65 foot sailboat cost

How Much Sailboats Cost On Average (380+ Prices Compared)

Turns out that owning a sailboat is pretty affordable. OK, it isn't cheap, but it can absolutely be done on a budget. In this article, I'll show you exactly what to expect.

Sure, super yachts are expensive, but so is everything super (except for maybe supermarkets). But a modest, used sailboat can be as cheap as $2,500 and an additional $1,400 per year.

It may come as a surprise to you that you can get a decent sailboat for as little as $1,500 on Craigslist.

Average sailboat costs at a glance

We've compared thousands of listings, so you don't have to. If you just want the ballpark figures, here they are:

The average price of new sailboats is $425,000 ($127,000 to $821,000). The average price of used sailboats is $278,000 ($67,000 to $555,000). Maintenance costs are on average $2,000 - $3,000 per year, and the average total annual cost is $3,000 to $7,000.

Of course the price of a sailboat depends on our choices. We decide whether sailing is a rich man's game, or actually a very good holiday investment. (It beats driving to a bungalow park for sure - both cost-wise and the experience itself.)

How Much To Charter a Superyacht? (Less Than You Think)

Why you should trust us These figures are based on our latest research which was last updated September 26th 2023 . We do this research every year, giving us very accurate numbers and clear insight into the trend of sailboat prices. We've literally compared thousands of sailboat listings over the years, and we've done so methodically. The research is done by our researcher Tay, who is an engineer by trade.

This will be a long article because there are so many aspects to cover. I'd like to spend some time exploring the costs of actually buying the boat. Then I want to go into recurring costs , like mooring, maintenance, and insurance.

To really drive home what you're getting into , I'll give four real-life examples. These examples include every expense as a separate line-item. And we'll go over them line-by-line together.

Then I'll share our exact research results with you . This will include all our numbers: new vs. used, average price per foot, and much more. These are extremely detailed numbers (you don't have to read this if you don't want to).

At the end of the article, we'll discuss why a boat doesn't just cost money: she can actually make you some if you wanted.

• A used family week-ender with a small cabin will cost roughly $30,000 (all-in for the first year).
• If you dream of sailing around the world, expect to spend around $100,000.
• New sailboats on average cost twice as much as used boats.
• Maintenance cost are 5-10% of the boat's value per year. Docking costs are roughly $800 - $2,500 per year.
• Sailboat prices have gone up 30% this year.

On this page:

Average sailboat cost: 2023 summary, examples of popular sailboats, and how much they cost, what does it cost to buy a sailboat, what does it cost to own a sailboat, make or save some money, related questions.

Before we really get into it, I first want to give you the quick rundown. So I've summarized our research for you.

Buying a sailboat

Small boats are up to 30 foot long . They'll be very capable and great for solo sailors or small families who want to go on day trips, or short week-end trips on inland waters. Some of them will have cabins and sleeping quarters, although small.

Medium boats are between 30 and 50 foot long . They'll host larger parties and will be more suited for longer trips, coastal sailing, or even bluewater cruising. Sailboat length isn't necessarily the most important feature for that, though.

Large boats are 50 foot and up . This is proper yacht territory, and they'll be a lot more luxurious, and also exponentially more expensive.

If you buy via a broker, you typically get more reliable boats, but also pay more. If you buy off of Craigslist, you get a fat discount, but there are more lemons on there too.

You could hire a boat surveyor who will inspect the boat before you buy it (much like when you buy a house). Those surveys are not very expensive and can be worth your money.

Owning a sailboat

There are a lot of costs involved with simply owning a boat. The biggest expenses will be docking and maintenance.

Those two alone will account for roughly 80% of your yearly expenses.

• Maintenance : 5-10% of the boat's value
• Docking : $800-$2,500 per year on average, depeding on location

If we want to know what we're getting ourselves into, we should know every expense to the dot.

Below, we'll go over four very different case studies. I'm hoping one of these will relate to your specific situation. It'll show you what to expect and how to budget for your purchase.

The four sailboat case studies

• What does it cost if you want to keep your boat in good shape and have a good sailing experience? - aka: most people
• What does it cost if you ONLY spend the absolute minimum amount to keep her floating?
• If I want to sail the world on a budget, what's the absolute minimum?
• If sailing is more of a status thing to you, how much money COULD you spend?

There are a lot of great boats out there for a good price and there are also some boats that are so expensive (or so cheap), it's not even fun to look at them.

But one thing's for sure: there are plenty of boats available, and even if you're on a very tight budget, you could absolutely still make it work. Sailing in and of itself is actually not that expensive: wind is free, water is free, boats can be cheap - if you're willing to look around a bit. It's all the little extras that add up quickly.

Listed below are 4 boats that make great beginner boats. Since more than 80% of all boats that are bought are second-hand, I'll use the prices of used boats I found on Craigslist.

If you want to know exactly where the numbers come from, don't worry, I'll explain them after the 4 examples.

1. Island Packet 26' for stressless weekends on the lake

The one-time costs are $24,860 Your total recurring costs are $5,650 per year, or $471 per month

Let's say you're like me and most other people and just want a nice boat without too much hassle. So you pay people for complex maintenance. You do the required maintenance and save up for future repairs. You do a little yourself, which saves you a couple of hundred of bucks a year. You also join a (cheap) sailing club to learn how to not trash the boat. You get the right trailer, and you save up some money for future repairs. You don't want to buy a bad boat, so you pay a fair purchase price

One-Time Costs:

Recurring Costs:

2. Extreme Low Budget Catalina 22'

Ok, I'm very interested in how cheap you could actually go (in theory). Is it do-able to buy a very cheap sailboat and just keep her afloat, never change sails, and only pay for maintenance that is absolutely necessary to not sink?

In this scenario, I don't care about speed, so I don't change sails. I certainly won't join a sailing club, and I try to save some money on the marina by boondocking. I also happen to live in a cheap state registration and tax-wise.

Docking costs can get out of hand For an average sailboat, depending on your area and wishes, up to $5,000/year . Read everything about docking costs

I try to pay as little as possible for the boat itself (and I've actually found a Catalina 22 for $2,250 on Craigslist today!). I don't save up for rigging and hardware (tomorrows' worries). I try to get an extra 2 years out of my bottom paint and I only do the essential repairs, and I do them myself. But because I saved so much on the purchase, this little boat needs a lot of maintenance.

Luckily, I have time on my hands and know my way around engines and rigging, so I do all of it myself (with the help of YouTube).

I don't bother with winterizing my boat, I'll just sail somewhere warm. Oh, and I'll use the engine as little as possible to save on gas.

Will your boat be happy? Definitely not, but your wallet will be (for now). Can it be done? It's optimistic, but yes, I think it can be done. But you have to be mechanically inclined, and pretty creative.

The one-time costs are $2,428 Your total recurring costs are $1,380 per year, or $115 per month

Recurring Costs

3. Low Budget 35' Ocean Cruiser for traveling the world

If you dream of crossing oceans, you need a comfortable ride. Usually, most sailors pick a boat that's between 32' - 50' for two person ocean cruising. Anything under 32' gets pretty uncomfortable in high waves, although it can be done.

But this is also the range that gets expensive - quickly . So if we're on a tight budget, but also need a good and reliable boat: how much will it cost?

The boat will cost you $35,000. For this price, I've seen a beautiful 1983 wooden cutter (by Robert Tucker), multiple Beneteau Oceanis from '88 - '89, multiple Bavarias ... plenty of solid choices on the second-hand market here.

In this example, you don't join any sailing clubs (I assume you're pretty experienced if you want to cross oceans). You also don't winterize (you're sailing the Caribbean by now). No trailer, as you won't haul it out of the water any time soon.

You do pay a fair price for the boat because you don't want any surprises during your Tour du Monde. In need of a lot of bottom paint , since you're in saltwater most of the time. It's also a good idea to invest in at least SOME navigation equipment, so for $500 I've added a simple but capable GPS chartplotter and compass.

You can get a cheap but reliable chartplotter and compass for less than $500 - in total. If you want to learn more, head over to the recommended gear section .

The one-time costs are $37,590 Your total recurring costs are $5,425 per year, or $452 per month

4. Powerful 40' Yacht (and everything that goes with it)

Let's say you're in the game for the fame. What does it cost me to own a grande yacht with all luxuries (and costs) that go with it?

I join an expensive sailing club, hire pros that maintain the thing beautifully, and I also pay for winterization, the best trailer I can find. I replace my sails and running rigging every 5 years - since speed matters to me. Because she's my pride, I paint her every year. I spend an additional 500 bucks a year on special soaps and waxes.

I want a prime mooring location, so I pay a premium. I also get a small boat to hang from the large boat, to get to shore more quickly.

The one-time costs are $166,400 Your total recurring costs are $15,150 per year, or $1,263 per month

There are a couple of important factors that determine how much money you end up spending.

• Size - length determines mooring costs, insurance, amount of paint on your hull, literally everything gets more expensive with every foot of length
• New vs. used - of course, it makes all the difference whether you buy new or used. Typically, the price of a 25-year old used sailboat vs. a comparable new one is 3-4 times lower ($60,000 vs $200,000).

With used sailboats, I find that the price generally increases rapidly from 30 feet onwards

It's the same with new sailboats - or actually, it keeps increasing with every extra couple of feet. The reason is that as the boat gets bigger, it also gets more luxurious (upholstery, finishing, equipment).

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

• under 30 ft: $3,217 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $7,625 - $11,128 ft
• over 50 ft: $14,927 - $78,033 per ft

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

• under 30 ft: $1,773 per ft
• 30 - 50 ft: $6,473 per ft
• over 50 ft: $10,091 - $36,889 per ft

If this is too much for you, you could always rent a boat instead. I recommend chartering. You can get great sailboats at great prices. Check out my charter recommendation here .

Cost of buying a sailboat

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.com Q3 2023

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,765 - $78,033 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 sailboats, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

Source: Yachtworld Q3 2023

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $882-$36,889 per foot . Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Prices on Craigslist

The price of used sailboats ranges from roughly $476-$2,098 per foot.

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 20 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: $11,065
• over 30 ft: $87,020

I've calculated the median price , not the average. The median is the price that's most common within the price range. This way the highest and lowest prices don't have as much impact.

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

• under 30 ft: $476 per ft
• over 30 ft: $2,098 per ft

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q3 2023

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist Houston Q3 2023

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist New York Q3 2023

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

Sailboat price development

Compared to our 2022 research, the median price of new sailboats has gone up 22.5% (from $251,000 to $307,500). The average price has gone up 33.6% (from $248,000 to $331,250).

The average price of used sailboats under 30 ft on Craigslist has gone up 30% (from $8,500 to $11,000).

Sailboat prices research archive

You can check our earlier research data here:

• 2022 average sailboat price data
• 2019 average sailboat price data

Catamarans are 60% more expensive

If you dream of owning a catamaran, you should expect to pay roughly 60% more for the boat, and 60% more on annual cost like upkeep and mooring. There are exceptions, of course, and for some boat lengths, new catamarans may be slightly more affordable than a monohull.

I've researched thousands of catamaran listings as well to come up with those numbers. The exact numbers are summarized in my guide on the average cost of buying and owning a catamaran. It's very similar to this article, so if you like this and are curious about catamaran prices as well, I encourage you to check it out.

Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Catamaran (With 4 Examples)

So let's take a quick look at the costs for owning a sailboat.

One-time costs:

• Registration : costs of registration differ per state, but usually run anywhere from $3 - $10 per foot.
• Taxes : differs per state and country. Most governments want you to pay property tax and sales tax. Sales tax is usually about 5%. Property tax varies and is more complex, so I'll leave that up to you to figure out.
• Trailer : $1,000
• Sailing club initiation fee : $1,500 - $4,000

Recurring costs:

• Mooring : $10-15 per foot per year (can be much higher for prime locations)
• Insurance : typically 1.5% of the total value of the boat. So a $50,000 26' cruiser will cost 750 bucks.
• Maintenance : a good rule of thumb is 10% of the boat value. Expect to spend anywhere between $500 - $2,500 per year for small to mid-sized boats.
• Fuel : depends on how much you use the boat and the engine, but on average something between $100 - $150. - Find out how much fuel a sailboat uses in my article here (opens in new tab).
• International License : if you want to sail on international waters, you have to get your ICC (International Certificate of Competence ). Plan on spending anywhere between 400 to 500 dollars.
• Safety equipment : plan on spending anywhere between 150 to 600 bucks for lifejackets, first aid kit, and distress signals.
• Winterize boat : $2,000
• Sailing club: $800 - $1,500

Cost of owning a boat

Maintenance

Your average maintenance cost will be roughly $144 dollars per month for boats under 30', or just under $2,000 per year.

Maintenance involves a lot of hidden costs We took an in-depth look at everything . The result is a comprehensive article that lays it all out for new boat owners. Read all about maintenance costs

Gas engines run for about 1,500 hours, diesel engines run for 5,000. After that, you'll need to change them out.

Most engines will last you about 20 years.

A standard 15HP or 20HP outboard gas engine will cost you about $5,000 - $6,000 and needs replacing every 20 years or so. If you do the work yourself, it's more something like $1,000 - $1,500.

A smaller engine uses less fuel, reducing your total cost You can actually use a pretty small engine for most sailboats. To learn how small (and efficient) you can go, I've written a guide on how to calculate it yourself. Read all about outboard engine size

Replacing the sails and rigging

Most people that own a sailboat will have to replace the sails and rigging at least once in their lifetime. Replacing the mast is uncommon, but if you're unlucky and get demasted, it will need to be fixed. So I've added it to the "be aware this might happen" list - but won't add it to the monthly recurring costs.

If you need to replace the mast and boom, prepare to spend anywhere between $15,000 - $25,000.

I won't go into detail, but I have written a long article about the cost of new sails (opens in new tab). It's a really helpful post (with a formula) if you want to know what to expect.

Good quality cruising sails will need to be replaced every 10 years or so.

The cost of new sails is on average:

• 26' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $1,000 - $2,500.
• 34' Bermuda Sloop rig will cost you about $3,000 - $5,000.

The cost of the new rigging is on average:

• Standing rigging - every 10 years at $4,000
• Running rigging - every 5-10 years at $5,000

Bottom Paint

Your boat will need bottom paint roughly every 2 years (could be longer, but to be safe, let's keep it at two). It's also called antifouling paint because it helps to protect your hull from weeds, barnacles, and so on. Barnacles can slice through your boat's bellow! So you don't want them on there.

On average, it costs about $15 to $20 per foot to get your sailboat hull painted professionally.

For a 26' sailboat, that's just 500 bucks. Money well spent.

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

• Lifejackets have to be replaced every 10 years.
• Flares have to be replaced every 42 months. You could consider buying a LED electric distress light instead, which will last you a lifetime.
• If you carry a life-raft you'll need to replace that every 12 years as well.

Adhering to the minimum safety requirements shouldn't cost you more than 150 - 250 dollars every 5 years. But if you want the good stuff, need more fire extinguishers, plan on spending more like $600. If you want a life raft, that's another $1,500.

To avoid you have to go cheap on your safety gear, I've put it in the budget for $500.

If you want to know exactly what the USCG safety requirements are, including checklists , definitely check out my article here.

Winterizing your boat

Winterization is an often overlooked cost, but it can be one of the largest expenses each year. If you're like me, and not so lucky to live in Florida, you need to winterize your boat.

Failing to winterize it will increase your maintenance cost over time, as the engine wears out more quickly, and your plumbing and equipment will fall apart. Winter storms and ice can damage the hull and mast as well. Learn all about the dangers of failing to winterize here .

It's the best way to protect your boat in wintertime, period.

It consists of two parts:

• Winterizing - costs $500 to $1000 - This is the preparation for winter storage. You flush the cooling system with anti-freeze, and the boat gets wrapped in a shrink wrap cover.
• Winter storage - costs $50 per ft on average

Some other maintenance costs:

• Batteries: deep cycle batteries need replacing every 4-6 years at $600
• Deck hardware: every 20-30 years (bullseyes, tiller, eye straps) at $1,500

Joining a Sailing Club

If you're new to sailing, you might want to consider joining a sailboat club. This might help you to get tips, make friends, and learn in a safe environment. Most clubs also organize races, which are a great way to quickly improve your sailing skills.

But it comes at a cost. Sailing clubs are very expensive.

Initiation fees range anywhere between $1,000 - $4,000. But that's not all.

Then there's an annual fee of $500 - $1,000 per year. And lot's of additional fees: for dining, lockers, etc.

If you're willing to skip Christmas, go for it.

How about making up for some of those losses? There's just no better feeling than earning back all that cash with the same thing that you've spent it on in the first place.

There are lot's of ways to earn a little extra with your boat - if you're willing to put in the effort. Here are a few ideas:

• hire yourself out as the captain of a personalized cruise (for families, newly-weds, groups of colleagues)
• take people to go fishing
• hire your boat out to yacht charter companies
• teach someone to sail
• take photographers, film crews, and artists on tours
• organize dolphin and whale watching tours
• delivery of cargo - some places just can't be reached by car, for example, the city center of Giethoorn (Dutch Venice). So you have a competitive edge here!

Some ideas to save money:

• install solar panels (no more dock power)
• buy a and cheap small boat (kayak or someting) to get to offshore anchorage (which are cheaper)
• shop around for insurance
• get gas at the gas station, not the marina
• do your own maintenance as much as possible
• find a friend with water access to avoid mooring
• use it a lot (prevents stuff from breaking)
• fix things that are broken immediately
• keep your sails out of the sun
• do your own upgrades

For example, convert your winches to self-tailing yourself. I was really surprised by how cheaply this can be done yourself. Read my article on how to do it here (opens in new tab).

How much does it cost to paint a boat hull? Painting a boat hull with antifouling paint will usually cost between $15 - $20 per feet. For example, a 25-foot sailboat will cost roughly $500. A 35-foot sailboat will cost $800 to repaint. You can get premium paints and services, which can quadruple the cost. Typically, a boat needs to be repainted every two years.

Why are used sailboats so cheap? Sailboats require a lot of skill and patience. They can be quite expensive to maintain and to keep in slip. Some people find they can't afford the marina rent, upkeep, and other costs; sometimes they simply don't want to; others don't want to sail anymore. In some cases, expensive and important parts are missing.

How much does it cost to charter a sailboat? The price of a charter depends on location, size of the vessel, crew or bareboat chartering, and so on. However, on average, a bareboat yacht charter will cost anywhere from $5,000 - $10,000 per week. Crewed charters cost anywhere between $10,000 - $15,000 per week. Superyachts may cost up to $150,000 per week.

Thanks to Jean-Pierre Bazard for letting me use his wrapped boat photo under CC BY-SA 3.0

Excellent write up. This is honestly the type of information that’s hard to find as you’re trying to get into sailing. I’m a car guy. People think of car collecting like Jay Leno, but it can be done cheaply. I get the impression sailing is the same way.

Shawn Buckles

Hi Stephen, thanks a lot for your kind words, really appreciate it! It really is kind of the same, it’s all about how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. As with anything, lots can be achieved with energy and attention.

Thanks again.

Serious question. Why are you buying a trailer for a 40 ft yacht? That doesn’t even make sense.

Hi Christian, thanks for the remark. 40 ft boat trailers do actually exist, although I agree that most people probably won’t trailer a 40 ft yacht.

Thank a lot for the very useful information„ now you caused me to start thinking why don’t I start sailing lessons to do round the world in a sail boat ( instead of an aircraft)

Hello Hatem, you’re very welcome. Smooth sailing, or flying.

Hi, I am not familiar with boats. My boss just asked me to find a nice boat for him. Thank you for this informative post, this helps me so much. By the way, I already found a site selling yachts here in the Philippines, here’s the link https://rayomarine.com Do you have any suggestion with brand and boat type. Thank you! More power!

Very good information, but I am having a hard time matching these number here in Southern California. Cheapest slip I found so for is $375/month, on a very run down and far from the ocean marina. At the harbor that I want, the cheapest I found is $800/month. Even if I was given a boat for free, just keeping it in place would cost me almost 10k/year

Excellent writeup, Shawn! Thank you very much for all your hard work and I look forward to reading your other articles on the subject.

Great info! We are in the market for our first sailboat and this answered many of our questions. Although I do agree with Rafael that slip prices in Southern California our much higher than what you listed. The marina we like will run about $1000 a month.

Thank you for your artical…a LOT of useful information included in it sir. I have been thinking about buying one for two years now, since I moved to a harbor town near where I grew up. We always had motor boats when I was young. But, I always loved sailing MUCH much more! I love the quiet of it, and always something to do, rather than just sit, drive, gas it up, dock, repeat. Laugh!! It’s about a ten min walk to the marina from here..and I have nothing but time. However my health is pretty bad. I just don’t know if I could handle it all alone. I’m thinking maybe a 25-30 foot cruiser. Thanks again sir!! I look forward to reading your other articles. Sincerely, Gary Heaton Olcott, Ny

Thanks a million! First time I come across an article that complete and with so much effort. For people thinking about buying a boat the info you provide is priceless.

John Callahan

Good information, but any article on prices should have a date associated with it. I see no indication of when this article was posted.

Thank you so much for this well done article. We’re looking at getting a boat and you’ve answered questions we didn’t even know we had.

Awesome article good job i am from Slovenia and thinking about buyng sailboat and sail for 6 monhs per year.I hawe bean looking on Holland sites too buy one can i maybe find auctions too buy a sailingboat i bawe wach Troswijk but they do t hawe any up ther?

Many of the costs quoted look very low to me, especially in the first article. Was this written a long time ago?

Excellent article. Am wondering though how do I dispose of a used boat if I get tired of it and can’t sell it or possibly run it aground. Maybe a 40 ft sloop?

Chris Kenny

Thanks for this infor.

Peace sailing.

Benjamin Sklar

Extremely helpful and interesting article! Thank you!

John Wallace

This is the most accurate information I have ever seen about boat ownership costs.

Many thanks!!!!

Shiela Shapcott

Hey, if you are looking for more resources, check out my website <a href=” https://139.xg4ken.com/media/redir.php?prof=407&amp;camp=3552&amp;affcode=kw35&amp;k_inner_url_encoded=1&amp;url=http://article-city.com/&quot;&gt;Article City</a> as I cover topics about SEO. By the way, you have impressive design and layout, plus interesting content, you deserve a high five!

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Friendship 65

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Click to enlarge, principal dimensions.

The Friendship Yacht Company remains true to its mission to build innovative designs to the highest quality and value with the introduction of the Friendship 65 sloop.

The hull configuration of The Friendship 65 represents an evolution of the highly successful keel / centerboard hull forms refined by Ted Fontaine. The 65 is similar to the Friendship 53 and 75 in that this design has ample beam which optimizes the form stability. When combined with the flared bulb keel, the design is capable of carrying a tall and powerful sail plan and thereby maximizing sailing performance. The forward underwater sections of the 65 incorporate a slightly V-shaped section to provide a smooth entry in difficult seas. This hull shape is also proven to provide additional lift which is further enhanced by the deep retracting centerboard making the 65 a proven sailing machine.

The 65’s low wetted surface hull form minimizes drag while at the same time providing substantial interior volume, enabling fast yet comfortable passages with proven sea kindly motion. Another benefit is the Friendship 65’s shallow draft keel / centerboard design and her ability to access shallow water anchorages that most yachts of her size cannot.

The design of the Friendship 65 is unique in that the concept of the aft cockpit / pilothouse design is born from one particular customer’s request for complete protection and comfort for the anticipated long distance offshore passages expected of this design. Seaworthiness, sailing performance and comfort offshore were the dictating mandates when developing this yacht. The Friendship 65 is unique in that she possesses the interior accommodations normally found only on larger center cockpit designs. 

The goal was to create a design that maintained the common elements of an aft cockpit yacht such as the low, secure aft cockpit that allows for a drier and more secure location for sailing than the traditional center cockpit designs. The cockpit is positioned aft of the fully enclosed pilothouse. The watertight and secure pilothouse enables full navigation and operating from inside with 360 degree unobstructed visibility. The pilothouse is both an extension of the sailing cockpit as it is an expansion of the interior arrangement. A beautifully crafted dining table featuring stained walnut inlay and soft upholstered settees provide a luxurious ambiance to this versatile yet functional arrangement.

Below decks, the spacious living accommodations are cleverly separated from the open pilothouse by the galley and lower salon.  Rich, warm, satin finished raised panel mahogany joinery, complete with detailed bull nose fiddle edges throughout, provides a classic yet serene refuge from the elements above. 

Aft and under the pilothouse are two staterooms port and starboard, each fit with two berths designated for crew or guests. The port side aft cabin is so commodious it could even be considered the master cabin, complete with ensuite facilities including private shower and large locker space.  To starboard and forward of the crew cabin / work space there is a large galley, optimized as a full service area with ample storage and appliances featuring a sea kindly wrap-around counter, further enhancing the seaworthiness of the design as well as reinforcing the open and airy atmosphere down below. 

By maintaining the open ceiling above the galley, the so-called “split level” pilothouse / salon area provides a great level of openness, bringing in light to the lower arrangement from the windshield above, a design element normally found on Fontaine’s much larger designs which feature complementary sight lines between the upper pilothouse and lower salon.

The below deck accommodation of the Friendship 65 was developed with several alternative arrangements in mind, the final layout to be customized to each owner’s specific needs, be it a centerline master cabin, symmetrical upper / lower guest cabins or a private VIP cabin with a smaller side cabin for paid crew, all of which can be built with private en suite facilities.

Having satisfied the owner’s interior desires, Fontaine Design Group put a priority on proper space for housing and servicing the 250 HP Lugger main engine, 16 kW Northern Lights generator, as well as all of the service pumps, hydraulic, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems.  Included in the design is a dedicated full head room engine room/service area with a washer/dryer and convertible work bench.  This large engine room provides easy access to all systems and is accessed through the crew cabin, cockpit hatches and guest cabin.

The sailing systems for the new 65 will emulate the same single handed performance as all of the previous Friendship designs: electric winches are all located within arm’s reach of the helmsman, bow thruster and mainsheet control buttons and genoa furling controls are at the feet of the helmsman providing easy hands free operation while underway. The tall carbon fiber mast is equipped with an in boom mainsail furling system, hydraulically operated to further enhance the simplicity and ease of shorthanded sailing. The composite-built 65 will be constructed of epoxy resin, with a complete internal structure reinforced with carbon fiber where needed and composite structural bulkheads all in compliance with the code of practice as outlined by American Bureau of Shipping (ABS).  The systems are designed in accordance with the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards.

www.friendshipyachtcompany.com Copyright © 2020 Friendship Yacht Company

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Used Yachts for Sale Between 60' and 65'

Finding used yachts between 60 and 65 feet that fit your budget, your boating requirements, and are within a reasonable distance can be a daunting task with so many options on the market. The team at SI Yachts has been helping boaters find the perfect vessel since 1964 and keeping them on the water through our industry-leading service team. Call our main office today at 1-718-984-7676 and we'll connect you with the right sales professional for the type of boat, brand, or model you are searching to find.

SI Yachts is also the new boat dealer for Viking Yachts, Valhalla Boatworks, Princess Yachts, Prestige Yachts, Absolute Yachts, and HCB Yachts. We can also take your existing boat in on trade towards the purchase of a new boat. Our Diamond Listing Yacht Brokerage services include the most comprehensive marketing plan found anywhere in the industry. Let the team at SI Yachts help you into the right 60 to 65 foot boat or yacht of your dreams.

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A superb sub 70 foot ocean sailboat offering versatile luxury living space and impeccable sailing performance

The Oyster 675. Adventure awaits.

Capable of taking you anywhere in the world effortlessly – sail this ocean sailboat shorthanded, with family and friends, or with a crew.

Provisioned for adventure

This 70 foot sailboat’s mighty hull offers luxury living space for eight friends, family or crew and all the stowage and tank capacity you need for long-distance adventures.

Sail with ease

Automated push-button sailing technology delivers effortless shorthanded sailing, and impeccable performance for fast, exhilarating passage-making on this 70 foot sailboat.

Space to enjoy

The Oyster 675 offers a variety of entertaining spaces, with a generous cockpit, open fore and aft decks, and a large welcoming saloon which connects seamlessly to the well-appointed u-shaped galley.

QUICK LINKS

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LOCAL EXPERTISE

For new yacht sales and our service operation in the Americas, visit our offices in the heart of the US East coast sailing scene, Newport, Rhode Island. We would be delighted to help.

The Oyster 675 is the centrepiece of the Oyster fleet, featuring iconic Oyster styling and a powerful hull form with twin rudders and extended transom option.

Specified for performance and adventure

The oyster 675 is a beautifully proportioned 70 foot sailboat with a huge hull volume that makes her extremely versatile, with a wide variety of customised build options..

Well provisioned as an ocean sailboat, with large tankage, ample space above and below decks and plenty of stowage, including a vast, full-width lazarette. The spacious and sheltered cockpit, with space for eight features audio and a built-in refrigerator. Choose from the standard or optional extended transom, both of which can accommodate a telescopic passerelle along with a hydraulic bathing platform for easy access into the water and dinghy.

Unlike a production 70 foot yacht for sale, the Oyster 675 is a true bluewater adventure machine, designed and built to our meticulous and renowned build quality.

The knowledge, experience and skill of Humphreys’ naval architects, combined with Oyster’s in-house design studio and our craftspeople ensure complete reassurance and confidence at sea. The excellent stability is further enhanced by the intelligent placement of utilities throughout the hull form.

Her hull and deck are Lloyd’s Register certified. Constructed using the highest quality materials, her reinforced, monolithic composite hull structure offers superior strength, stiffness and weight optimisation. With further reinforcement in the slam zones and keel area, she is strong, safe and robust, built to adapt to any conditions, from the calm waters of the Mediterranean to challenging ocean passages. With her inspiring sailing capability and large sail locker for downwind sails, it should come as no surprise owners consider her the best 70 foot sailboat for long-distance bluewater adventures.

The Oyster 675 is a joy to sail shorthanded or with a crew. Her powerful 70 foot twin rudder hull form makes sailing a pure pleasure.

Despite her substantial displacement, the Oyster 675 is responsive and fast-moving, delivering consistently fast passage-making speed. Our design team have gone to extreme lengths to consider every aspect of the sailing experience to make her equally suited to shorthanded sailing or cruising with a full crew. When manoeuvring in tight spots, the retractable bow and stern thrusters, fitted as standard, provide complete control.

The ergonomically designed twin helm stations feature large helm seats with backrests, grab handles and sunken footwells for protection if conditions turn rough. She features a hydraulic push-button, in-mast furling and headsail furling is set up as standard. All navigation and automated sailing controls are located on the twin helm stations, with winches positioned within easy reach.

Designed to make life aboard relaxed and comfortable on extended passages, every convenience is incorporated into your customised interior design.

Designed for the way you live

The oyster 675 interiors can be customised to accommodate a variety of family, friends and crew..

Interior layouts include three double ensuite guest cabins, with a generous owner’s cabin with ensuites positioned fore or aft. Another option offers two double ensuite guest cabins and a separate crew cabin.

Balancing practicality and style the volume below deck accommodates every comfort. Notable features include standing-height ceilings, full-sized appliances in the galley, air conditioning and Oysters’ proprietary mood lighting system. The light and spacious saloon is naturally ventilated through the forward-opening saloon windows. The generous cabins feature quality deep mattresses, mirrors, island berths, cedar-lined wardrobes, and plenty of stowage and the ensuite heads have seamless walk-in shower trays and quiet flush toilets. As a result, the Oyster 675 offers a contemporary, luxurious home-from-home living space.

Below decks, this 70 foot yacht is designed for effortless and enjoyable living.

Considered design and space planning offers stylish, contemporary living spaces, proudly crafted and hand-finished in tried and trusted materials, including hand-selected hardwoods in oak or walnut.

The wide companionway and intuitively placed grab handles hint at considered practicality and safety throughout the Oyster 675. The large, welcoming saloon has wraparound windows above and triple Seascape windows in the hull, making it feel light and spacious, with magnificent panoramic views. The u-shaped galley opens onto the saloon, making it an integral part of this relaxed social space. Fully equipped, it has room for a large fridge freezer, microwave, cooker and built-in extractor fan. The generous saloon table seats eight comfortably and is perfect for gatherings of friends, family and crew.

Reflecting its long-distance capabilities, the latest technology is key to the Oyster 675’s versatility, comfort and work aboard potential.

The generous navigation station doubles as the ideal work-aboard space and technology hub, with an optional PC, lift-top large desk, plotter, VHF radio, power management, generator control, switchboard, and plenty of power sockets. It is also home to the Oyster Command™ system. This intuitive digital switching system connects everything from entertainment, utilities and lighting to monitoring systems. It can also be accessed from the helm station and optional additional touchscreens fitted in cabins.

There are a variety of infotainment and connectivity options available to meet every preference and to keep the yacht connected wherever she is in the world.

ENTRIES OPEN

Embark on the sailing adventure of a lifetime. entries are now open for the oyster world rally 2028-29.

The joy of Oyster ownership

There is more than just pride on offer when it comes to owning an Oyster 675. Every new Oyster comes with a comprehensive warranty, personalised care, access to our global service network, unrivalled support, life-changing experiences and so much more.

On an Oyster the world is yours.

OYSTER OWNERSHIP

Ownership benefits rarely experienced in marine

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Specifications & features

Lloyd’s Register certified hull and deck moulding

675 hulls and deck mouldings meet EU RCDII standards, with strength, integrity and build quality also certified by Lloyd’s Register.

Hydraulic in-mast and headsail furling

Push-button Seldén hydraulic headsail furling and in-mast mainsail furling, combined with the swept-back rig, make precision control and shorthanded sailing possible.

Retractable hydraulic bow and stern thrusters

Powerful Sleipner Sidepower retractable bow and stern thrusters enable easy, close-quarters manoeuvring.

Hand-built oak & walnut interior

Hand-crafted joinery runs throughout the interiors, in beautiful hand-selected oak timber with a satin finish varnish. Crown cut, random width, and walnut veneered boards create solid cabin soles, with soft carpets enhancing the luxurious feel of the owner and guest cabins.

The Onan 11kw 4-cylinder diesel generator is more than capable of running all your 240v appliances. Almost silent in operation, it is easy to operate and monitor from the control panel in the navigation station.

Seascape windows

The interior is beautifully lit throughout, with two sets of Seascape windows in the saloon and two in the owner’s cabin with Oceanair manual blinds for privacy when moored in a marina.

Air conditioning

Keep the interior at the perfect temperature with air conditioning that cools and heats. Controls in each cabin provide guests with the ability to adjust temperature based on personal requirements. The system runs efficiently from the generator or a 230v dockside supply.

Interior layout configuration

The Oyster 675 offers two layouts to suit requirements, but the volume provides the opportunity for further customisation. With all three cabin configurations, there is a useful bunk room with two bunks situated amidships on the starboard side.

Wood options

In addition to the standard oak interior, hand-crafted maple, cherry or walnut woods can be selected to add a timeless feel to a contemporary Oyster interior.

Bathing platform

The generous, hydraulic-operated bathing platform, laid with teak decking and a drop-in stainless-steel ladder, offers easy access to the water. The bumper bar posts allow safe docking for the tender.

Extended transom

Enjoy the additional storage space in the full-width lazarette – a hidden benefit of the extra space created on the aft deck with our extended transom option.

Hull colours

Make the Oyster 675 your own with a choice of hull, mast and sail colours to suit your personal taste. You can also specify creative vinyl wrap and paint options to make an instantly recognisable look.

Hydraulic passerelle

The retractable hydraulic Besenzoni 2.7m passerelle is neatly hidden in the transom. Sleek and stylish, it has a teak footboard and a painted or polished stainless-steel finish. Operate from the cockpit, with a remote control or even from your smartphone.

Autumn 2026

Plans and interior layouts.

Colour inspiration

The Oyster 675

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Join us at our boat shows and private views to see our stunning bluewater cruisers

OYSTER WORLD RALLY 2028-29

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Personalised care, unforgettable experiences and lifelong yacht support

The Oyster Fleet

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A liveaboard 60 foot bluewater cruiser, offering effortless shorthanded capability.

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OYSTER WORLD RALLY

Entries for the Oyster World Rally 2028-29 are now open. Embark on the sailing adventure of a lifetime

The new 565 Series II

The pursuit of perfection continues

Oyster Charter

Experience exhilarating sailing, luxury and style on an Oyster charter

New 565 Series II

LUXURY CHARTER

Experience exhilarating sailing, luxury and style on an oyster charter. personal, exclusive and uniquely oyster.

Oyster 825 iSNL

Discover this exceptional late model 825 with a unbeatable spec and a bespoke layout.

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Oyster world rally.

Follow the Oyster World Rally 2024-25 fleet live

Winner of European Yacht of the Year 2023. She is a new breed of luxury 50 foot yacht, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A magnificent, award-winning sub 60 foot sailing yacht, offering luxurious living space and outstanding shorthanded sailing capability.

A beautifully proportioned 60 foot, luxury liveaboard bluewater cruiser, offering effortless shorthanded sailing capability.

A superb sub 70 foot ocean sailboat offering versatile luxury living space and impeccable sailing performance.

An inspired 75 foot yacht, offering infinite configuration options, generous luxury living space and flexible crew quarters.

Oyster 885SII

The remarkable, iconic 90 foot sailboat, perfect for relaxed luxury voyages of discovery.

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• ON THE HORIZON
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GT 65 Carolina

GT65 CAROLINA

The next generation of the gt series.

The Hatteras GT65 Carolina presents a new design direction reminiscent of Knit Wits, the original Carolina-built boat. The profile features a stepped-back bridge, new window design, and hull-side vents. Beyond style, the GT65 is designed using the latest technology to ensure superior performance and seaworthiness.    Most importantly, Hatteras clients work with our designers to build in the features important to them, so your GT65 Carolina will be designed, engineered, and crafted specifically for you.

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Hatteras Yachts - A Legacy of Innovation

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110 North Glenburnie Road New Bern, NC 28560

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• How Much Does It Cost to Buy & Own a Boat? A Comprehensive Owner’s Guide

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Six Reasons to Rent Instead of Buying a Boat

How to Choose the Right Boat - Getmyboat Guide

Finding the Right Fishing Boat for You

There's a whole lot more to consider than just the purchase price. Here's everything you need to know as you consider the costs of boat ownership.

Owning a boat can provide you with exciting adventures and lasting memories. If you love spending your holidays on the water fishing, cruising, or touring with your family, owning a boat should be on your bucket list. Unlike a rental boat, boat ownership allows you to enjoy a journey whenever you like, with no time limits.

Setting aside the thrill of owning a boat for a moment, can you afford one?

When buying a boat, it’s not only the sales price that counts. You must also consider the average cost of boat ownership, such as fuel, maintenance, insurance coverage, and storage. It would help if you researched all the options before diving into such an investment.

This guide will give you all the information you need to own a boat. Let’s start with some of the things to keep in mind before purchasing a boat.

Table of Contents

Purchase price vs. ongoing costs, are boats a good investment, can i afford a boat, used vs. new boat prices, different boat types & sizes, the best value boats for your money, marinas and storage, equipment & accessories, licenses and education, maintenance costs, the bottom line.

The first thing that comes to mind when considering owning a boat is, obviously, the purchase price — how much are you going to have to pay upfront to buy the boat of your dreams? By making online price comparisons and asking around, you probably already have a rough idea of how much your dream boat costs.

The purchase price of a boat depends on many factors, most significantly the size of the boat, and the type of boat — which can vary drastically depending on whether you want something for the occasional weekend family day on the water, multi-day boat trips, something suitable for large parties, a small and simple cruiser for fishing, or any number of other boat types .

The purchase price can also vary greatly depending on the boat's age and condition. Buying a new boat can range from $500 to $500 million though looking at used boats can offer considerable savings and might enable you to set aside more cash for the inevitable ongoing costs you'll face in the future.

And of course, these prices are highly variable depending on the specific boat features and construction, but the biggest price jumps come when comparing entirely different styles of boat. For some rough ballpark examples, a brand-new cabin-free motorized fishing boat can easily cost up to $35,000, whereas a yacht will run you closer to $250,000 for a used one to $500,000 for a brand-new one.

But, is that purchase price all you need to consider?

Unfortunately, no, it's not. Owning a boat doesn’t end with paying the purchase price . You also have to consider the ongoing expenses, which can cost even more than the initial boat price in the long term. A simple thing such as trailering a boat can add significantly to your ownership cost, depending on how often you do it.

Some additional expenses that come with owning a boat include:

• Maintenance costs
• Storage costs
• Fuel expenses
• Insurance coverage
• Equipment and accessories
• Taxes, title, and registration
• Boat trailing expenses

A boat is a major life purchase, and even if you're not planning to use it for any commercial purposes, it could be considered an investment — and a significant one. But, is it a good investment?

To be frank, no, not really. Many financial experts don’t consider a boat a sound investment because of the ongoing costs of maintaining it. Also, since it is a depreciating asset , many do not view it as a wise purchase because you’ll spend more to own it in the long run. The specifics and calculus of depreciation are complex, and it's worth diving into some of the thorough reports that you can find online — you can try using a boat depreciation calculator , or studying the depreciation of specific boat types .

But wait! Owning a boat is about a lot more than just the financial side of it. If boating is your life's joy and a major part of your lifestyle, overall happiness, and how you like to spend your time, that's a very significant emotional element to weigh against the more cold and unforgiving financial numbers. And consider the other values a boat can bring to your life:

• Personal fun: Some people can’t get enough of water adventures. You need a boat if you love being surrounded by blue skies and water. When personal enjoyment with family and friends gives you that adrenaline rush, no dollar amount can exceed such experiences.
• Commercial value: Owning a boat can provide you with a side income. When you’re not using it for a family adventure, consider renting out your boat for an attractive cost to another family. If you take advantage of the rental feature , you can also offer water tours, fishing, or sporting activities and earn some extra money.
• Resale value: While you will unquestionably take a big hit in depreciation to some degree, you can reduce it somewhat by taking excellent care of your boat and keeping it well maintained. And while you should never expect to be able to recoup all of what you spent on your boat purchase, your boat is still an asset with some resale value, unlike a consumable good.

It's natural to dream, but think carefully: are you really in a good financial position to turn your dream of owning a boat into reality? When you think about the purchase price of a boat and all the expenses of owning one, can you still afford it?

Of course, you need a solid budget before making this huge investment. Aside from the purchase price, list the monthly expenses for repairs, maintenance, insurance, storage, equipment, and accessories. Budget for a certain percentage, such as 20% of the value, to cover these expenses.

Also, think about the face value of your boat. More expensive boats tend to cost more on storage, maintenance, and gas than cheaper ones. If you buy a luxury boat, you’re also buying the life that comes with owning one.

To figure out whether you can afford a boat or not, you have to think about the following factors:

• Your credit score: If you’re securing financing for a boat, you must consider your credit score to know how much you qualify for. If you have a high credit score, you’ll qualify for higher financing and pay a very low-interest rate. A score of 690 or higher will likely get you the best deal.
• Consider your DTI: Your debt-to-income ratio will play another role in determining whether you can afford a boat. To calculate your DTI, add your monthly debt payments and divide them by your gross income. If you get anything less than 43%, you stand a good chance of being approved for a loan to buy your dream boat.
• Your budget: How much you plan on the purchase price for a boat and the ongoing costs is important in determining if you can afford it. Don’t go above your budget just because you can afford it. Sticking to your budget will save you from the looming stress of owning a boat.

Generally, affording a boat means buying and maintaining one well without affecting your living expenses. Consider the initial purchase price, financing implications, and the expenses of keeping the boat on the water. If you find it hard to afford one after reviewing these factors, give yourself more time.

The Upfront Cost

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of buying a boat is the upfront cost. Other things, such as maintenance and fuel, tend to come later. So, what is the upfront cost of owning a boat? And why are boats so expensive?

A less expensive $150 floating boat will do for modest near-the-shore adventures. For a luxury cruise sure to turn heads, budget for thousands of dollars in upfront costs.

The upfront cost of a boat will depend on numerous factors, such as the brand, type, size, and extra features. For example, if you plan to purchase a luxury boat with all the amenities that money can buy, you’ll probably have to pay for an arm and a leg to get it.

You can control the price depending on your primary purpose of using the boat. For instance, you won’t want to spend money on all the technology and luxury amenities to enjoy a simple cruise on a holiday weekend. You can save on various accessories, such as lights and entertainment, if you only spend a short time on the water.

Some of the factors to keep in mind when deciding the upfront cost of purchasing a boat include:

• Brand: Boats are available in different brands, affecting their prices. The cost of a small boat, 6-10 feet, can cost anywhere from $500 to $800. If you’re looking for brand-name superyachts, prepare to spend millions of dollars from the start.
• Style: If you care much about the style of your boat, recognize that the most stylish ones will cost more. Higher-end boats will cost more than less elegant ones.
• Size: If you want a bigger boat for your family and friends, prepare to pay more than you would for a simple one that accommodates three to five people. Any boat over 12 feet will need a bigger engine, which means a higher purchase price.

There’s a huge price difference between used and new boats. Buying a new boat can be more expensive than buying a used one of the same type. Of course, the condition of the used boat will also factor into the price difference versus a new one. A second-hand boat that has only been running for two years will be more expensive than one that has been around for more than five years.

New boats come with luxury features and the latest technologies. They are generally immaculate because they’ve not experienced any wear and tear. The engine is still at maximum working capacity, and other amenities have not been touched. All the shine, beauty, and glamor are much more expensive.

Aside from the higher price, new boats tend to depreciate faster. In the first year of using your new boat, it will depreciate at about 10% and then reduce to around 8% to 6% per year in the subsequent years.

Even though buying a used boat comes with some added risks, used boats are much less expensive than new ones. You can find a good deal on a used boat on classifieds websites like Craigslist, BoatTrader.com, and Facebook Marketplace. Frequently, you can buy a good used boat for less than 50% of the cost of a new one.

Compared to new boats, used boats depreciate at a much slower pace. A used boat has already experienced much depreciation and tends to retain its value more than a new one.

The risk of buying a second-hand boat can include higher maintenance costs. Unless it is well-maintained, you risk buying a boat with pre-existing issues, from appearance and functionality to safety. Buying a new one guarantees peace of mind that you won’t get if you opt for a used one.

Another significant factor determining how much upfront you’ll pay for a boat is its type and size. Boats come in different sizes and types; some might be wildly out of your budget range, and others quite affordable.

Typically, boats are classed by length:

• Class A : 16 feet or under
• Class 1: 16–26 feet
• Class 2: 26–40 feet
• Class 3: 40–65 feet

Many factors will determine the boat size most suited for you, including previous boating experience, storage space, activity, docking space, and budget.

Once you decide on the size, the type of boat you choose is another factor that drives the purchase price. The most common types of boats include:

• Pontoon boats: Many owners start with a pontoon boat to enjoy water adventures. These boats are perfect for fishing or just traveling in the water. They’re not good for water sports because they are very slow. Pontoon boats cost between $10,000-$80,000.
• Sailboats: A sailboat is another common type used for recreational activities such as cruising and racing. These boats are very economical, as you can use the sails and not fuel. You can get a quality sailboat for as low as $5,000.
• Yachts: A yacht is usually associated with luxury and prestige. Yachts have high-end facilities and entertainment features, allowing people to live comfortably inside for lengths at a time. All this luxury does come at a price. A small-sized yacht can cost a whopping $500,000.
• Fishing boats: Buying a fishing boat will ensure you enjoy unlimited fishing adventures. They tend to have a small seating area with an open deck space for storing caught fish. A new aluminum fishing boat can start at $25,000, while a fiberglass boat can range from $32,000-$35,000.
• Speedboats: Speedboats, also known as motorboats, are equipped with engines. Because of its powerful engine, a speedboat tends to go very fast but consumes a lot of fuel. You can get a new speedboat for $30,000-$75,000.
• Cabin cruisers: Cabin cruisers are also packed with all the best features money can buy. They work like mobile mini vacation homes, perfect for family adventures. A new cabin cruiser starts at about $100K and ranges to $500K.

To determine the best value for your money, return to the question, “Can you afford a boat?” Having looked at various boat prices, you can see that some boats are quite affordable, but others are expensive. But no matter how cheap or expensive a boat is, you must still consider the intended use.

For example, you can’t buy a fishing boat for racing. So, even if a fishing boat is cheaper than a speedboat, you’ll still go for the latter because it will fulfill the intended purpose. You won’t get value for your money if you’re buying a boat you won’t use.

So, the best value for your money is one that fulfills its intended purpose. For instance, it won’t matter if you pay a hefty price for a cabin cruiser or a yacht as long as you spend a wonderful vacation with your loved ones onboard. So, when choosing the right boat , consider how it will serve you before considering its monetary value.

The Ongoing Costs

Whether buying a new or a used boat, you must look beyond the upfront costs. Keeping the boat active and ensuring it serves you well come at a cost. Knowing all the expenditures of owning a boat will help you devise a better plan so that these expenses won’t catch you off guard.

So, before buying your dream boat, consider the following ongoing expenses.

Where will you keep your boat when it’s not on the water? If you plan to store it at a marina, you’ll have monthly fees for the storage. Marina costs vary, including indoor or outdoor storage, the storage period, and other services such as cleaning and security.

Storing your boat can range from a few hundred dollars to more than a thousand dollars monthly. For instance, storing your boat at a privately-owned storage facility might cost less than mooring it at a municipal or private marina. Additional fees with boat storage include utility fees, maintenance fees, car parking fees, and live aboard fees.

How much you spend on fuel will depend on a few things: your type of boat, how often you use it, and the specific type of fuel you need. A sailboat will obviously be much more economical regarding fuel, since it can run primarily on wind power. On the other hand, a speedboat will tend to have additional costs because it consumes more fuel to power the engine.

You might also spend more on boat fuel if you carry a huge load or encounter unfavorable sea conditions. And remember that fuel prices often fluctuate with the current economic situation, so plan your boating trips accordingly.

Apart from the fuel, you’ll also have to pay for other operational expenses such as oil, pumps, lights, batteries, and specialized equipment. One thing you can do to reduce fuel costs is to use a fuel consumption gauge. Also, consider buying newer model boats designed for better fuel efficiency.

To take your boat out on the water, you’ll likely equip it with different accessories. Some accessories are for your own use, while others are essential for running the boat.

The good news is that some of these accessories are one-time expenses. However, you must factor them in because they contribute significantly to overall boat costs.

Some accessories and equipment to consider for your boat include:

• Lifejackets
• Fishing tackle
• Watersports equipment
• First aid kits
• Personal locator beacons
• Marina radio
• EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon)
• Extra fishing rod holders
• Fire extinguishers
• Electronics
• Visual distress signal
• Sound-producing device
• Boat cushions
• Tackle storage

Of course, the accessories you need depend on the boat type, your purpose for using the boat, and how long you will spend on the water. Your needs also depend on the season, so you might only need some things at a time. Budget for the equipment as you need it, and treat your boat to an accessory upgrade occasionally.

A boat operator license and a boater’s safety education course are mandatory in many states. When boaters are educated on operating a boat and safety measures, they’ll be less likely to get into an accident on the water.

The weather conditions can change at any time, and it might be difficult to control the boat if you don't have the training you gain from taking safety courses. These courses remind boaters about safety rules, operational laws, and general boating knowledge.

Every state has specific boater education requirements that you should review. Don’t just take the course because it’s a requirement; consider the benefits. You can select online or in-person classes for free or for a small instructional fee.

After training, you’ll also need to pay title fees and registration. Your boat registration is the identification number on its bow. Getting your boat registration and title varies from state to state, so look into your state's requirements. Registration and title costs range between $20 to more than $200, depending on the vessel's type, size, and purpose.

Whether you buy a used or new boat, you have to maintain it well to keep it in good condition and retain its resale value. Boat maintenance includes cleaning, waxing, engine tune-ups, and painting. You might also have to deal with repairs, such as electrical and plumbing issues.

Yearly boat maintenance can cost about 5% to 10% of the boat's total value. The cost might be less or more depending on factors such as frequency of use, boat age, and weather conditions. You can also handle some maintenance issues yourself to save money.

Remember that a new boat will cost less to repair than a used one. However, as the boat ages, it will depreciate and require more maintenance. Also, if you use your boat in freshwater, you’ll save more on maintenance and cleaning than if you use it in salt water.

You need to insure your boat against unexpected occurrences, such as an accident or damage. The right coverage will give you peace of mind whenever you are out on the water or have your boat in a storage facility.

The costs of insuring your boat also depend on several factors, such as the type, size, and frequency of use. Other factors influencing the cost include add-ons such as towing, salvage, docking, and storm coverage.

Boat insurance coverage varies from state to state and with the insurance company you choose to work with. Conduct extensive research and read reviews before choosing an insurer for your boat. Once you identify one, let them give you a quote so that you can estimate your annual premiums and if they fit into your budget.

So, What's the Total Cost?

Buying a boat will be expensive or cheap, depending on what you want and how prepared you are. It’s important to research the purchase of various boat types and the ongoing costs before you make the bold step.

You might pay twice the actual boat price if you calculate annual fuel costs, maintenance, storage, repair, accessories, and more. For example, if you bought a yacht for $250,000, the ongoing costs might add up to $500,000 annually.

Remember, this figure includes one-time costs such as registration, training, and equipment. The amount might not be the same for subsequent years since you won’t have to register your boat again or take certain educational courses.

The total investment also depends on your lifestyle. Apart from mandatory costs, other expenses accompany spending time on the water. These include food, drinks and ice, a tour guide, and other things to make your boat adventure enjoyable. Consider all the factors of owning a boat and fit them to your situation, then calculate your total cost.

Given the fun and memories that owning a boat brings to the family, buying a boat can be a good ‘ROE’ - Return on Emotions. However, if you don’t prepare for all the expenses of owning a boat, you might not enjoy it in the long run. You must research and understand all the costs and aspects of a boating lifestyle.

Remember, you’re not just buying a boat; you're buying the luxury of owning one. You can only enjoy your boat when you’re not stressing about the finances of owning it.

Boat Buying FAQs

How do I determine the cost of a boat?

Boat prices vary by brand, size, and type. You also look beyond the purchase price for ongoing maintenance, fuel, storage, and insurance costs.

Why do boats consume so much fuel?

Boats run on water instead of land, consuming more fuel than cars. Many forces drag it behind, such as wind resistance, waves, and aerodynamics, which contribute to more fuel consumption.

How long does a new boat last?

A new boat can last between 5-50 years. Factors affecting a boat’s lifespan include material (wood, aluminum, or fiberglass), frequency of use, and maintenance.

What is the most expensive type of boat?

A yacht and a cabin cruiser are the most expensive boats, ranging from $500,000 to millions.

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Blue Coast 65 Sailing Catamaran

The Blue Coast 65 is a new, modern, fast and luxurious performance sailing catamaran for a smaller crew who want to enjoy worldwide cruising on all oceans.

Description

A dynamic "full-custom" design by our Naval Architect Jean-Jacques Coste, who has been recognized worldwide for his fast sailing performance multihull yachts for many years.

2 half-height helm stations provide sheltered positions. In bad weather, the yacht can be steered from the inside steering position in the saloon.

On the spacious flybridge with generous sunbathing areas and a dining area you can enjoy the sun, the steering positions can also be placed there as an option.

The very spacious main deck offers an enormously large, comfortable living area:

The forward cockpit area is directly connected to the saloon with a watertight door, the perfect place to find peace in port. 

The saloon with a comfortable lounge area and a fully equipped kitchen in a U-shape is a great place to be, with a bar counter in the middle with a retractable TV.

The shaded rear terrace is larger than the saloon and is probably the most popular place to dine, relax, welcome guests and friends. An outdoor kitchen can also be accommodated there.

On the cabin deck, a spacious master suite with bath and shower, a crew or single cabin that can alternatively be set up as an office or walk-in wardrobe, 2 guest cabins and a workshop offer a high level of comfort.

The forward storage compartments provide space for the washing machine, supplies, sails and equipment.

The layout of the flybridge, main and cabin decks can also be customized to suit your requirements.

Available with traditional diesel engines or with the innovative electric hybrid system "Green ECO Power".

Design according to your ideas

The design of the BLUE COAST 65 can be adapted to your ideas as you desire in terms of number and layout of cabins, interior fittings and furnishings.

Manufacturing your Yacht

Under the constant supervision of Catamaris ®  and Jean-Jacques Coste, your BLUE COAST 65 catamaran will be built in a certified shipyard in Europe with many years of experience in successfully manufacturing of numerous luxury yachts and multihulls.

Technical Specifications

Layouts of Blue Coast 65

Principal Characteristics & Technical Specifications

65 SPORT YACHT HIGHLIGHTS

PANORAMIC VIEWS

COMPOSITE MATERIALS

SUNSEEKER SKYHELM™

AFT COCKPIT ARRANGEMENTS

SUNSEEKER HULL SHAPE

With no introduction necessary, the all-new, multi-award winning Sunseeker 65 Sport Yacht joins our expanding range of next-generation yachts.

The SkyHelm™, complete with IPS docking joystick, can be used in an upright position for low-speed manoeuvring or lowered to fall perfectly into outstretched arms when sat low in the bespoke helm seats cossetted by carbon fibre backrests and an integrated centre console. The modular layout allows for various specifications and enhancements, with space that adapts seamlessly to all kinds of socialising and adrenaline-seeking. Three cabins, including a full-beam master stateroom, can accommodate up to six guests in luxurious comfort, with a fully appointed crew cabin located forward of the garage.

Take your Sport Yacht to new heights by carrying the tender on the bathing platform and reconfiguring the vacated space as a dedicated ‘Beach Club’ – with direct sea access, bar, fridge, BBQ and free-standing seating. The perfect area for those happiest close to the water. With speeds of up to 35 knots, the 65 Sport Yacht cuts an equally impressive figure on the open water. Altogether, the experience is one of pure adrenaline, akin to driving a high-performance convertible supercar.

news & innovation

SUNSEEKER EXHIBIT AT THE 2024 BRITISH MOTOR YACHT SHOW WITH A SUPERB LINE-UP OF LUXURY YACHTS

SUNSEEKER 65 SPORT YACHT WINS THREE AWARDS AT THE JAPAN INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2024

SUNSEEKER PRESENT ITS LINE-UP OF LUXURY MOTORYACHTS FOR DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW

SUNSEEKER AT JAPAN INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2024

THE PREDATOR 65 AND SPORT YACHT 65 DISTINCTIVE FEATURES

SUNSEEKER AT PALMA INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW 2023

SUNSEEKER LINE-UP ANNOUNCED FOR SALONE NAUTICO GENOVA

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