller day boats. These are likely to have cabins, heads, and a small galley, and most offer the chance to spend weekends onboard. Prices will vary widely depending on whether it’s a used or new boat, and depending on the model, finish, and engines. New and recent-model yachts around 38 to 40 feet may cost anywhere from $250,000 to over $1 million, while the price of older models is often substantially lower. The average price in the United States for all new and used yachts sold between 36 feet to 45 feet was $238,000 according to the Boats Group Market Index of 2022.

When we’re looking at smaller yachts around 25 to 30 feet, these are unlikely to have cabins and so are considered day cruisers. Motor cruisers between 25 and 30 feet range from $70,000 for an almost-new model to well over $100,000 for a brand new one. Of course, yachts with smaller engines and simpler layouts will have considerably lower price tags, but those with premium finish and accommodations may cost much more—for example, a new Ranger 29 (pocket trawler) starts at over $350,000. See our guide to the different types of boats for a better understanding of what is available and what might be right for you. 

How much is a medium-sized yacht? (40 to 70 feet)

Mid-sized yachts that fall within the 40- to 70-foot category vary in price from around $250,000 to well beyond $4 million, a figure that depends on the size, model, finish, engines, and extras, as well as whether it’s a brand new boat or used. According to the Boats Group Market Index of 2022, the average yacht price in the United States of vessels 46 to 55 feet was $467,899 with 2,273 boats sold, while the average price for yachts in the 56 to 79 foot category was $1.18m with 997 sold in 2022. 

Yacht prices vary a lot depending on whether the yacht is new or used. As an example, the base price for a new Viking 58 is $4.1 million, a three-year-old model can be purchased for $3.5 million for, and a 10-year-old model for $600,000. Check out our new and used luxury yachts for sale on Rightboat for more comparisons. 

How much is a sailing yacht?

Long before the combustion engine was invented, yachts (or sailboats) graced our oceans for centuries. While these days we tend to think of yachts as the luxurious motor vessels that far outnumber their sailing counterparts, sailing yachts have their own class. As we’ve seen with motor yachts, the size, age, and finish of a sailing yacht will determine the price tag, with prices ranging from $5,000 to several million dollars—and much more for superyachts. The largest sailing yacht in the world is Sailing Yacht A , which cost an estimated $600 million and measures 470 feet in overall length. 

When referring to larger sailing yachts—and by larger we are talking about 100-foot yacht prices—there is a “rule of thumb” estimate of $1 million per 3 feet in length. So a 100-foot yacht may cost in the region of $30 million. But sliding back down the length ladder, it’s possible to pick up a small, used sailing yacht for a fraction of that. A 55-foot yacht that has been sailing for a few years may sell for around $700,000, whereas a new one could easily retail for $2 million or more. An older (30 to 40 years) sailing yacht of 30 to 35 feet might cost only about $25,000 while a brand new one might cost $250,000 and more. See what you can get for your money with our sailing yachts for sale on Rightboat. 

How much is a luxury yacht or superyacht?

Superyachts are some of the most luxurious vessels on the sea, and they don’t come cheap. As mentioned, yachts above 78 feet (24 meters) are accepted by many as superyachts; when they range up over 165 or 200 feet, some in the industry refer to them as megayachts. This term is still debated in some quarters, so you may hear yachts over 300 feet referred to as superyachts too.

Superyachts require a full time crew to manage them, and this adds considerably to the overall cost of running such a large vessel. Given that, how much does a superyacht cost? The costs vary, with some estimates of up to $1 million per foot of length to build a new top-of-the-line custom superyacht. Used superyachts will cost less than a new build, and you may be able to buy a 10-year-old, 90-foot superyacht for around $2.5 million—although most owners will engage in a significant and costly refit every 10 years. Models less than five years old will be closer to the $4 million mark, while a brand new one will cost around $9 million. Check out our listings for superyachts for sale all across the world. 

How much is a megayacht?

When we reach megayacht status, prices skyrocket along with the length of the vessels and the volume of the interiors. The largest megayacht in the world is currently Azzam, 590 feet long at a cost of $600 million to build. Yachts in this class are the most luxurious in the world, and feature large swimming pools, helicopter pads, huge guest and crew accommodations, beach clubs, and much more. The upkeep of vessels of this size can run to $20 million or more for the crew fees, fuel, mooring fees, insurance, food, and maintenance. If you want to set eyes on the world’s most astounding superyachts and megayachts check out our superyacht travel guide to where you might find them, or use our search to discover megayachts for sale . 

Written By: Samantha Wilson

Samantha Wilson has spent her entire life on and around boats, from tiny sailing dinghies all the way up to superyachts. She writes for many boating and yachting publications, top charter agencies, and some of the largest travel businesses in the industry, combining her knowledge and passion of boating, travel and writing to create topical, useful and engaging content.

More from: Samantha Wilson

Related Articles and Guides

7th Jun 2024

Best Boat Brands for Beginners: Power, Sail, Pontoon & Fish

25th May 2024

Boat Inspection Checklist: How to Inspect a Boat Before Buying

4th May 2024

Do You Need a License to Sail a Boat in the US?

28th Nov 2023

Sea Trial: Costs, Checklist and More

• Explore Rightboat
• Boats for Sale
• Boating Articles
• Buyers Guide
• About RightBoat
• Sell Your Boat
• Boat Selling Advice
• All manufacturers
• All categories

Enter your email to keep up to date with the latest news

Join for free

Sign up now for free and discover how easy it is to keep up to date with THE latest boats for sale. Find your right boat, and tailor your voyage to finding your next boat.

Benefits of becoming a member:

• Set up tailored alerts
• Personalise your experience
• Download full specifications and broker details
• Keep tabs on your favourite boats

Are you a broker? Join as a Broker

Rightboat - join for free.

Do you have an account already? Login

Save this search

Save your search and receive new boats in your email..

You can unsubscribe from your alerts whenever you like. By pressing the button you accept the Legal Terms and conditions

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Link to search page
• US: +1 (561) 833 4462
• US: +1 (206) 209-1920
• MC: +377 99 90 74 63

Yacht Prices

When it comes to buying a luxury yacht, there’s a lot to know about yacht pricing. Here at Worth Avenue Yachts, our team of brokers will help you with everything you need to know, but here’s a general yacht pricing guide to get you started on your yacht-buying journey.

Luxury yacht prices, like the yachts themselves, differ enormously. According to 2014 sales data , the average yacht price for a second-hand yacht for sale is €7.9 million ($8.4 million), but prices of super yachts can start at around $1.5 million for a small or older yacht and rise to a $600 million, which is how much Azzam, the largest yacht in the world at 590 feet cost to build.

The size of the yacht and age of the yacht are the obvious starting points for yacht pricing, but many other factors also come into account. The yacht builder, or ‘brand’, can have an extraordinary impact on the asking price- for example, a 200 foot yacht from two different yacht builders can easily see a difference in pricing of around 20 million dollars. Yacht brands also differ in how they hold their value or depreciate relatively rapidly- this is where the wide industry knowledge of your yacht broker will be of enormous value to you when considering what the resale value should be.

Also affecting price is whether something is completely custom-built, semi-custom, or chosen from an existing identical range. As the global fleet of superyachts is growing rapidly, with over 10,000 yachts afloat today, there are increasingly good deals to be found on second-hand yachts as existing yacht owners upgrade. You’ll also often find sharp reductions in second-hand yacht pricing announced in the lead-up to yacht shows, making these yachting events a great time to shop around, view lots of different boats and get a good deal.

In the US, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the largest event of this kind, while the Monaco Yacht Show is the flagship yacht show of the Mediterranean. There are many other yacht shows around the world; see our events page for details. Yacht pricing is  also affected by global economic fortunes: the yachting industry is now rebounding after the financial crisis but there are still some excellent bargains out there.

The yacht designer’s name- exterior and interior- also affects yacht pricing tremendously: yachts by certain designers such as Bannenberg & Rowell and Espen Oeino will generally attract much higher prices than lesser-known designers. The yacht’s history will also affect resale value accordingly- yachts which have been well-maintained and lightly used will obviously hold a higher second-hand value. The range of the yacht (i.e., how big its fuel tanks are so the distance it can travel) also affects pricing, as does the brand of machinery, electronics and AV systems the yacht carries.

A yacht’s flag registry and tax status will also affect yacht pricing- some yachts will be advertised as ‘tax paid’, representing a good deal for some. Additionally, there are some tax restrictions affecting yacht purchases in certain countries. For instance, in the US a bill has just been introduced to end the prohibitive import taxation on US buyers buying foreign-flagged yachts located in US waters, and that will be watched with interest as it will positively influence yacht pricing for US buyers if it passes.

As you can see, many factors can influence yacht pricing, and it is constantly in flux due to economic and legislative factors. Your yacht broker is up-to-date with industry knowledge and where to find the good deals, so get in touch with a yacht broker at Worth Avenue Yachts to find out more about yacht pricing, alternatively fill in this contact form and we will be in contact shortly.

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Sailboat (2022)

Here are the 2022 data for our research on the average cost of buying and owning a sailboat.

Examples of Popular Sailboats, and How Much They Cost

What Does it Cost to Buy a Sailboat?

The average price of a new sailboat per foot in USD:

• under 30 ft: $2,400 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $5,700 - $8,500 per ft
• over 50 ft: $11,900 - $65,400 per ft

On average, second-hand sailboats go at 1/3 - 1/4 of the cost of a new boat:

• under 30 ft: $815 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $3,020 per ft
• over 50 ft: $5,100 - $17,000 per ft

Price of new sailboats

I've looked at the prices of thousands of yachts (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with:

Source: Yachtworld Q2 2022

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,412 - $65,433 per foot. I've used these numbers to calculate the following list:

Prices per foot in USD

Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Price of used sailboats

We did the same for used catamarans, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $471-$17,044 per foot.

Prices on Craigslist

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 10 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet.

Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect.

Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft sailboats on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead.

Median Craigslist price of a used sailboat:

• under 30 ft: $7,900
• over 30 ft: $96,900

Average Craigslist price-per-foot of a used sailboat:

• under 30 ft: $354 per ft
• over 30 ft: $1,845 per ft

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q2 2022

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q2 2022

Source: Craigslist Houston Q2 2022

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q2 2022

Source: Craigslist New York Q2 2022

Here's what I found for 30 feet and up:

Leave a comment

How Much Does a Yacht Cost? The Average Prices and Costs of Yachts

The UK has a long, rich maritime history and, as such, the yachting industry thrives in this country. Sailing is a popular hobby or pastime for many people, and for others it’s very much a lifestyle.

If you’re in the latter category, you might be looking to buy your own and be contemplating the cost of a yacht. There’s a huge variety of vessels available – from motor yachts to a sporting yacht – and the sheer amount of choice and variety of yacht sizes can seem bewildering.  There are also a number of additional costs to consider, such as  yacht insurance . This is something we can help you with at Admiral Marine.

The Average Price of a Yacht in the UK

While yachts are often regarded as synonymous with luxury, in reality they come in a startling range of sizes, designs, and prices. The average cost of buying a yacht in the UK varies considerably, according to a number of factors.

Whether you’re looking to buy a used vessel or a brand-new yacht, as well as the size and type of yacht you want, will all partly determine the price you’ll pay.

Designed by Freepik https://www.freepik.com/

How Much is a Small Yacht?

At the cheaper end of the market, you should expect to pay a minimum of £10,000 for a small sailing model which will be functional but modest, with the price rising to £50,000 or more for a new, more sophisticated, motorised yacht.

If you’re looking for something more spacious with a range of additional features, mid-range yachts in the UK are often priced between £50,000 and £500,000. These boats may come with more advanced navigation equipment, refined interiors, and extra amenities. These are more suitable for experienced sailors who are prepared to spend more on their passion.

Larger, motor-driven yachts will set you back hundreds of thousands of pounds. For example, a new 50-foot yacht costs upwards of £200,000, whereas a 70-foot yacht or 100-foot yacht will set you back anywhere from £1 million to many times that sum.

How Much Does a Super Yacht Cost?

In terms of top tier yachts – or “super yachts” – these can cost millions or even tens of millions of pounds and upwards. These vessels are often enormous (ranging from 120 feet to 300 feet in length). They epitomise luxury and may have multiple decks, along with swimming pools, helipads and sophisticated entertainment facilities.

Additional Costs and Maintenance

While the upfront cost of buying a yacht is substantial, there are a number of supplementary fees that apply to yacht ownership. You can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of the yacht’s initial purchase price on such annual costs. Here are a few to consider:

• Insuring your yacht is essential and the price will vary according to its value, its size and its intended function. We can provide insurance for a variety vessels, including  sailing yacht insurance and motor boat insurance . Contact us now to receive a  bespoke quote .
• Maintaining your yacht. Additional costs might come in the form of engine servicing or repairs.
• Finding the right place to dock your yacht is crucial and can be expensive, particularly in popular marinas. Annual mooring fees vary considerably depending on the location and the size of the vessel.

Owning a yacht is an aspiration for many people, but it’s important to bear in mind the costs associated with buying one.

You should begin your search having already established a rough budget, the size of the vessel you’d like to purchase and what you’ll principally be using it for. Otherwise, the yacht market can seem overwhelmingly diverse, making it difficult to choose the right model for you.

What is the average price of a yacht?

The average price of a yacht in the UK is difficult to determine due to the variety on offer. A yacht can cost anywhere from around £10,000 to several million pounds before you start to get into super yacht territory. That said, a mid-sized sailboat should cost you between £50,000 and £100,000.

What is the price of a luxury yacht?

The price of a luxury yacht depends on whether you’re looking for a high-spec sailing vessel or a “super yacht”. For the former, the price will be upwards of £1 million, while the latter could exceed £100 million.

How much does a yacht cost to rent?

The cost of renting a yacht varies enormously, depending on what sort of vessel you’re looking for. A mid-sized motorboat or sailing yacht costs around £400 – £1,600 per day, while a much larger, luxury yacht could easily cost around £10,000 per day.

Admiral Marine is a trading name of Admiral Marine Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 306002) for general insurance business. Registered in England and Wales Company No. 02666794 at 1st Floor, One The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6DG

If you wish to register a complaint, please contact the Compliance and Training Manager on  [email protected] .  If you are unsatisfied with how your complaint has been dealt with, you may be able to refer your complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).  The FOS website is  www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk

+44 (0)1722 416106 | [email protected] | Blakey Road, Salisbury, SP1 2LP, United Kingdom

Part of the Hayes Parsons Group

• Cars, Jets & Yachts

How Much Does a Yacht Cost to Build?

The cost to build the world's largest superyachts is a closely guarded secret.

By Kim Ayling

The freedom that comes with owning your own yacht is unrivaled and, if you have the funds to do so, the joy of building your own is even better. However, with prices easily creeping up into the hundreds of millions, and even billions, we ask the all-important question: how much does a yacht cost to build?

Unsurprisingly, the total cost to build the world’s most famous yachts is a closely guarded secret, but there are a few fairly reliable estimations sailing around the industry. One standard way to work out how much a yacht will cost to build is price per gross weight. However, while this can be a helpful guide in valuing yachts, it doesn’t always correlate.

For example, it is thought that Lurssen’s 590-ft Azzam , which features a bulletproof owner’s cabin, an onboard golf practice suite and a submarine, cost in the region of $600m to build. At approximately 13,136 gross tons (GT), that would have made her around $45,676 per GT.

REV , on the other hand, which while still in construction is set to surpass Azzam as the largest yacht in the world at an impressive 602ft, is estimated to be costing around $350m to build. Her weight is thought to be around 17,440 GT, putting her at $20,069 per GT. Clearly, biggest doesn’t always mean most expensive. So what does affect the cost of a yacht build?

[See also: How Much Does it Cost to Charter a Yacht?]

REV is thought to be costing around $350m / ©REV Ocean

Custom vs pre-designed yachts

Firstly, you need to decide the kind of yacht you want: custom or pre-design. Naturally, a custom yacht build will be more expensive. But, for that extra cost, you will get full control over the design, the finish and everything in between.

These Yacht Charters Offer Prime Access to Remarkable Places

These are the 7 Yacht Interior Designers to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Hydrogen-powered Yachts

A pre-designed yacht on the other hand will save you both money and time. This category of yacht is built based on an existing model, with finishing touches such as interiors, tenders and layout completed when she’s bought. Obviously, this leaves owners with a lot less freedom over their yacht, but it is considerably cheaper and can be delivered in a matter of months instead of years.

Choosing a yacht builder

The world of shipbuilding is dominated by a few key players. For a fully custom build, the likes of Lurssen, Feadship, Oceanco and Royal Huisman (among several others) rule the roost. With builders like this, you can expect to pay a higher price, but for that, you’ll receive years of experience, industry prestige, and cutting-edge technology and techniques.

The most prestigious shipyards will also inevitably have the most skilled team. The team involved in building a yacht is, to put it simply, vast. From start to finish, hundreds of pairs of hands will be involved in the process, with the key players including a yacht designer (interior and exterior), a naval architect and an engineer, as well as a huge team of skilled laborers. There will also be an owner representative working closely with the shipbuilder to ensure the project is delivered in time and to the buyer’s exacting standards.

Content from our partners

Nightcap: Enjoy Live Music All Summer at Nemacolin Resort

How to Enjoy America’s Cup 2024 in Barcelona

From Mexico to Manhattan: Clase Azul’s Latest Tequila Captures NYC

The cost of your yacht build will of course include the wages of each of the experienced people involved in making it, so if you want the best, expect to pay for it.

[See also: Discovering the World’s Most Exciting Superyacht Concepts]

Viva by Dutch shipyard Feadship / ©Feadship

What affects the cost of building a yacht?

Naturally, a huge variety of factors will impact the total cost of building a yacht. Size is of course one of the main considerations, but materials are another key factor that will dramatically impact cost. Aluminum, for example, is favored for being an impressively lightweight hull material but ton for ton, it is far more expensive than steel.

Onboard technology will also see the final cost creep up rapidly. Demand for smart yacht technology, for example, is continuing to grow, with more owners wanting to replicate the ease of voice control tools that they enjoy in their home, onboard their yacht.

And things that we might take for granted on land such as high-speed WiFi become more complicated – and more expensive – on the water. Kitting your yacht out with a satellite dish can set you back anywhere up to $50,000 which while doesn’t sound much in the grand scheme of a multi-million-dollar ship build, is just one of many hidden costs.

How much do yacht toys and tenders cost?

The yacht itself is just the start of the story when it comes to working out costs. On top of the build, potential owners will need to kit out their boat with all the latest toys and tenders – from submarines to helicopters – which can add a serious amount to your total.

For example, a self-drive submersible by Triton Submarines , which will allow owners to see the underwater world in a completely new way, will start at around $15m. Similarly, while you can pick up a low-grade, second-hand tender for a few thousand dollars, a top-of-the-range option will easily creep into the millions.

Ultimately, the only way to work out exactly how much a yacht will cost to build is to make a serious inquiry with a broker, who will be able to connect you with a yacht builder. From here, you can collaboratively work together to ascertain your budget and exactly how much your perfect yacht will cost.

[See also: The Most Innovative Yachts of the 21st Century]

Oceanco, who made the sleek Esquel, is one of the best yacht builders in the world / ©Oceanco

Latest in Luxury

The explorer.

Thank you for subscribing to Elite Traveler.

How Much Does a Yacht Cost: A Comprehensive Breakdown for Buyers

Yachts embody luxury, status, and freedom, leading many to wonder about the costs associated with such an extravagant purchase.

Buying a yacht is a significant investment that involves not only the initial price but also ongoing expenses such as maintenance, fuel, insurance, and crew costs.

The price of a yacht varies greatly depending on factors such as size, brand, age, and features. Understanding these factors will help potential buyers make informed decisions.

Smaller yachts often start at a few hundred thousand dollars , while larger or more luxurious models may cost millions. Meanwhile, superyachts and mega yachts can carry price tags in the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars.

It is important to remember that additional ownership costs, like annual operating expenses , must be considered when calculating the true cost of yacht ownership.

Key Takeaways

• Yacht costs vary greatly based on size, brand, age, and features
• Additional expenses such as maintenance, insurance, and crew should be factored in
• Assessing all costs involved helps gain a clearer picture of the true cost of yacht ownership

Types and Sizes of Yachts

When considering the cost of a yacht, it's important to understand the various types and sizes available in the market.

In this section, we will explore some of the main categories of yachts, including sailing yachts vs. motor yachts and the range of sizes from small to superyachts.

Sailing Yacht Vs. Motor Yacht

There are two main types of yachts: sailing yachts and motor yachts.

Sailing yachts rely on wind power and sails for propulsion, making them more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, with smaller sailboats starting around 23 feet in length. Some popular designs include sloops, cutters, and ketches.

Meanwhile, motor yachts use engines for propulsion, offering more speed, power, and maneuverability. These yachts typically range from around 30 to 100 feet, although larger motor yachts can also be classified as superyachts. Motor yachts are often equipped with a luxurious interior, offering the utmost comfort and entertainment for guests.

Small Yachts to Superyachts

Small Yachts (10,000-$100,000):

Small yachts generally range from 23 to 40 feet in length. These yachts are more affordable and easier to maintain, making them attractive to first-time buyers. They can be both sailing yachts and small motor yachts. Examples of small yachts include sportfishing boats, family cruisers, and day sailers.

Midsize Yachts ($100,000-$1,000,000):

Midsize yachts typically range from 40 to 60 feet in length. The price of a midsize yacht can vary greatly, with used models going around $200,000 while new ones can go up to a million dollars. They offer more space, better amenities, and improved performance compared to small yachts. Midsize yachts can also be classified as sailing yachts or motor yachts.

Large Yachts ($1,000,000 and up):

Large yachts typically range from 60 to 100 feet in length. These luxurious vessels come with a higher price tag, often costing multiple millions of dollars. Large yachts offer plenty of space for entertaining, as well as state-of-the-art technology and amenities. They come in both sailing and motor yacht varieties.

Superyachts ($10,000,000 and up):

Superyachts are the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication, typically measuring over 100 feet in length. They feature extravagant amenities, such as helipads, swimming pools, and even movie theaters. The price of a superyacht can be astronomical, at times exceeding $10 million or more.

Cost Factors for New and Used Yachts

When determining the cost of a yacht, whether new or used, several factors come into play. These include the age and condition , size and style, brand and model, and location and availability of the yacht.

Each of these factors plays a significant role in the overall cost, so understanding them can help buyers make an informed decision.

Age and Condition

The age of a yacht naturally impacts its price. A brand-new yacht typically commands a higher price than a used one. However, the condition of a used yacht can also greatly influence its value. A well-maintained, used yacht in excellent condition may be more expensive than a newer model with issues or wear and tear.

Size and Style

The size and style of the yacht also play a crucial role in determining the cost.

Generally, larger yachts come with a higher price tag. For example, the average price of a yacht in the United States for vessels 46 to 55 feet was $467,899, while the average price for yachts in the 56 to 79 foot category was $1.18 million.

The style of the yacht, such as a sailboat, power catamaran, or luxury yacht, can have a significant effect on the price as well.

Brand and Model

The yacht's brand and model also contribute to its price. Some yacht brands are known for their luxury, craftsmanship, and performance, which can lead to a higher cost.

On the other hand, more affordable brands may offer similar amenities and functionality at a more budget-friendly price.

It's essential to research different yacht brands and models to find the one that best suits your preferences and budget.

Location and Availability

The location of the yacht, along with its availability in the market, can influence the overall cost.

In some regions, yacht prices may be higher due to factors such as demand, local taxes, or shipping costs. Additionally, if a specific model is in high demand or limited supply, its price may be elevated due to scarcity.

Initial Purchase Price

Buying New Vs. Pre-Owned

When considering the initial purchase price of a yacht, one of the first decisions a buyer faces is whether to buy a new or pre-owned yacht.

New yachts typically come with the latest technology, design, and customization options, but they also come at a higher price.

On the other hand, pre-owned yachts can be significantly more budget-friendly, but may require more maintenance and lack the latest features.

The average price of a yacht in the United States for vessels 46 to 55 feet was $467,899, while the average price for yachts in the 56 to 79-foot category was $1.18 million. These prices can vary depending on whether the yacht is new or used.

The Buying Process

The process of buying a yacht typically involves researching the market, selecting the right size and type of yacht, identifying suitable yachts, negotiating the price, and completing the purchase.

Working with a professional yacht broker can be beneficial in streamlining this process for the buyer as they can provide expert guidance in selecting the right yacht to fit the buyer's needs and budget.

Costs to Consider

In addition to the initial purchase price, there are various other costs that should be taken into account when buying a yacht. These include:

• Insurance : Buyers should consider the cost of insuring the yacht. Insurance fees, among other factors, are influenced by the size and value of the yacht.
• Marina fees : Docking the yacht at a marina will incur fees, which can range from a few thousand dollars for smaller yachts to tens of thousands for larger ones.
• Maintenance : Maintenance costs can make up around 10% of the initial purchase price. For used yachts, be prepared to spend on essential repairs and upgrades as needed.
• Fuel : The cost of fuel is influenced by the yacht's size, engine type, and cruising frequency.

Operational and Maintenance Costs

Crew Expenses

One of the significant expenses associated with owning a yacht is paying the crew salaries .

The number of crew members and their respective positions will vary depending on the size and complexity of the yacht. For example, a 180-foot superyacht may have an annual crew expense of around $1.4 million.

It is essential to account for additional crew-related costs such as insurance, training, and uniforms.

Fuel and Propulsion

Another considerable aspect of yacht ownership is fuel costs. The amount of fuel consumption will largely depend on the yacht's size, propulsion system, and usage patterns.

For instance, a larger yacht may incur around $400,000 for fuel annually.

It is also worth considering the potential expenses for any necessary upgrades or maintenance of the propulsion systems to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

Repairs and Upkeep

Maintaining the yacht's appearance and condition requires regular maintenance and repairs . These expenses can quickly add up. Annual maintenance costs for a superyacht could reach up to $1 million.

This includes expenses for cleaning, teak oils, wax, and polish to keep the yacht looking immaculate. It is often recommended to allocate around 10% of the yacht's value to cover annual maintenance costs.

Dockage and Storage

Mooring fees, marina fees, and storage are additional factors to consider when estimating the operational costs of a yacht. Dockage costs typically depend on the yacht’s size and the chosen location.

On average, a superyacht may have an annual dockage expense of around $350,000 .

Additional Ownership Costs

Yacht insurance is a significant cost that should be factored into your decision to buy a yacht. The cost of insurance can vary based on the size, type, and value of the yacht.

For example, a 180-foot superyacht may have insurance costs upwards of $240,000 per year .

Obtaining quotes from various providers is essential. Remember that rates can fluctuate based on factors such as the yacht's condition and the owner's boating experience.

Taxes and Registration

Owning a yacht also comes with local and federal taxes and registration fees. Tax rates can vary depending on the state or country where the boat is registered.

In the United States, some states have a sales tax for yacht purchase, while others have an annual personal property tax. Make sure to research the applicable taxes and registration fees in your area to include them in the overall cost of ownership.

Depreciation

Another factor to consider when purchasing a yacht is depreciation. Over time, the value of most yachts will decrease, much like automobiles.

The rate of depreciation may differ based on the yacht's make, model, and age. To account for this potential decrease in value, make sure to have a proper maintenance plan in place and be prepared for the potential resale-value drop.

Extra Amenities and Upgrades

Finally, extra amenities and upgrades can significantly impact the cost of owning a yacht. Additional features such as upgraded electronics, specialized navigation systems, enhanced entertainment systems, or custom interior finishes can add considerably to the base cost of ownership.

Also, consider ongoing costs associated with these amenities, such as maintenance, repairs, and replacements. Budgeting for these additional expenses is critical to ensure your enjoyment of the yacht without financial strain.

Real Cost of Yacht Ownership

Owning a yacht is a luxury many people dream of, but it comes with significant costs. This section will discuss the real cost of yacht ownership , looking at the rule of thumb for annual costs and investment considerations.

Rule of Thumb for Annual Costs

When estimating the cost of owning a yacht, a general rule of thumb is that annual costs will be around 10% of the initial purchase price. This includes expenses such as maintenance, fuel, insurance, and crew salaries.

For example, a 180-foot superyacht could have an annual budget of $1 million for maintenance, $400,000 for fuel, $240,000 for insurance, and $1.4 million for the crew.

Another example is a 50-foot yacht , which may have ongoing costs between $35,000 and $85,000 per year.

• Maintenance and Repairs: The cost of maintaining a yacht can range from $1,000 to over $1 million per year, depending on the size and complexity of the vessel.
• Dockage: Yacht owners should budget around $350,000 annually for marina fees.
• Fuel: Depending on the size and type of yacht, fuel expenses can be substantial, averaging around $400,000 per year for a large vessel.
• Insurance: Insurance premiums for yachts can range from a few thousand dollars to upwards of $240,000 per year.
• Crew Salaries: Crew salaries can account for the largest portion of yacht ownership costs. A large yacht may require a crew with an annual budget of $1.4 million.

Investment Considerations

When thinking of purchasing a yacht as an investment, potential owners should consider several factors.

Yachts depreciate in value over time, making them a less attractive investment compared to traditional assets such as stocks and real estate.

Additionally, the high cost of ownership may make yacht investment less viable for some individuals.

Keep in mind that while some owners charter their yachts to offset costs, this strategy may not fully cover annual expenses. Moreover, chartering exposes the yacht to additional wear and tear, which can result in higher maintenance costs.

Life on Board

Amenities and Comfort

Life on a yacht offers a unique blend of luxury and comfort. Yachts often come equipped with a variety of amenities to make living on board as enjoyable as possible.

One common feature is the cabin , which provides comfortable sleeping quarters and private spaces for relaxation. Some yacht cabins even have their own ensuite bathrooms for added convenience.

A well-designed galley is essential on a yacht, providing the space and facilities needed to prepare meals and store provisions.

Modern yacht galleys often come equipped with high-quality appliances and ample storage space to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

On larger yachts, additional amenities may include swimming pools , outdoor lounges, and spacious deck areas for sunbathing and relaxation. Some superyachts also feature helipads , allowing for easy access to transport and travel to and from the yacht.

Entertaining and Lifestyle

A yacht is not just a floating home, but also a platform for entertaining and socializing. The deck space on a yacht offers a fantastic setting for outdoor gatherings, while a well-appointed cabin cruiser can serve as an ideal venue for more intimate events.

Entertaining on a yacht often involves a range of activities, from casual get-togethers to formal dinners with friends, family, or business associates.

A key factor in this lifestyle is the yacht's finish – the quality of the materials, furnishings, and décor that contribute to an atmosphere of luxury and sophistication.

With such an array of amenities and entertainment options, life on a yacht combines the best aspects of comfort, luxury, and a captivating lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price range for a small yacht?

Small yachts can cost anywhere from $100,000 to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on factors such as size, brand, age, and amenities.

On average, a new, small yacht may cost around $200,000, but prices can vary significantly based on the specific yacht .

What are typical rental costs for yachts of various sizes?

Rental costs for yachts can vary greatly depending on factors like size, type, and location.

Typically, smaller yachts can be rented for a few thousand dollars per day, while larger, luxury yachts may command tens of thousands of dollars per day.

Some yachts may also require a minimum rental period and may charge additional fees for things like fuel and crew.

What is the purchasing price for a luxury yacht?

Luxury yachts generally fall within the multi-million-dollar price range, with some costing tens of millions or even hundreds of millions of dollars.

The exact price of a luxury yacht depends on several factors, such as the yacht's features, size, customizations, and brand.

What is the cost associated with owning a 50-foot yacht?

The cost of owning a 50-foot yacht includes the purchase price, maintenance, insurance, docking fees, and fuel costs.

While the purchase price can vary greatly, annual costs can be estimated at approximately 10% of the yacht's value, which may include maintenance, repairs, insurance, docking fees, and other related expenses.

What are the expenses involved in buying a 100-foot yacht?

In addition to the purchase price, which can range from a few million to tens of millions of dollars, owning a 100-foot yacht incurs several ongoing costs.

These expenses include insurance, crew salaries, maintenance, docking fees, fuel, and provisions. It is important to budget for these costs, as they can add up to a significant amount each year.

What can one expect to pay for a 70-foot yacht?

The purchase price of a 70-foot yacht can range from several million dollars to well over $10 million, depending on factors such as age, brand, and features.

In addition to the initial purchase price, there will be ongoing costs such as insurance, maintenance, crew salaries, docking fees, and fuel, which need to be considered when budgeting for yacht ownership.

Related Articles

How to Ship a Boat: Time, Cost, and Methods Explained

Marine Water Heaters Ultimate Guide: All You Need to Know for Efficient Heating Onboard

Glimmerton Bridge: Engineering Marvel and Scenic Landmark

Is The Boat Market Crash Here? 2024 Outlook Unveils Key Insights

Pontoon Boat Seats: Everything You Need to Know Simplified

Mooring Buoy Installation: A Comprehensive Guide for Boaters

Top 5 Bay Boats Under $50K: Best Affordable Options for 2024

Jet Ski for Sale 2024: Ultimate Buying Guide and Top Models

• Inquire Now
• YACHT SEARCH
• Motor Yachts
• Sailing Yachts
• $1 – $25,000 Yachts
• $26,000 – $50,000 Yachts
• $50,000 – $100,000 Yachts
• $101,000 – $200,000 Yachts
• $200,000 – ∞ Yachts
• Virgin Islands
• Leeward Islands
• Turks and Caicos
• Spain & Balearic Islands
• New England
• Tahiti & South Pacific
• More destinations
• Charter Advice

How much does it cost to charter a yacht?

There are many things to consider and first time charterers can be left confused, that's why we've created a comprehensive guide to yacht charter prices (with a checklist).

The good news: It’s easy to grasp the basics of yacht charter pricing. And with one of our experts in your corner, we can help you more accurately estimate the cost of your next once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

The cost of a yacht charter is dependent on a number of factors, including the type of yacht, the charter destination, local taxes, and the base cost. (If the yacht has a celebrity owner, well that too, can add to the cost.)

Therefore, yacht charters have a wide range of base prices. That’s why charters can cost from $10,000 per week on smaller sailing yachts and catamarans, up to $150,000+ per week on the most luxurious motor superyachts.

What else can you expect to pay? This overview – a part of our planning resource, the Charter Advice Guide – offers an in-depth look at charter yacht costs.

Yacht Charter Price Structure: “All-Inclusive” vs “Plus Expenses”

In the world of yachting, two types of crewed yacht charters are available to you – “All-Inclusive” and “Plus Expenses” charter experiences. What do these terms mean exactly? Here’s a quick look:

• All-Inclusive Yacht Charters – Some charters (mainly catamaran and monohull charters in the Virgin Islands) offer all-inclusive rates. That means rates are based on the number of guests, and they include all food and drink, water sports, and fuel costs. Dockage and taxes, though, are usually charged separately.
• Plus Expenses Charters – Rates for larger motor yachts do not include running expenses, which must be paid separately. For these luxury charters, the base price is for the yacht only. Additional expenses, i.e. food, bar, fuel, dockage, port taxes, and other expenses, are charged separately. Most frequently, the running expenses are paid by an Advance Provisioning Allowance, or APA, which is typically 35% of the base price; this is an amount that’s paid prior to the charter.

Our chart below offers a quick overview of what’s included in both of these types of charters.

Average Yacht Charter Cost: Base Prices

What can you expect to pay for a catamaran, a sailing vessel, or motored yacht? Here’s a quick overview of the average cost to rent a yacht (not including extra expenses) for the most common types available:

Factors that Affect Yacht Charter Prices

Since charter yachts are privately owned, prices are set by the owner. This can explain, in part, the wide range of differences in price between boats of similar lengths. Yet, several other factors can significantly impact price, including:

• The Yacht – The year the boat was built, the builder, previous owners, and the boat’s selection of water toys can also increase the cost of a yacht. Boats can also develop a reputation, i.e. the largest or most luxurious, or having a famous builder or previous owner. Reputation can also affect pricing.
• Season – Prices typically increase in the high season – i.e. high summer in the Mediterranean or winter in the Caribbean – and decrease in low seasons.
• Destination – Your charter destination also plays a role in charter cost. For example, prices increase in areas without large charter fleets (i.e. the Galapagos), whereas Bahamas yacht charters,   BVI charters , or Mediterranean yacht charter are priced more competitively.

Additional Costs Considerations on Yacht Charter

In addition to the cost associated with running the yacht and provisioning, there are a number of other costs that must be considered. These are the most significant:

Advanced Provisioning Allowance

The APA on Plus Expenses charters equals roughly 35% of the yacht’s base price. This is a fee that’s collected prior to charter, and it’s similar to an expense account the captain can access during the charter. At the end of the charter, you will receive a detailed accounting of your APA account, plus any unused APA funds in cash.

In the case of overages, you may be required to replenish the APA account during the charter. This can be done with cash, although many choose to set up accounts with their charter brokers , which can be accessed if requested by the captain.

Taxes and Value Added Tax (VAT)

Most boats – whether all-inclusive or Plus Expenses – will not include local taxes or a Value Added Tax into their charter rate. The charterer will be responsible for paying those taxes. Taxes range significantly by destination; here’s a look at some of yachting’s most popular destinations:

• The Bahamas – Tax: 4% plus 10% VAT
• BVI – Tax: between $6 and $16 per person per day, depending on the flag of the boat
• Croatia – VAT: 13%
• Florida – Tax: 6% for Broward County, 7% for Miami-Dade County
• France – VAT: 20%, however, 10% can be applied when an itinerary includes International Waters
• Greece – VAT: 12%
• Italy – VAT: 22%, however 6.6% (over 24m) and 8.8% (under 24m) can be applied when an itinerary includes International Waters
• Montenegro – NO VAT
• New England – NO TAX
• Spain – VAT: 21%
• Turkey – NO VAT

Charterers can purchase cancellation and curtailment insurance – which is similar to traveler’s insurance. This insurance can help cover costs if a charterer must cancel or shorten the charter. Charter brokers can help you weigh insurance options, and often offer several different options.

Crew Gratuity

While crew gratuity is certainly not mandatory, it is recommended, particularly if you were truly impressed with your charter experience. In general, crew gratuity is roughly 15-20% of the base charter rate, which is handed to the captain at the conclusion of your charter.

Delivery Fees

While these fees do not apply on most charters, you may be asked to pay delivery costs if you are not chartering in the yacht’s normal cruising ground. In most cases, you will only be required to cover the fuel for the trip.

Call Worldwide Boat today to learn more. Our Charter Specialists are here to assist you with every detail and explain all charter costs. Or read our Charter Advice guide for more information and tips for planning your charter vacation.

Showing 1–4 of 288 results

282.2ft / 84m

278.1ft / 83m

239.6ft / 71m

Serenity 236

236.3ft / 70m

Additional Charter Cost FAQs

What are standard private charter yacht prices?

There are a number of factors that affect charter yacht pricing. However, on average, a week-long private yacht charter costs anywhere from $10,000 on luxurious sailing yachts and catamarans, and up to $150,000 for superyachts.

What affects charter yacht prices?

There are several things that influence how much your yacht charter will cost. The type of vessel, charter destination, length of trip, base cost, time of year, and local taxes all make a difference.

How much does it cost for a crewed vessel?

Charter yacht prices do increase when hiring a crew along with the boat. At Worldwide Boat, we offer two types of crewed charter experiences: all-inclusive and plus expenses. An all-inclusive charter yacht includes accommodation for all guests, food and drink, water sport activities, and fuel costs – dockage fees and taxes are charged separately. A plus expenses experience accounts for just the yacht’s base price. Things like food, drinks, fuel, dockages, taxes, and other expenses are charged separately and are usually estimated to be about 35% of the base price.

What’s included in all-inclusive boat charters?

At Worldwide Boat, your all-inclusive charter experience includes a diligent and friendly crew, water toys, food, drinks, fuel, water and electric services, and occasionally diving experiences.

What are some additional charter boat costs to consider?

After finding a base price you’re comfortable with and evaluating your package, you’ll also want to consider delivery fees, crew gratuity, insurance fees, taxes, and Advanced Provisioning Allowance rates. If you are responsible for these fees, your crew will handle the necessary transactions on your behalf.

What does it cost to rent a 100- foot yacht charter?

This depends on what type of vessel you’re looking at and how long you’ll need it for. The average weekly cost of a 100-foot sailing yacht is between $50,000-100,000. A weekly 80-foot catamaran charter runs around $40,000-100,000, and a week-long 100-foot motor yacht rental is anywhere between $50,000-80,000.

Does the price to rent a yacht change depending on what type of boat it is?

Yes. Worldwide Boat offers sailing yachts, catamarans, and motor yachts. All of these vessels have different capabilities, but there are other factors that determine the price beyond what type of boat you choose. The year the boat was built, owner, availability of water toys, onboard amenities, and the ship’s reputation can all change how much the ship is priced at.

When is the high season for yacht charters?

The price of a yacht fluctuates depending on the season. A Mediterranean yacht charter cost rises in the summer and drops in the winter, whereas Caribbean boat charter prices are high during the winter and lower in the summer months.

How does my destination affect charter yacht cost?

The more remote an area is, the more expensive it will be to charter a yacht there. That’s because prices go up in areas that have fewer boats. If you were to travel somewhere like the Galapagos, which isn’t a typical yacht destination, you’d pay more than you would if you were traveling to the Caribbean.

How much do I tip the crew when reviewing my yacht charter expenses?

It’s not required that you tip your crew, but it is recommended and appreciated. If you had an enjoyable experience it’s considered polite to tip your crew anywhere from 15-20% at the end of your charter.

Go to Charter Advice

Set your search criteria to find the perfect yacht

• Alaska Australia Bahamas BVI Caribbean Croatia Florida France Galapagos Greece Indonesia Italy Malaysia Maldives Mexico Mediterranean New England Norway Spain Thailand Tahiti Turkey
• Motor Yacht Catamaran Sailing Boats
• 2 4 6 8 10 12 12+

Search by yacht name

• Frank Magazine
• Denison History
• Virtual Tours
• Alaskan Yachts
• Azimut Yachts
• Back Cove Yachts
• Beneteau Yachts
• Benetti Superyachts
• Bertram Yachts
• Boston Whaler
• Broward Yachts
• Buddy Davis Sportfish
• Burger Yachts
• Cabo Yachts
• Carver Motoryachts
• Center Console
• Chris-Craft Yachts
• Cruisers Yachts
• DeFever Trawlers
• Dufour Sailboats
• Fairline Yachts
• Feadship Yachts
• Ferretti Yachts
• Formula Yachts
• Fountaine Pajot Cats
• Grady-White
• Grand Banks Trawlers
• Hargrave Yachts
• Hatteras Yachts
• Hinckley Picnic Boats
• Horizon Yachts
• Hydra-Sports
• Intrepid Boats
• Jarrett Bay Sportfish
• Jeanneau Yachts
• Kadey-Krogen Trawlers
• Lazzara Yachts
• Luhrs Sportfish
• Marlow Yachts
• Maritimo Yachts
• Marquis Yachts
• McKinna Motoryachts
• Meridian Yachts
• Midnight Express
• Mochi Craft
• Neptunus Motoryachts
• Nordhavn Trawlers
• Nordic Tugs
• Ocean Alexander Yachts
• Offshore Yachts
• Oyster Sailing Yachts
• Pacific Mariner Yachts
• Palmer Johnson Yachts
• Pershing Yachts
• Prestige Yachts
• Princess Yachts
• Pursuit Yachts
• Riva Yachts
• Riviera Yachts
• Sabre Downeast
• San Lorenzo Yachts
• Sea Ray Boats
• SeaVee Central Consoles
• Selene Trawlers
• Scout Yachts
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Tiara Yachts
• Trinity Superyachts
• Viking Yachts
• Westport Yachts

The Real Costs of Owning a Superyacht [Complete Guide]

November 25, 2019 1:00 pm

Owning a  superyacht  is a status symbol available only to the world’s wealthiest individuals and corporations. Although there is no strict definition, the Red Ensign Group Yacht Code is applicable to “motor or sailing vessels of 24 meters in load line length and over…and which, at the time, is in commercial use for sport or pleasure and carries no cargo and no more than 12 passengers 1 .” There are currently just over 10,000 superyachts in the world with around 200-250 new builds delivered each year. The vast majority are  motor yachts , with sailing yachts counting for less than 20% of the total. The world’s largest private vessel, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s 180m (590-foot) AZZAM,  cost $600 million to build when it was delivered in 2013. Eight of the ten most expensive luxury acquisitions of all time were superyachts.

Purchase Cost

Buying a new or used superyacht will most likely cost the buyer several million dollars. Pricing varies widely based on the yacht size, age, and other factors such as builder, guest capacity, speed, range, and more. The market is worldwide and extensive. Any potential buyer would be well-advised to engage a professional, certified broker to guide them in the selection of their dream yacht and through the myriad of complications in making the purchase.

• • Financing the Purchase
• • Immediate Post Purchase Costs

Operating Costs

In years past, owners and their brokers would work on 10% of the purchase price as an estimate of annual operating costs, but the vast range of yacht size, operating location, and usage profile makes this approach less useful without giving the question more thought. Building a budget for a yacht requires consideration of the following elements:

Crew – Salary, payroll taxes, recruitment fees, uniform, health insurance, food, and travel for vacation and repatriation are all crew-related costs. A good guide for salary costs is published by Dockwalk magazine every year based on an extensive survey of the crew and placement agents. Using their most recent article as a guide, a crew of eight full-time crew on a 150-foot yacht will cost over $650,000 per year in salary alone. Get a complete crew cost breakdown.

Dockage – Unless the owner plans to spend the year at anchor, then keeping the yacht in a marina incurs a significant cost. Dockage is normally sold per foot of the yacht’s full length and per night, although contract rates for longer periods may be available. High-quality marinas in peak seasons are currently running in the $6-8 per foot per night range. Electricity, fresh water, and waste removal are all additional costs to be considered.

Fuel – The captain or engineer should be able to provide the fuel consumption per hour at any given speed, so if a yacht owner knows roughly how much he wants the boat to travel, then he can estimate the total fuel consumption and budget the fuel cost. There is also the fuel cost for generators, particularly at anchor. A typical 150-foot motor yacht cruising at 12 knots will consume in the region of 150 U.S. gallons per hour. At today’s fuel prices, that’s going to be close to $500 per hour. 500 hours per year will give us the main engine fuel budget of around $250,000. To this, we must also add the generators’ fuel consumption at anchor plus any additional cost for tenders.

Communications – Everyone onboard, crew and guests, want to remain connected to their social media, streaming services, and email. The technology available in this area moves fast and with 5G coming online, near-shore costs will likely come down. For those who want broadband speed while offshore, costs are high and depend on the upload/download speeds required. Start with an estimate of $4-5,000 per month and work from there. Additional communications costs include satellite TV subscriptions, crew cell phone costs, mail, freight, and more. Get a complete communication cost breakdown.

Maintenance, Consumables, and Other Operating Costs – Having considered crew payroll, marina costs, fuel, and internet, the budget will start to materialize. One must take all other costs into account, such as hull insurance, liability insurance, maintenance and consumables, warehousing, safety and survey costs, upkeep of the navigation outfit, computing support, car rental, and more.   

Looking for more details?

Receive the complete Cost of Yacht Ownership Guide including:

• • Offsetting Expenses With Charter
• • Superyacht Financing
• • Budget Development + More

This should not be considered a financial guide. For a more accurate estimate, contact Clive McCartney .

1 Red Ensign Group Yacht Code Section A 1.2(1) 

Latest News

NEWS | July 17, 2024

Charter yacht profile: 135′ horizon stay salty.

Charter Yacht Profile: 135′ Horizon STAY SALTY This 135-foot-long Horizon is the perfect charter yacht for exploring the Bahamas. This article was written by Bill Springer. Photography courtesy of Denison Yachting. What makes a great charter yacht? It’s a question I’ve been asking charter brokers for many

NEWS | July 10, 2024

Mike horn’s four-year expedition: the final frontier.

Mike Horn’s Four-Year Expedition: The Final Frontier As he undertakes a four-year expedition onboard Pangaea, Mike Horn explains the power of yachting in global exploration and his plans to encourage the next generation of explorers. This article was written by Rachel Ingram. Photography courtesy of Mike Horn.

Monaco Yacht Show [Save the Date]

Monaco Yacht Show [Save the Date]   Wednesday-Saturday | September 25-28, 2024 Join us at the Monaco Yacht Show on the quays of Monaco’s Port Hercule. The MYS is the only yacht show worldwide devoted exclusively to superyachts at least 25 meters in length. Since 1991,

OUR PARTNERS

Call to speak with a licensed yacht broker today: (954) 763-3971

yacht sales

• Yachts for Sale
• Search By Boat Type
• Superyacht Charter
• Catamaran Charter
• Featured Yachts For Charter

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Boat Versus a Yacht?

• For a boat to be a yacht, it has to carry certain features, and it's more expensive than other boats.

How Much to Buy a Boat v. a Yacht

Getty Images

While owning a boat can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that no other form of transportation can offer, it's not without costs— they can be more expensive than you anticipate, and not just at purchase.

Key Takeaways

• The average purchase price of a 20-foot boat is between $10,000 and $60,000.
• Ongoing maintenance and other costs make boat ownership more expensive than many anticipate.
• While not necessarily a good investment, boats provide other benefits that make ownership worthwhile for many.  

Getting out on a river, lake or ocean in your very own vessel can be a dream come true.

But while owning a watercraft can provide a sense of freedom and excitement that no other form of transportation can offer, it's not without costs. In fact, boats can be more expensive than you anticipate, and not just at purchase.

Here is the difference between a boat and a yacht, and how each can come with a vast array of associated costs.

What Is the Average Cost of Owning a Boat?

The first cost associated with a boat is the purchase price. Fish and Ski Marine, a Texas-based boat dealership, reported the average purchase price for a new 20-foot boat in 2023 was between $40,000 and $60,000. If you bought the same vessel used, it would be between $10,000 and $20,000.

Boats come with other upfront costs besides the purchase price. Unless you'll be buying with cash, you'll finance the boat purchase .

The typical down payment is between 10% and 30% of the purchase price, and 15% is typical. According to Boat Trader , the average loan interest rate is between 7% and 10%, depending on your credit score, age, the type of boat and the economic climate.

You'll also need to register your boat and pay the sales tax, which may be added to the purchase price.

Fish and Ski Marine reports the annual cost of owning a standard fishing or pleasure boat typically ranges from $3,000 to $7,500 per year. This includes trailers, insurance, storage and marina fees, maintenance, fuel, education and licensing fees, and equipment and accessories.

What Makes a Boat a Yacht

Boats come in a vast number of varieties, from those that don't have motors, like sailboats and catamarans, to those that do, like cruisers, speedboats and yachts. And while all yachts are motorized, for a vessel to be considered one it must have certain characteristics, including:

• Minimum size . In general, a boat becomes a yacht when it is at least 33 feet long.
• Recreational purpose . Boats can have a wide variety of functions, such as sailing, fishing and business, but yachts are designed for comfort, entertainment and pleasure . 
• Luxury features . Yachts usually have spacious staterooms, complete kitchens, several heads (bathrooms) and other living spaces. After that there are countless extras, from pools and hot tubs to multiple dining rooms, bars and even helipads. 
• Sufficient power . Compared to other types of boats, a yacht's engine should be powerful enough to travel far distances. 

The Bigger the Yacht, the Higher the Cost 

For yachts, size is a major factor in the purchase price. Per Galati Boat Sales data , the average costs in 2023 were:

• Small (less than 50 feet): $500,000 to $2.5 million
• Mid (50 to 70 feet): $2 million to $6 million
• Large (70 to 90 feet): $6 million to $15 million or more
• Super (90 feet and longer): $10 million and more
• Mega (165 feet and longer): no average, but $600 million was a current going price 

Jim Burns, yacht broker with Knot 10 Yacht Sales in Granville, Maryland, says there are many factors that go into the cost of yacht ownership.

“Keep a boat in your driveway and it won’t cost much, but if it's in a marina slip, you’re paying for that,” Burns says. “The bigger the boat, the higher that cost will be. Everything is done in feet, and all the marinas vary.”

For example, at the Kona Kai Marina in San Diego, the range is $28 to $60 per foot based on boat length over all (LOA) or slip LOA, whichever is longer. At the Cooper River Marina in South Carolina, long-term dockage is $15.25 per foot.

Boat and Yacht Upkeep Costs

Once you have the vessel, you’ll have to ensure it remains in proper working order. Time spent on the water is a major factor in how much it will cost in maintenance.

“You’re putting a ton of stress on the boat, just from the wear and tear,” says Yosef Shimels, co-founder of Destiny Yachts, a Miami-based private luxury charter company.

“You’re utilizing the AC, the water pump and the generator. Anything can go out at any time. We have to keep reserves for unexpected maintenance costs. I learned that something will go out, and more frequently than I expected,” he adds.

Trish Taylor co-owns Fire Drill Charters, which operates on Lake Michigan, with her husband, and she has a warning.

“There’s a saying that 'BOAT' stands for ‘break out another thousand’ and that’s not just one time, but over and over again,” Taylor says.

“And it’s true. Most people have no idea of the upkeep on boats. Boat ownership is different from owning a car. They simply don’t know what they don’t know,” she says.

Be on the lookout for the cost of regular oil changes, fuel filters, adding necessary technology and storage fees.

To reduce the monthly costs of keeping the boat in a slip (if it’s too long to keep in your driveway), you may consider taking it out of the water and paying for a storage space. Burns says $200 a month is typical, but it ultimately depends on the size of the vessel.

If you can’t find covered storage, you may have to pay to have the boat shrink-wrapped so it’s protected against the elements. That too, can set you back. For example, at Michigan’s Pier 33, wrapping a boat between 34 and 35.11 feet will cost $805.

Are Boats a Good Investment?

“Boats generally lose value after purchase,” Burns says. “If you buy one for $100,000, know that you’ll never sell it for that.”

But what you put into the vessel as well as the type can help keep its value or even increase it.

"We own a 1993 Tiara Yacht we bought eight years ago,” Taylor says.

"Because of the tech and performance upgrades as well as a sought-after style that’s not made anymore, it can go for double what we bought it for. Buyers recognize well-maintained boats that have been upgraded to make the boating experience even better,” she adds.

Is Buying a Used Boat Worth It?

“In most cases a used boat is a phenomenal option,” Burns says. “For a 43-foot yacht you may pay $43,000 because it's 25 years old. To buy a new one it can be millions.”

Do make your purchase through a qualified broker, though.

“Private sales can be risky,” Burns says. “It's like buying a used car from a person online. As a broker we go through a process and handle all the transactions so the buyer gets a legal boat, and in a condition that’s acceptable for their intended use.”

It’s especially important to buy a used boat with the assistance of an expert if you're a first-time boat owner.

“If you don’t, you won’t know what to look for,” Burns says. “What’s underneath the shine? These things can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. It could be rotted out from moisture, and a fix could cost $30,000."

Pros and Cons of Owning a Boat

In the end, there are many reasons to have a boat or yacht of your own.

“They are pleasure crafts, so it's tough to put a price tag on being with your family, hanging out at a really good marina and having fun,” Burns says.

Shimels says chartering the boat out helps cover costs and provides him with residual income. "It’s also a tax benefit , because I can write off the depreciation,” he says.

As for the disadvantages, they include the unpredictable costs. “We just had an unexpected repair,” Shimels says. “A generator just went out, and it was $10,000.”

Finding the right people to help keep the boat or yacht in good working order isn’t always so easy, either.

“You have to find a good mechanic, someone to do the cleaning,” Shimels says. “There’s a variety of people you have to rely on.”

Finally, not everyone can handle the money and stress of boat ownership, and that’s OK.

“We’ve had customers who sold their boat and simply do multiple charters with us,” Taylor says. “All they do is walk on, fish and pay us. They love it. No cleaning or upkeep anymore for them.”

How Much is a Private Jet? 

Erica Sandberg Nov. 15, 2023

Tags: money , financial literacy , shopping , luxury

Popular Stories

Family Finance

Credit Cards

Personal Loans

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Your Money Decisions

Advice on credit, loans, budgeting, taxes, retirement and other money matters.

You May Also Like

Lower thermostat to save money.

Erica Sandberg July 17, 2024

8 Ways to Manage Money Stress

Geoff Williams July 17, 2024

Hidden Wedding Costs

Erica Sandberg July 16, 2024

13 Items That Sell Well Online

Maryalene LaPonsie July 15, 2024

10 Apps to Make Taxes Easier Next Year

10 Free Online Finance Courses

Geoff Williams July 11, 2024

6 Easy Ways to Pay Off Debt

Emily Sherman July 10, 2024

Honeymoon Saving Tips

Erica Lamberg July 9, 2024

What Is Money Dysmorphia?

Erica Sandberg July 8, 2024

How to Make Money on Etsy

Maryalene LaPonsie July 3, 2024

Examine Your Monthly Subscriptions Now

Erica Lamberg July 2, 2024

How Much Should I Spend on Groceries?

Geoff Williams July 1, 2024

9 Best Apps for Finding Cheap Flights

Maryalene LaPonsie June 28, 2024

Parents’ Medical Debts Might Fall to You

Erica Sandberg June 28, 2024

Should You Save Money by Skiplagging?

Disney World Costs in 2024

Jessica Walrack and Beth Braverman June 27, 2024

Why Is the Middle Class Shrinking?

Jessica Walrack June 27, 2024

Avoid Financial Disasters as You Age

Jessica Walrack June 26, 2024

How to Cash in on Unused Gift Cards

How Much Is Inflation Costing You?

Maryalene LaPonsie June 25, 2024

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Personal Finance

What Size Yacht Can You Afford?

The word yacht often brings up an image of luxury living on a sleek boat in the sea with a crew of dozens. We don’t want to take the wind out of your sails, so to speak, but even a mountain of money won't necessarily have you swimming with the truly wealthy yacht owners. For example, Tiger Woods purchased his 155-foot superyacht, Privacy, for $20 million—and that’s cheap by swanky yacht standards.

The average annual cost of operating your floating symbol of eliteness is 10% of the purchase price.

What Size Can You Afford?

The word yacht is about as clearly defined as a financial advisor , and you’ll get wildly different answers on what size boat earns that title, depending on whom you ask.

By some definitions, you can still be a yacht owner with a 20-foot boat, and you can join a yacht club and spend your weekends exchanging sea stories with your fellow yacht owners. If you are thinking about investing in a yacht, the first question to ask yourself is how big of a boat can you afford to buy?

Key Takeaways

• Not all yachts are supersized and prohibitively expensive, like the luxury yachts used by wealthy individually. 
• It is possible to rent (barefoot charter) a yacht or lease one with a group of friends.
• Just because you own or lease a yacht doesn't mean you can drive it—you need a captain's license. 
• Other expenses accompany owning a yacht from insurance to hiring a crew or captain if you can't drive it. 

Calculations and Qualifications

It can be tough to take out a boat loan if you don't meet specific criteria. For example, unless your debt-to-income ratio is below 40%, you’re not likely to hear a resounding yes from the loan officer.

Plan to put at least 10% down on your yacht and pay somewhere around 5% APR for 10 years. That $100,000 entry-level yacht (a used one would be around 30–35 feet long) is going to incur monthly payments of nearly $1,000 after you make your $10,000 down payment.

There’s also another $1,000 to $1,500 (or more) to spend on life jackets and other necessary equipment when you purchase a yacht. Then there's the question of who drives it. 

Can You Drive a Boat?

Are you qualified to operate a larger boat? If not, you’ll have to pay for a captain’s license or hire somebody to operate it for you. In addition, yacht insurance will be north of $600, and a slip rental will set you back a couple of thousand per year.

The annual maintenance costs that amount to 10% of the yacht’s purchase price, which would be around $10,000 on a $100,000 yacht.

To know what you can spend, do the math in reverse: You need to have 55% to 60% of your income available for other needs outside of your yacht. The rest is the absolute max you can blow on your obsession.

The Cheaper Way to Go Yachting

Maybe buying a superyacht just isn’t in the cards for you, but if you don’t want a smaller recreational boat, you may want to consider a bareboat charter. It’s like a lease, and just like with a car, you won’t be the owner but you can rent the yacht for a certain period of time.

This could be very short-term—for a yachting vacation—or long-term. For higher-priced vessels, splitting the costs among multiple people could make the price more reasonable. You as the charterer are responsible for nearly all fees, including fuel, boat insurance , port fees, and everything else.

There are also shared leasing arrangements . In these situations, you pay a monthly fee to a boat club and gain the use of any vessel in the fleet. You still have to pay for fuel and some costs, but the pricing is much more reasonable than trying to purchase the yacht on your own.

Some clubs offer an initiation fee that can go well into the thousands, as well as a monthly fee of a couple of hundred dollars.

The Bottom Line

Owning a luxury yacht takes truly serious money. But for those who earn a higher-than-average income, renting or leasing a vessel, teaming up with friends, or joining a boat or yacht club can make the price comparatively reasonable.

As with any equipment-heavy hobby, the costs are often higher than you think, so you’ll want an emergency fund in place for those unexpected expenses.

Business Insider. " Tiger Woods Has Reportedly Docked His $20 Million, 155-Foot Yacht in the Hamptons — and He Apparently Plans to Stay There During the US Open ."

United Yacht. “ How Much Does It Cost to Own a Yacht? ”

National Marine Lenders Association. “ Things to Consider Before You Shop for a Boat ,” Page 2.

Intuit. “ How Much Does It Really Cost to Own a Boat? ”

Improve Sailing. “ How Much Does It Cost to Dock a Boat for a Year? ”

Progressive. “ Average Boat Insurance Cost .”

Freedom Boat Club. “ Boating Made for Everyone .”

Boatsetter. “ The 5 Secrets Boat Clubs Don’t Want You to Know About .”

• Terms of Service
• Editorial Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices

Boat Detailing Prices: Average Cost For 13 Different Boat Types

We’ve analyzed some of the best prices for some of the most popular boat types. While there are many services that detailers provide, not all of them will have the same prices or packages included.

Please make sure to ask your detailer about everything you want done upfront to make sure they will meet your needs!

Here are detailing prices for 13 different types of boats to keep in mind when considering cleaning your boat:

Table of Contents

1) Pontoon Boat Detailing | Gives You A Gleam You Never Seen

Generally, pontoons are 16 to 30 ft. long (Class1 boat). As a rule of thumb, the larger the boat, the more it’ll cost to clean.

The price of a pontoon cleaning service also depends on the boat’s surface. If the surface of your pontoon appears chalky or faded, then it’s said to have its gel coat heavily oxidized and would require interior-exterior complete detailing service.

Overall, an average interior-exterior pontoon complete detailing can cost around $15 per foot and $23 per foot.

Basic cleaning packages can include:

• Wash gel coating (hull inclusive)
• Water spots removal
• Wax gel coating
• Dust and sand blowout from crevices and vents
• Storage compartment cleaning
• Carpet pressure washing
• Vinyl and conditioner
• Seat cleaning
• Canvas cleaning
• Optic clarity restoration
• Buffing polishing to remove medium to heavy oxidation
• Exterior window cleaning

2) Ski Boat Detailing | A Spotless Wonderment

This is an outboard runabout built for water skiing, with a roomy cockpit and sufficient fishing gear and equipment space. It ranges from 16ft. to 28 ft.

A simple restoration package is $15 per foot on average and can possibly includes:

• Floor cleaning, cup holder cleaning, tables, compartments, seats, and cubbies
• Wheel cleaning, tire dressing
• Vacuum interior cleaning
• Inside window cleaning
• Washing and drying of the hull
• High-end stain pretreatment
• Leather, plastics, and vinyl conditioning
• Carpet and upholstery shampooing
• Spotless wash and dry
• Outside window cleaning
• High-end cream wax to remove black streaks, algae, grime, and general dirt
• Oxidation removal
• Buffing and compounding to restore sheen

Exterior cleaning is best for chalky, oxidized, and dull-looking boats and covers the ski boat’s Hull, bottom, and Gunwales.

An acid wash would cost an extra $5 per foot. Examples of ski boats include Malibu, Cobalt, and Formula.

Check also our article with the most common problems with Formula boats .

3) Fishing Boat Detailing | Makes Fish Come Out To Play

Fishing boats come in numerous shapes and sizes. They are also known for their reliability, durability, and strength, enabling them to be operable in different waterways and remain on water for long periods.

Little wonder they pick up a lot of dirt after venturing into saltwater and freshwater. They range from 10-24ft.

Cleaning costs $14 to $18 per foot and includes:

• Carpets, seats, floor mats, and trunk vacuuming
• Interior surfaces’ wipe down with shampoo; conditioner application
• Stain and Pet hair removal
• Use of UV protection on harder interior surfaces due to long stays on the water
• Interior window cleaning
• Complete outside wash
• Degreasing and cleaning of tires and wheels
• Hand drying with microfiber materials to protect the coating
• Spray wax paint protector or UV protectant application to restore luster and sheen
• Malicious contaminate removal
• Dressing of plastics and vinyl
• Engine wipe down

Crestliner, Tracker Targa, and Lowe are some examples of fishing boats.

4) Sailboat Detailing | Take On The Waters With Verve

These come in many varieties and require a great deal of skill to clean as it does to operate.

They are generally considered a special boat and are a darling to cruisers and daysailers. They are in class 2 and 3 boat classification as they range from 25 to 80 ft.

Putting the wind back in your sails with a sailboat detailing demands at least $15 per foot, reaching up to $40.

The cleaning experience includes:

• Meticulous cleaning using eco-friendly products
• Interior glass cleaning
• Mildew and mold removal
• Vinyl and plastic cleaning
• Metal polishing
• Engine compartment cleaning and detailing
• Non-abrasive washing which removes environmental pollutants
• Cleaning of salty hulls
• Wiping of railings and metallic accents
• Rust removal and reduction

5) Jet boat detailing |For a Sharp-Looking Speedster

Known for their high maneuverability, jet-propelled boats span 14 to 25 ft. They are sizable enough to take on bigger waters, necessitating the need for detailing from time to time.

So, it’s best to expect a quote at the $15 per foot minimum rate, though it is not always a guarantee.

Prices also depend on the severity of use. Examples include Bombardier, Vortex, Argos, and Yamaha.

• Window cleaning
• Mold and mildew removal
• Seatbelt cleaning
• Protection from corrosion
• Compound on gel coats
• Seat conditioning
• Buffing and addition of protectant

6) Cruising Yacht Detailing | For Year-Long Lush Cruising

This kind of boat is for people who crave the feature of a home. It is a go-to option for enjoyable, relaxed sailing.

It offers sporty features and is sleek and comfortable. It is capable of long cruises, which is why this 25ft- 45ft cruiser is especially detailed when it’s time for cleaning.

Cleaning is sure to cost around $20 per foot. This is not a fixed price as the price also depends on the size of the vessel and its condition.

Cleaning includes but is not limited to:

• Cleaning and conditioning of glass windows
• Cockpit waxing
• Wastebasket emptying
• Dusting doorframes and handles
• Sanitize kitchen backsplash
• Sanitizing seating and kitchen table
• Shelve and knickknack dusting
• Refrigerator cleaning
• Rust removal
• Polishing of metals and rails
• Complete yacht drying
• Compound hull and topside
• Outside window washing
• Waxing and buffing

Examples of Cruising Yacht Formula, Cantius, Express

7) Bowrider Detailing | Adds Sparkle To Your Vessel

This versatile runabout boat is excellent for watersports or light fishing trips. They come in the 16-28 ft. range.

A classic bowrider design comes with a V-shaped seating section designed for extra seats and infill cushioning to convert the front end into a sunbathing area.

There are also cup holders, full-beam, aft bench, grab handles, and under-seat storage compartments. These add-ons necessitate that cleaning start from $15.

• Vacuuming of dust or excess moisture
• Scrubbing rear deck carpeting
• Fiber fluffing
• Stain removal procedures to rectify discolorations
• Waxing and polishing

8) Trawler Boat Cleaning | For An A-Plus Cruising Experience

Trawler boats, trawler yachts, or cruising trawlers are vessels designed for mid-to-scale fishing and usually under 40-feet long.

Cleaning this enormous boat costs around $15 per foot because modern-designed trawlers are easy to maintain.

Let’s look at what is needed for a trawler boat detailing.

• Upholstery and vinyl cleaning
• Canvas cleaning  using the right waxes and protectants to prevent them from cloudiness
• Brightwork and refinishing for wood surfaces that are constantly exposed to ultraviolet rays
• Cleaning, waxing, and polishing for fiberglass and gel coating for aesthetic and protective purposes.

Beneteau, Ranger Tugs, Nordhavn, and Seapiper are examples of trawler boats.

9) Powerboat Detailing | High-Performance Boat Cleaning

This high-performance boat is known for its high power-to-weight ratio and is specifically built for speed, and features a narrow beam and a steep deadrise.

They comprise Spartan cabins, with the cockpit seat containing as many as 2-6 passengers.

Its use for long-distance activities makes this 25-60 ft. speedster a machine worth detailing regularly.

10) Dinghy Boat Detailing | In Appreciation Of Nature

This vessel measures between 7 to 12 ft. and are commonly used when you want to enjoy sightseeing on a small pond or pool.

It’s low-maintenance and can be propelled by oars, sails, or an outboard engine. A bigger boat can pull onboard a dinghy for emergency cases.

Detailing this little boat requires less than $10 to detail. Examples include Sea Ray, Bayliner, and Quicksilver.

11) Deckboat Detailing | For A Gleeful Ride, Every Time

This has a wide deck that can contain 8-12 people. They are powerful and are excellent for wakeboarding and skiing.

Hurricane Sundeck, Bayliner, Element, and Four Winns are some of the most likely sought-after deck boat brands out there, and they come with an average length of 9 to 23 feet.

They are popularly used for watersports and swimming. They usually cost around $10 per foot to clean.

12) Sportfishing Yacht Detailing| It’s All About The Next Big Catch

This boat is used for hunting large fish, staying atop water for days, and is manufactured with sleeping berths, a cooking gallery, and plumbing.

You can use them for saltwater fishing and overnight cruising. Sportfishing yachts can have a length of 24 to 100 ft and can cost up to $15 per foot for detailing.

Examples include Contender, Henriques, Boston Whaler, and Beneteau.

13) Daysailer Boat Detailing | For A Squeaky-Clean Outdoor Experience

The daysailer boat is a small sailboat. It is slightly smaller than a dinghy and is suitable for daytime rides that appeal to esthetic sensibilities and your budget.

They are usually under 25 ft. and command up to $15 per foot for detailing. Hunter, Catalina, Hobie, and Sage are some examples of day boats.

Click to share...

672 Wine Club

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Aston Martin
• Dubai Tourism
• Gateway Bronco
• On Location – Olympic Games Paris 2024
• One&Only
• The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
• St. Regis Costa Mujeres Resort
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

This New 82-Foot Yacht Is Like an Elegant Triplex for the High Seas

The pearl 82 has a novel layout that sets it apart from competitors., rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

Rachel Cormack's Most Recent Stories

• Queen Camilla Wore the Historic Diamond Diadem at the State Opening of Parliament
• Ray-Ban Owner EssilorLuxottica Is Buying Supreme for $1.5 Billion

This New 94-Foot Foiling Catamaran Can Fly Across the Seas at Over 50 Knots

• Share This Article

What Pearl’s newest fleet member lacks in length it makes up for in height.

Related Stories

• Ferrari Confirms Its First Electric Car Is Coming Next Year
• Lucid Says Its New Electric Car Is the Most Efficient Production EV Ever Made
• How the Dodge Viper Brought Chrysler Back From the Dead

British designer Kelly Hoppen styled the interior of the first hull and has also created three designs for future owners to choose from. Described as “sophisticated and luxurious,” the open-plan living quarters offer sweeping, panoramic views, and multiple areas for entertaining. The main deck is adorned with a salon, a galley, a dining area, and a plush owner’s suite with a private terrace, while the lower deck is outfitted with five en suite staterooms and cabins for three crew.

The pilothouse isn’t the only singular feature on the 82, either. Pearl says the yacht is the only one of such a size to have a garage large enough to hold a Williams 395, a Sea-Doo Jet Ski, and other equipment. It is also the only one in its class to offer two aft deck configurations (Riviera or Veranda) to cater to different seafarers. Other highlights of the model include a foredeck lounge with large sun pads and a luxe flybridge with a dining table, wet bar, sun pad, and hot tub.

As for grunt, the yacht can be equipped with two MAN engines rated at 1,650, 1,800, or 2,000 horses. It has an estimated top speed of 33 knots and a cruising range of 287 nautical miles.

A true boutique builder, Pearl produces only a limited number of vessels annually to ensure quality and exclusivity. The 82 is one of four models in the lineup, alongside a 62, 72 , and 95 . The first 82 will debut at the upcoming Cannes Yachting Festival.

The Cannes Yachting Festival will take place in the sparkling Bay of Cannes from September 10 to 15. See you there.

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

• Cannes Yachting Festival
• Pearl Yachts

More Marine

This New 170-Foot Sailing Yacht Has a Jacuzzi Hidden Beneath Its Mast

Maserati’s First Electric Boat Delivers Style and Fun on the Water—We Took It for a Spin

The Ritz-Carlton’s Massive New 790-Foot Megayacht Just Hit the High Seas

Meet the Wine Club That Thinks Differently.

Receive editor-curated reds from boutique California producers four times a year.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

‘Reposado’ in Photos

Admiral Quaranta Superyacht in Photos

More from our brands, dior and armani respond to italian competition authority probe into supply chain, wnba players union questions new $2.2 billion media deal, emmys diversity report 2024: record year for indigenous actors, increases for people of color across all noms, new art initiative 0xcollection is on a mission to institutionalize digital art, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

How Much Does Boat Detailing Cost?

The approximate cost to detail a boat ranges from $10 to $100 per foot. These are base prices and add-ons can add an additional 30% to 40% to the total price.

Boat detailing prices will vary based on the boat type, condition, location and size of the vessel.

Boat detailers will provide boat detailing price quotes on a per-foot basis.

Larger-sized vessels like yachts with cabins onboard will cost substantially more to detail than smaller deck boats.

Typically, a boat detailer will quote the boat owner a basic detailing package price and then charge additional add-ons where needed.

Additional add-on charges could include items like boat bilge cleaning, heavy oxidation removal, UV protection etc.

The prices for boat detailing can be cheaper if a boat owner chooses to pay a boat detailing service on a recurring detailing subscription rather than a once-off payment.

Yacht Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a yacht ranges from $20 per foot to $100 per foot.

This is the general price range for a full yacht detailing service package.

The prices of detailing a yacht based on its size are:

• Small Yachts : $400 - $700
• Large Yachts : $1,500 - $3,000
• Super Yachts : $5,000 - $50,000

These prices apply to yachts of all shapes, sizes and brands including Sunseeker yachts, Benetti yachts, San Lorenzo yachts etc.

What's Included In The Yacht Detailing Price?

The yacht detailing price range of $20 - $100 per foot includes:

• Premium wash of the yacht exterior : The yacht detailing price includes washing, scrubbing and removing dirt, stains and grime from the entire exterior of the yacht including the hull, fiberglass and aluminum areas
• Premium wash of the yacht interior : The yacht detailing price includes the cleaning of the interior like the yacht deck, storage areas, railings, cockpit etc.
• Polishing the yacht : The yacht detailing price includes polishing the yacht's exterior surfaces like the hull, stern and bow areas
• Interior furniture cleaning : The yacht detailing price includes cleaning the interior furniture like seats, table, cabinets, toilets, beds etc.

What's Not Included In The Yacht Detailing Price?

The yacht detailing price range of $20 - $100 per foot does not include:

• Extreme rust or extreme barnacle removal : If the boat is extra rusty or there is a significant amount of barnacles, there may be additional costs added to the detailing price
• Extremely dirty bilge cleaning : Some boat detailing services charge an additional price for cleaning the bilge area

Motorboat Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a motorboat ranges from $15 to $60 per foot. This is a typical full motorboat detailing package price.

The prices of detailing a motorboat based on its size are:

• Small Motorboat : $200 - $500
• Large Motorboat : $600- $2,000

These motorboat detailing prices apply to motorboats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Sea Ray, Azimut and Regal etc.

What's Included In The Motorboat Detailing Price?

The motorboat detailing prices of between $15 to $60 per foot includes:

• Deep wash and clean of the motorboat exterior : The motorboat detailing price includes a deep wash and clean of the exterior of the motorboat including the hull, bow and stern area
• Premium wash and clean of the motorboat interior : The motorboat detailing price includes washing and cleaning the motorboat deck, cockpit and interior furniture like seats and tables
• Motorboat polish or wax : The motorboat price includes a polish or wax to help give an extra shine to the vessel

What's Not Included In The Motorboat Detailing Price?

The motorboat detailing prices of between $15 to $60 per foot does not include:

• Motorboat engine bay cleaning : The motorboat detailing prices does not include engine bay cleaning and this can be an added additional cost to add on to the price
• Motorboat cover cleaning : Some motorboats come with covers and the motorboat detailing price does not include cleaning the cover

Pontoon Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a pontoon ranges from $10 per foot to $30 per foot.

This is a typical price range for a full pontoon detailing service package.

The prices of detailing a pontoon based on its size are:

• Small Pontoon : $150 - $300
• Large Pontoon : $300 - $700

These prices apply to pontoons of different sizes and brands including Bennington, Bentley, Sun Tracker, Avalon, Manitou and Godfrey etc.

What's Included In The Pontoon Detailing Price?

The pontoon detailing price range of $10 - $30 per foot includes:

• Thoroughly cleaning and washing the pontoon's exterior : The pontoon detailing price includes cleaning the exterior of the pontoon including all exterior surfaces like the hull, fiberglass, aluminum etc.
• Cleaning the pontoon interior : The pontoon detailing price includes cleaning the interior including boat seats, cockpit, storage area etc.
• Cleaning the engine & engine bay : The pontoon detailing price includes cleaning the outboard motors of the pontoon and the engine bay around the motor
• Polishing or waxing the pontoon : The pontoon detailing price includes polishing or waxing the pontoon and adding a great shine to it

What's Not Included In The Pontoon Detailing Price?

The pontoon detailing price range of $10 - $30 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the towing trailer : The pontoon detailing price does not include cleaning the towing trailer that tows the pontoon to and from the water
• Adding UV protective spray to the seats : The pontoon detailing price does not include adding a UV protective spray to the pontoon seats to help protect them from the harsh summer climate

Fishing Boat Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a pontoon ranges from $20 to $40 per foot.

The prices to detail a fishing boat based on its size are:

• Small Fishing Boat : $300 - $600
• Large Fishing Boat : $600 - $5,000

These fishing boat detailing prices apply to fishing boats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Century Center Console, Sport Fisherman and Jarvis Newman Trawler etc.

What's Included In The Fishing Boat Detailing Price?

The fishing boat detailing prices of between $20 to $40 per foot includes:

• Premium wash and clean of the fishing boat's exterior : A deep wash and clean to remove stains, dirt, mildew and barnacles is included in the price
• Premium wash and clean of the fishing boat's interior : Cleaning the fishing boat seats, cockpit, floor and table is included in the detailing price
• Cleaning the fishing boat's motors : Cleaning the external parts of the fishing boat's motors is included in the price
• A polish or wax of the exterior : Adding a polish or wax is generally included in the price of detailing a fishing boat

What's Not Included In The Fishing Boat Detailing Price?

The fishing boat detailing prices of between $20 to $40 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the towing trailer : The fishing boat detailing price does not include the towing trailer and this will be an additional cost to add on
• Cleaning the bait tank : The fishing boat detailing price does not include cleaning the bait tank and this will be an add on cost in most cases

Sailboat Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a sailboat ranges from $15 to $55 per foot.

The prices of detailing a sailing boat based on its size are:

• Small Sailboat : $250 - $600
• Large Sailboat : $500 - $3,000

These sailing boat detailing prices apply to sailboats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Catalina, Island Packet and Beneteau Oceanis etc.

What's Included In The Sailboat Detailing Price?

The sailboat detailing prices of between $15 to $55 per foot includes:

• Premium wash and clean of the sailboat's exterior : The sailboat detailing price includes washing and cleaning the sailboat's hull, fiberglass and/or aluminum surfaces, mast etc.
• Premium wash and clean of the sailboat's interior : The sailboat detailing price includes cleaning interior seats, tables, cockpit, helm etc.
• Cleaning the sails : The sailboat detailing price includes cleaning the sails and removing stains and mildew from the sail material
• Polishing and waxing the exterior : The sailboat detailing price includes polishing or waxing the exterior surfaces to add a shine

What's Not Included In The Sailboat Detailing Price?

The sailboat detailing prices of between $15 to $55 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the sailboat's water tanks : The sailboat detailing price does not include cleaning water tanks onboard the sailboat
• Cleaning the sailboat's bilge : The sailboat detailing price does not include cleaning the sailboat's bilge
• Washing the sailboat carpets : The sailboat detailing price does not include the sailboat's interior carpets. This will need to be added to the cost

Houseboat Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a houseboat ranges from $10 per foot to $35 per foot

The average cost of detailing a houseboat based on its size is:

• Small Houseboat : $250 - $400
• Large Houseboat : $400 - $2,000

Houseboat detailing prices will vary based on the size and condition of the hull.

These houseboats detailing prices apply to houseboats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Fun Country and Harbor Master etc.

What's Included In The Houseboat Detailing Price?

The houseboat detailing prices of between $10 to $35 per foot includes:

• Cleaning and washing the houseboat's exterior surfaces : The houseboat detailing prices include cleaning the exterior fiberglass and aluminum surfaces,
• Cleaning, washing and vacuuming the interior areas : The houseboat detailing prices include cleaning the tables, cabinets, walls, toilets, showers, kitchen, cabinets, deck, etc.

What's Not Included In The Houseboat Detailing Price?

The houseboat detailing prices of between $10 to $35 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the hull area : Most houseboats are cleaned in the water and the houseboat detailing price does not include cleaning the hull area
• Adding a polish or wax: The houseboat detailing prices does not include polish or waxes the exterior and this will be an additional cost

Catamaran Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a catamaran ranges from $20 to $70 per foot.

The prices of detailing a catamaran based on its size are:

• Small Catamaran : $400 - $700
• Large Catamaran : $600 - $7,000

The catamaran detailing prices apply to catamarans of all shapes, sizes and brands including Robertson & Caine Leopard, Fountaine Pajot, Norman Cross Trimaran, Lagoon 39 and Rodriguez PowerCat etc.

What's Included In The Catamaran Detailing Price?

The catamaran detailing prices of between $20 to $70 per foot includes:

• Washing and cleaning the exterior of the catamaran : The catamaran detailing price includes cleaning and washing the multi hull and all the exterior surfaces
• Washing and cleaning the interior of the catamaran : The catamaran detailing price includes cleaning the deck, cockpit, windows, canvas, tables, seats, kitchen area etc.

What's Not Included In The Catamaran Detailing Price?

The catamaran detailing prices of between $20 to $70 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the engine bay : The catamaran detailing price does not include cleaning the engine bay and engine area. This will be an added additional cost
• Cleaning the water tanks : The catamaran detailing price does not include cleaning the water tanks and this is usually an added price

Speedboat Detailing Cost

The cost to detail a speedboat is between $15 to $25 per foot.

The prices to detail a speedboat based on its is:

• Small Speedboat : $150 - $300
• Large Speedboat : $300- $1,000

The speedboat detailing prices apply to speedboats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Yamaha 25, Tahoe and Monterey etc.

What's Included In The Speedboat Detailing Price?

The speedboat detailing prices of between $15 to $25 per foot includes:

• Premium wash and clean of the speedboat's exterior : The speedboat detailing price includes cleaning and removing dirt from the speedboat's exterior surfaces like the hull, fiberglass, window and canvas surfaces
• Cleaning the speedboat's interior : The speedboat detailing price includes cleaning the speedboat interior surfaces like the deck, cockpit, seats, floor, storage areas and windows
• Cleaning the towing trailer : The speedboat detailing price includes cleaning the towing trailer used to tow the speedboat to and from the water
• Cleaning the engine bay : Cleaning the engine bay and the exterior motor surfaces is included in the detailing price

What's Not Included In The Speedboat Detailing Price?

The speed boat detailing prices of between $15 to $25 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the speedboat cover : Cleaning the speedboat cover is not included in the speedboat detailing price but can be added on for a relatively cheap price
• Cleaning the speedboat's bilge : Cleaning the speedboat's bilge is not included in the speedboat detailing price and it will needed t be added on

Deck Boat Detailing Cost

The cost of detailing a deck boat ranges from $15 to $25 per foot.

The prices of detailing a deck boat based on its size are:

• Small Deck Boat : $150- $250
• Large Deck Boat : $250 - $600

The deck boat detailing prices apply to deck boats of all shapes, sizes and brands including Four Winns, Bayliner, Hurricane Boats etc.

What's Included In The Deck Boat Detailing Price?

The deck boat detailing prices of between $10 to $25 per foot includes:

• Premium deck boat exterior wash and clean : The deck boat detailing price includes cleaning the entire exterior of the vessel including the hull, deck, propeller, fiberglass, aluminum etc.
• Premium deck boat interior wash and clean : The deck boat detailing price includes cleaning the seats, cockpit, window, storage, floor, canvas etc.
• A clean of the towing trailer : The deck boat detailing price includes cleaning the towing trailer used to transport the deck boat
• Cleaning the outboard motorboats : The deck boat detailing price includes cleaning the outboard motors and the engine bay

What's Not Included In The Deck Boat Detailing Price?

The deck boat detailing prices of between $10 to $25 per foot does not include:

• Cleaning the deck boat bilge : Cleaning the bilge area of the deck boat is not included in the price of deck boat detailing and will be an additional cost
• Cleaning the deck boat covers : Cleaning the deck boat covers of the deck boat is not included in the price of deck boat detailing and will be an added cost

Boat Detailing Prices Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are the 5 most commonly asked questions about boat detailing prices.

What Is The Cheapest Type Of Boat To Detail?

Pontoons, with a detailing price range of $10 to $30 per foot, are the cheapest type of boat to detail.

What Is The Most Expensive Type Of Boat To Detail?

Yachts, with a detailing price range of $20 to $100 per foot, are the most expensive type of boats to detail.

What Are The Factors That Influence Boat Detailing Prices?

The 7 factors that influence boat detailing prices are:

• Size of the boat : The larger the boat, the more time and resources it will take to detail which can increase the price
• Condition of the boat : If the boat is heavily soiled or has extensive damage, it will require more time and effort to detail which can also increase the price
• Type of detailing services required : Different types of detailing services such as waxing, buffing, and polishing may have different costs associated with them
• Location : The cost of boat detailing services can vary depending on the location as some areas may have higher labor and material costs
• Experience and expertise of the detailing professional : More experienced and skilled detailing professionals may charge more for their services
• Time of year : Boat detailing prices may be higher during peak boating season in the summer months when demand for services is higher
• Extra services : If the boat owner requests additional extra services such as cleaning the carpets or upholstery, this can increase the price

What Time Of Year Are Boat Detailing Prices The Most Expensive?

In the summer months, boat detailing prices are the most expensive as demand for boat detailing services are at the highest of the year.

What Time Of Year Are Boat Detailing Prices The Cheapest?

In the winter months, boat detailing prices are the cheapest, typically 10% to 20% cheaper than peak prices as demand is much lower for boat detailing during winter months.