Buying a yacht is exciting — and a little easier when you know what's coming. Whether it's your first boat or your next step up, here's how we guide buyers from the first conversation to the keys.
1. Start with how you'll use it
Weekend day trips, entertaining at the sandbar, cruising to the Bahamas, or longer passages each point to different sizes, layouts and styles — express cruiser, sport yacht, flybridge, center console or long-range motor yacht. Who's coming aboard, how often, and where you'll keep the boat all shape the right choice.
2. Budget for ownership, not just purchase
- Dockage or storage
- Insurance
- Routine maintenance, haul-outs and bottom paint
- Fuel
- Crew or captain, if needed
- Registration, documentation and any applicable taxes
A rule of thumb often quoted in the industry is to budget roughly 10% of the yacht's value per year for running costs — actual costs vary widely with size, age and use, so we'll help you build a realistic picture.
3. Line up financing and insurance early
If you plan to finance, pre-approval clarifies your range and strengthens your offer. Insurance quotes are worth getting early too, especially for larger yachts or if you plan to cruise outside U.S. waters.
4. Search and shortlist
Browse our current inventory to get a feel for the market. As your buyer's broker, we can also search listings across the co-brokerage network, arrange showings and give you an honest read on each yacht.
5. Make an offer
Offers are made through a written purchase agreement, usually with a deposit held in escrow — commonly around 10% of the price — and contingent on a satisfactory survey and sea trial.
6. Survey and sea trial
An independent marine surveyor inspects the hull, systems and safety equipment (usually including a haul-out), and an engine survey is strongly recommended. The sea trial lets you see how the yacht performs underway. Based on the results, you can accept, negotiate, or walk away under the terms of the agreement.
7. Closing and delivery
Title and documentation are transferred, funds move through escrow, and the yacht is yours. We coordinate the details so you can focus on the first trip.
Ready to start looking? Contact us or explore the Buy page. (General information only — please consult your own legal, tax and finance advisors.)
