A Comprehensive Guide to Boat Ownership up to 25 m

Embarking on Boat Ownership?

Meet Marina Poljak , a seasoned yacht broker with nearly two decades of experience in the yachting industry. Specializing in renowned brands like Beneteau, Boston Whaler, Lagoon Catamarans, Nimbus Boats, Riviera, Saxdor Yachts and Sea Ray, Marina brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or seeking to deepen your understanding, this comprehensive guide is your compass to confident boat ownership.

Explore renowned brands, consider key factors, and sail smoothly into the yachting lifestyle.

This interview will provide you with a solid foundation of essential basics for purchasing a boat up to 25 m.?

Q: Marina, tell us a bit about yourself and your experience in the yachting industry?

Certainly! My journey began over two decades ago when I started working as a hostess at boat shows during my university studies. This early exposure fueled my passion for yachting and eventually led me to become a yacht sales broker.

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of working with some of the most reputable boat brands in the industry.

My focus has always been on boats up to 25 m that offer a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style, such as Beneteau, Boston Whaler, Lagoon, Nimbus, Riviera, Saxdor and Sea Ray.

Each of these brands is globally recognized for its excellence. So, making the choice of the ideal boat is a matter of personal preferences, budget and style.

Q: What advice do you have for individuals looking to buy their first boat?

Buying a boat is a significant investment. First and foremost, begin by considering your primary reasons for boat ownership.

Establish a clear understanding of your budget, needs, and preferences.

Your journey to boat ownership is a personal one, and the role of a broker like myself is to guide you through this process, ensuring that the boat you choose is a reflection of your aspirations and lifestyle.

It's not just about finding a boat; it's about finding a boat that aligns with your lifestyle and desires.

1. Define Your Needs

Before diving into the market, outline your priorities.

Are you seeking a sleek cruiser for weekend getaways, grand adventures with a group of friends or a spacious boat for extended voyages?

Identifying your main objectives will guide your boat selection.

Assess your intended usage. The size of the boat plays a significant role in the overall experience. Consider the number of guests you plan to accommodate, desired amenities, and the primary purpose of the yacht.

Smaller boats (up to 40 ft) are great for intimate cruises, while mid-size boats (40-60 ft) offer more space. Larger boats (60 ft and above) are ideal for those seeking luxurious accommodations and amenities.

In addition, focus on amenities that align with your lifestyle. Whether it's cutting-edge technology, spacious interiors, or specific water sport features, prioritize elements that enhance your yachting experience.

2. Consider Which Brand is The Best Fit for Your Lifestyle

Different boat brands come with their own distinctive qualities, catering to a diverse range of tastes and requirements. This diversity is an asset, offering you a rich array of options to explore.

3. Budget Wisely

When considering the cost of boat ownership, it's essential to look beyond the initial purchase price.

Realistic budgeting ensures a financially manageable and enjoyable yacht ownership experience.

Ongoing annual expenses, including maintenance, docking fees, insurance, and potential crew salaries, if needed, all play a role in the overall financial commitment.

Moreover, boats require regular maintenance to uphold their value and ensure safety during voyages.

Assess the availability of reliable service providers in your local area to facilitate smooth and timely maintenance processes. This strategic approach ensures that your boat ownership experience remains financially manageable and the boat's condition is consistently well-maintained.

4. Research Thoroughly

Beyond brokers guidance, explore various boat brands, models, and sizes.

Attend boat shows, consult with experienced yacht brokers, and engage in online forums to gather insights from seasoned boat owners.

Understanding the market and having a reliable broker helps in making an informed decision.

5. Understand Pros and Cons of New vs Pre-Owned Boats

Both options have their merits.

While a new boat offers the latest technology and customization options, a pre-owned boat may provide better value for money.

Ensure pre-purchase inspections for pre-owned boats to gauge their condition and check their maintenance history.

6. Engage Professionals and Take a Sea Trial

Seek guidance from marine surveyors, brokers, and legal advisors. A thorough inspection by a qualified surveyor is crucial before finalizing the purchase.

Brokers can assist in navigating the market, negotiating prices, and handling paperwork.

Before making the final decision, request a sea trial. Experience firsthand how the boat handles in different conditions. Pay attention to comfort, performance, and any potential issues that might arise.

7. Think Resale Value

Boats are investments in experiences and lifestyle. Brands with a good reputation for quality and durability often retain value better.

Considering resale value is crucial for long-term financial planning.

Popular boat brands with a good reputation for quality and durability often retain value better than others.

8. Location Matters

Additionally, pinpointing your cruising destination is crucial—knowing where you plan to sail helps determine the ideal specifications for your boat and where the best place to make your purchase might be.

Consider climate, water conditions, and accessibility to marinas or storage facilities.

In addition, different regions might have varying regulations and tax implications for yacht ownership.

Q: Marina, when it comes to brands you specialize in, could you shed some light on their distinct features?

Each of the brands I work with—Beneteau, Boston Whaler, Lagoon, Nimbus, Riviera, Saxdor, and Sea Ray—is globally renowned for its premium quality and craftsmanship.

BENETEAU: Elegant Designs and Cutting-Edge Technology

With a rich history dating back to 1884, the French company Beneteau has been crafting sailing yachts and motorboats tailored to diverse boating practices. It holds the distinction of being one of the oldest boat building yards in the world run by a family majority.

Length Range: 20 - 62 ft

Price range: €50.000 - €2.000.000

Boston Whaler: Setting the Standard in Unsinkable Boats

For over 50 years, Boston Whaler has set the standard in building unsinkable sport fishing, pleasure, and yacht tender boats, delivering superior quality and lasting performance.

Length Range: 20 - 40 ft

Price Range (basic price): €20.000 - €1.000.000

Lagoon: Innovative Design, Exceptional Comfort, and Impressive Performance

Lagoon is a famous catamaran brand, celebrated for their innovative design, exceptional comfort, and impressive performance. Whether you're envisioning a serene family escape or an exciting adventure with friends, Lagoon catamarans provide an ideal fusion of space and luxury.

Length Range: 40 - 77 ft

Price Range (basic price): €400.000 - €7.000.000

Nimbus: Scandinavian Craftsmanship with Smart Functionality

Nimbus boats are crafted in Sweden, and they cater to the conscious yachtsman who appreciate a perfect blend of proper functionality, comfort, safety, and striking minimalistic Scandinavian design.

Length Range: 26 - 50 ft

Price Range (basic price): €100.000 - €800.000

Riviera - Australia's Premium Luxury Motor Yacht Builder

Riviera provides a variety of premium yacht options. From the sturdy and seaworthy Flybridge range to the elegant Sport Yachts, blending style and performance, and the adventurous SUV series for those seeking excitement on the water.

Length Range: 39 - 78 ft

Price Range (basic price): €750.000 - €4.000.000

Saxdor: Performance and Affordability

Saxdor strikes an impressive balance between performance and affordability. With captivating looks, top-notch performance, and budget-friendly options, they redefine value in boating.

Length Range: 22 - 35 ft

Price Range (basic price): €40.000 - €400.000

Sea Ray: Luxury and Comfort Elevated

Sea Ray takes luxury and comfort to new heights, promising unforgettable cruising experiences through meticulous craft skills, inspired design, effortless performance, and elevated onboard experiences.

Length Range: 19 - 65 ft

Price Range (basic price): €50.000 - €3.000.000

It's important to note that the choice among these exceptional brands ultimately depends on the boat owner's personal preferences, budget and style.

My role is to guide clients through this process, ensuring they find the perfect boat match for their individual needs.

Q: How do you guide your clients through the yacht-buying process?

I always start by getting to know my clients and understanding their boating aspirations.

Once we have a clear picture, I guide them through the available options, providing insights into each brand's strengths.

It's essential to address any concerns and make sure they feel confident in their decision. From sea trials to financing, I'm there every step of the way.

I made a little checklist to help you make a personalised ownership plan. It is a great start!

Checklist to Help Your Broker Make a Personalized Ownership Plan:

Before anything else, take a moment to evaluate your unique needs and preferences.

Define Your Yachting Aspirations: Weekend Getaways, Extended Voyages, Entertaining Friends, Adventure Cruises, Other (Specify)

Boat Style Preferences: Sleek and Modern, Classic Elegance, Sporty Design, Minimalistic Scandinavian, Other (Specify)

Boat Size: Intimate Cruiser (Up to 40 ft), Mid-Size Boat (40-60 ft), Spacious Luxury Boat(60 ft and above)

Number of Guests to Accommodate: (Specify)

Preferred Amenities: Performance Capabilities, Water Sport Features, Cutting-edge Technology, Spacious Interiors, Other (Specify)

Budget Considerations: Initial Purchase Price, Ongoing Maintenance, Insurance, Potential Crew Salaries, Docking Fees, Other (Specify)

New vs. Pre-Owned: New Boat, Pre-Owned Boat,?Not Sure Yet

Resale Value Consideration: Important, Somewhat Important,?Not a Priority

Cruising Destination: (Specify)

Local Regulations and Tax Implications: Researched, To Be Explored,?Not Considered Yet

We hope you enjoyed the interview with Marina, who serves as our external yacht sales consultant.

As it often happens with all good things in life, after unforgettable yachting charter experiences, our clients are inspired to take the plunge into boat ownership. Marina, our trusted yacht sales broker, specializes in yachts up to 20 m and is the go-to expert for turning these aspirations into a reality.

Whether you're interested in purchasing a ready-for-delivery new boat, pre-ordering a custom-made vessel, or acquiring a pre-owned boat in Croatia, Marina has the expertise that makes her an ideal choice for your yachting journey.

Catch Marina Poljak at boot Düsseldorf from January 20th to January 28th, 2024. If you're in the area, connect with her to discuss your yachting dreams.

With her winning combination of professionalism, flexibility, and a personalized touch she brings a wealth of knowledge to guide you at every stage of your boat ownership journey.

Thank you for exploring the world of boat ownership with us and learning from the insights shared by Marina. We hope you found this guide valuable in shaping your understanding of boat ownership.

Follow us for a deeper dive into the nuances of boat ownership with future topics covering boating as an investment, the best boats for charter, leasing options, maintenance tips, and much more.

If you have any specific questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to connect with us at [email protected].