21 foot sailboat cost

Average Sailboat Prices: 27 Helpful Examples (With Pictures)

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The average price of used sailboats is around $21,000, but new boats cost $60,000 on average and upwards. Some used boats can be purchased for less than $10,000, depending on their age, size, and condition. This is because pre-owned sailboats have about 80 percent of the market share.

You will find models from the early 1960s still racing across the Pacific and Atlantic like new. So what are your options?

Below, we provide a comprehensive list of enduring sailboat designs:

You can also check out our in-depth guide for more information on general boat average prices. In this guide, we have included a long list of boat types

Table of Contents

27 Good Examples When Looking At Sailboat Prices

1) tayana 37.

21 foot sailboat cost

Marine designer Robert Perry is arguably one of the most prolific in the boatbuilding world.

His Tayana 37 is one of the most popular production sailboats of all time, with over 650 built.

The Tayana 37 features a sturdy fiberglass hull and a balsa-cored deck for smooth and comfortable circumnavigation.

It comes with a variety of customizations, including different rigs, decks, accommodation, and more.

However, the early boats have V-berths, a high-aspect-ration rig, and a luxurious teak-trimmed interior.

Measuring 36’8″ in length with a displacement of 24,000 pounds, the Tayana 37 is one of the best world cruisers ever made. While production stopped in 2016, you can get one for $34,000 to $65,000.

2) Catalina 22

21 foot sailboat cost

Depending on the production year, the ubiquitous Catalina 22 can be as low as $4,000 or up to $15,000 for recent models.

This trailerable sailboat was first built in 1969 and enjoyed popularity thanks to its family-friendliness and compact design.

With over 10,000 boats commissioned, the Catalina 22 and its successors Catalina 27 and Catalina 30 are a permanent feature at lakes, rivers, and the high seas.

Despite its size, the Catalina 22 can hold its own in rough seas thanks to the hand-laid fiberglass hull. It is spacious below deck and comes with all the facilities you need to feel at home.

Whether you are a club racer or weekend cruiser, this dependable platform offers one of the best values for money when you want to spend quality time on the water.  If you get one with a trailer, that can save you a lot of money on marina and storage fees over time.

3) Hunter 356

21 foot sailboat cost

Starting in 2000, Glenn Henderson’s Hunter 356 took the sailboat industry by storm.

500 boats later, the 356 is still one of the best high-performance sailboats in its class.

This boat features a solid and balanced hull, shoal draft, and exceptional sailing qualities.

It has a sleek design, a clutter-free cockpit, and is easy to handle.

Early production Hunter 356s are available for less than $60,000.

Hunter Marine no longer produces the 356, but the sailboat is still popular among sailors old and young.

4) Contessa 26

21 foot sailboat cost

The compact Contessa 26 was designed by David Sadler and Jeremy Rodgers in the 1960s. It blew into the limelight when it helped Tanie Aebi complete her solo circumnavigation.

This fiberglass monohull is a sturdy and dependable vessel, and around 650 are voyaging across the oceans today.

She has a low freeboard, and the rudder is attached to the keel in a strong, traditional manner.

While you may have to bend a bit to access the cabin, there is plenty of space and amenities to deliver a home-away-from-home feel.

This is one of the most popular British sailboats and is most sought after by long-distance ocean sailors or just someone who wants a classic sailboat.

You can get a well-kept boat of this type for less than $10,000 or over $20,000.

The sister ship Contessa 32 is also a well-built model popular among sailors.

5) Island Packet 31

21 foot sailboat cost

If you love sailing in shallow waters, the Island Packet 31 is designed for the shoal draft needed to safely navigate Florida waters.

Featuring a solid fiberglass hull, the 31 has an end-grain balsa core deck, which gives it a powerful and solid feeling.

The boat is roomy, comfortable, and is designed to be simple to use and maintain.

While her seagoing credentials might not be the best, the Island Packet 31 is a vintage liveaboard yacht with all the trappings of royalty.

This boat costs about $35,000 to $50,000.

6) Bristol 40

21 foot sailboat cost

This Ted Hood design is one of the best cruising boat designs of all time.

Featuring a narrow beam and solid hull, the Bristol 40 has a low freeboard, large overhangs, and exceptional seaworthiness.

Its long keel carries an attached rudder for excellent tracking and stability.

The Bristol 40 has a relatively small interior with separate cabins , sea berths, and an enclosed head.

This boat was produced in keel or keel/centerboard configuration and came with the powerful Atomic 4 gas engine.  Many have been upgraded to diesel engines.

If you want a vintage racing sailboat that can deliver an impressive pace in the water, consider one of these.

The Bristol 40 was produced from 1966 to 1986, and you can get one for $29,000 to $49,000.

7) Cape Dory 30

21 foot sailboat cost

This 30-footer introduced in 1976 is a popular sailboat for people on a budget.

It boasts a robust design with a solid single hull, balsa-cored deck, and extensive bronze and teak hardware in the interior and exterior.

Like the Bristol 40, this boat has its rudder attached to the keel for stable tracking and safety, but not as much overhang in the stern.  The space below the deck uses a traditional design. But this tried and tested design is still ruling the waves.

For more room and improved handling, you can check out the bigger Cape Dory MK11, which comes at over $50,000.

21 foot sailboat cost

If you live on the West Coast of the United States, chances are you’ve seen one of these beauties.

Over 400 units of the Gulf 32 were produced, and the boat’s durable construction and beautiful design make it a good fit for many sailors.

It features a flush cambered deck, a sweeping sheer, and a low profile pilothouse, making it stand out on the water.

Specifications for the boat differ because it was built by two different boatyards. However, all Gulf 32 boats have a cavernous interior, comfortable wood finishes, and motorsailer dimensions.

Good samples of this model go for $24,000 to $39,000 but check the side decks for delamination.

9) Endeavour 37

21 foot sailboat cost

The Endeavour 37 is the successor of the successful Endeavour 32.

It is available as a sloop and ketch and comes with a powerful Perkins 4-108 diesel to provide good power for its heavy design.

The Endeavour 37 can be slow going upwind because of its weight but offers comfortable and smooth rides.

The hull is single fiberglass, and the interior comes with plenty of plywood, although the craftsmanship is exceptional.

The boat could have two aft cabins with a convertible dinette forward or a single aft cabin with a V-berth forward.

It sells for $20,000-$49,000.

10) Tartan 37

21 foot sailboat cost

The Tartan 37 is one of the three 37-footers Tartan Marine built over the years and the most popular.

This boat has a balsa-cored hull and deck and external lead ballast. The bulkheads are firmly tabbed to the deck to provide good structural strength.

With over 500 built, the Tartan 37 is a fast boat ideal for racing.

You can still find these boats for $23,000 and upward.

11) Islander 36

21 foot sailboat cost

As the name suggests, the Islander 36 is a 36-footer sailboat designed by the Australian Alan Gurney for Islander Yachts.

It features a skeg-mounted rudder, fin keel and has a solid fiberglass hull.

Unlike most sailboats with end-grain balsa deck, the Islander 36 uses plywood, which increases weight and can be stronger, but it can also get wet from leaks in the deck and rot.

What the boat excels at is the interior space.

The boat’s wide beam allowed the builder to provide more accommodation, unlike other boats in its category.

Over 1,000 units of this boat were built, and you can buy one for $22,000 and above.

12) Hallberg-Rassy 35 Rasmus

21 foot sailboat cost

This Olle Enderlein design features a center cockpit, a huge windscreen, and a full keel for improved stability and handling.

It has all the amenities of a small home, including a saloon, galley, main cabin, v-berth, and enclosed head.

The sailboat has a solid fiberglass construction and rides well in choppy waters.

A 75HP Volvo Pentad MD21 diesel supplements wind power, making this boat a reliable cruiser.

The boat sells for about $30,000.

13) Dufour Arpege 30

21 foot sailboat cost

You might not hear of this boat builder often, but it was one of the most successful in France and beyond.

The Arpege 30 sports luxurious facilities include stylish sea berths, a large galley, and plenty of forepeak storage compartments.

This 30-footer was so popular over 1,500 were sold from 1966 onward.

If you need a classic sailboat with high-end performance and fittings, this weekend cruiser is it.

One of these beauties goes for around $18,000

14) Mason 43/44

21 foot sailboat cost

The Taiwan-built Maison 43/44 from Al Mason is a fast, comfortable, and reliable oceangoing sailboat.

These boats were first introduced as the Mason 43 and upgraded to the Mason 44 in 1985.

The boat has a full keel and a cutter rig and rides well in the sea.

There are double-berth cabins fore and aft, a galley, and everything a small family or couple needs to cross any ocean in comfort.

These beautiful boats are still found in docks worldwide and go for $60,00 to over $120,000.

15) Nor’Sea 27

21 foot sailboat cost

This 27-footer designed by Lyle Hess is one of the most affordable and ocean-capable sailboats still in production today.

Despite being compact enough to move by trailer from one boating hotspot to another, the Nor’Sea 27 can take you safely across any ocean.

Don’t be fooled by its small size; this is a solid boat that can withstand a heavy bashing at sea.

It has a lapstrake fiberglass hull, a full keel, sturdy bulwarks, and a round stern for exceptional seaworthiness.

The Nor’Sea 27 featured a bowsprit and extended anchor roller, giving it a traditional sailboat appearance.

If you need an affordable sailboat that can circumnavigate the world, the Nor’Sea 27 is a capable cruiser that won’t hurt your purse.

You can get a 1981 model for less than $30,000.

16) C&C Landfall 38

21 foot sailboat cost

If you need a highly maneuverable sailboat, fast, and has exceptional cruising capabilities, one of the best examples is the Landfall 38.

This boat was produced in the shallow draft and deep fin configurations, and later versions gained 1700 pounds in weight.

However, this didn’t dampen the boat’s performance in bluewater environments.

The Landfall 38 was one of the first boats to feature a hull and deck with end-grain balsa coring, making it light and increasing stiffness.

There are a keel-stepped mast, through-bolted deck hardware, and a spade rudder, which provides improved control and sailing performance in all weather.

The interior is lavishly finished in teak, and the aft cabin has a double berth.

These boats were equipped with a venerable Yanmar diesel engine and sails upwind like a racer.

This boat costs around $33,000, and the last units were built in 1987.

17) Gulfstar 50

Gulfstar 50 is one of the most comfortable family-sized sailboats in the world.  Gulfstar also made versions from 36 feet to 60 feet.

Despite its luxurious trims and decent performance, the 50-footer from Gulfstar Yachts is affordable considering its features.

It features a center console cockpit, which provides for a spacious owner’s stateroom aft.

There is plenty of accommodation for a family or a small group because it was designed for charter. With its solid fiberglass hull and exquisite interior finishing, this boat continues to be one of the most preferred liveaboards for people who choose the sailing lifestyle.

A 1978 model goes for around $99,000.

18) Beneteau 423

21 foot sailboat cost

This Groupe Finot-designed sailboat is one of the best from the French boatbuilder Beneteau.

It has a solid construction, exceptional speed and is easy to handle even in rough waters. The interior is clutter-free, comfortable, and spacious.

Plus, the 423 is a quality boat that delivers tremendous value for money considering the pedigree and quality.

You can get one for less than $100,000 to around $195,000, based on the year of production and condition.

19) Alberg 30

21 foot sailboat cost

With over 750 of this boat built over 25 years, the Alberg 30 is one of the most beloved cruising-racing sailboats.

Featuring the wooden boats’ classy look, the Alberg 30 has a full keel, long overhangs, and a low freeboard.

Despite production stopping since 1984, these boats are going strong thanks to durable fiberglass construction and attention to detail.

The Alberg 30 is not the most accommodating by modern standards. But it has a sal0on, a V-berth forward, and an enclosed head aft.

There is also a small galley to starboard, and the design is clutter-free.

If you want to own one of these legendary club racers, you will be surprised they go for as low as $10,000 to $25,000. 

The price will often depend on whether the original Atomic 4 gas engine has been upgraded to a diesel engine.

20) Peterson 44

21 foot sailboat cost

The Peterson 44 was designed by Doug Peterson of the Jack Kelly Yachts in 1975.

This fine boat was designed for long-distance cruising and its center-cockpit style provided ample accommodation and comfort.

You can still find these beautiful boats crisscrossing the oceans , and many of them have circumnavigated.

The Peterson 44 featured hand-laid fiberglass matt and polyester resin roving, making it a solid and dependable cruiser.

It has a three-cabin layout with V-berths, a dinette, and an enclosed head.

The boat is powered by a 62HP Perkins 4-152 Diesel, although a few have 80HP Ford Lehman’s, allowing it to run fast under power.

It is estimated that over 600 hulls of the Peterson 44 were built, and price ranges from around $73,500 to $230,000.

21) Hinckley Bermuda 40

21 foot sailboat cost

Few sailboats hold their value, like the Bermuda 40 from Hinckley.

This elegant and capable boat was built to exacting specifications with its yawl rig, low freeboard, and sweeping overhangs.

Most used B 40s are still in mint shape because their proud owners well maintain them, many serviced by the boatbuilder.  So they retain most of their value even after thousands of miles on the high seas.

Despite its 40-foot length, the Bermuda 40 is limited in space, making it ideal for couples.

It has V-berths forward, which you can convert to a comfortable double bed.

There is plenty of storage space, and the head has a shower and a sink.

The deck is spacious, and the boat handles nimbly even in turbulent waters.

This boat is geared towards traditional sailors who want a top-end boat, as even a base model from 1975 goes for about$90,000.

22) Pacific Seacraft 37

21 foot sailboat cost

Since its introduction in 1980, the Pacific Seacraft 37 has proven to be one of the best world cruising sailboats in its class.

This boat is fast, comfortable and solidly built for safe passages across the ocean.

It was offered in the cutter and yawl configurations, and its traditional stern style sits atop a modern skeg rudder underbody.

This boat has accommodation for six passengers and every amenity to ensure a comfortable time on the ocean.

She is a prominent feature at the Singlehanded Pacific Yacht Race and other top sail boating events.

This boat is still in production and goes new for around $450,000, so an older used model for less than $100,000 is a good deal.

23) Gemini 3000

21 foot sailboat cost

A successor to the Gemini 31, the 3000 is the most popular American-built cruising cat on the market.

Featuring a simple design, this highly functional cat is affordable and fast.

Despite its narrow beam, the Gemini 3000 boasts a master stateroom with a queen-size double berth forward.

There are guest staterooms aft of both hulls with two small doubles.

It has a small saloon with a collapsible table with two settees and a galley, converting to a double berth.

This 30-footer can sleep three couples comfortably and will accommodate a family with several small children without issues.

The Gemini 3000 has deep pivoting centerboards for improved performance and directional stability.

Geminis are not considered suitable for bluewater cruising because they are not designed to withstand serious bashing.

However, these cats offer an affordable ticket for a family or group of friends to enjoy coastal cruising. This boat goes for around $35,000 to $65,000.

24) Gunboat 62 (catamaran)

21 foot sailboat cost

The Gunboat 62 from the same name’s cat builder is one of the safest offshore sailing catamarans in its class. It’s also insanely expensive!

This high-performance cat is perfect for oceanic cruises.

Its innovative design opened up plenty of space for accommodation and recreation.

It features three private cabins, each with queen berths and 2 roomy heads with a separate shower in each hull.

There is a galley, a lounge, a folding dining table, and a full pantry below the deck.

The starboard bow has a crew head, and the port bow houses the crew quarters.

This cat comes with air conditioning, refrigerator, deep freezer, and dishwasher, among others.

The cockpit is lavished with teak, and every part of the boat oozes luxury.

This cat carries a premium price tag of over 2 million dollars.

25) Lagoon 380 (catamaran)

21 foot sailboat cost

Lagoon 380 is a 4 cabin sailing cat built by Jeanneau.

This cat accommodates 10 passengers and is an excellent platform for cruising across the ocean or lounging on coastal waters.

With over 500 units cruising across the world, the Lagoon 380 has won the heart of many cat sailors as a comfortable and safe platform.

This workhorse comes with an exquisitely furnished interior at an affordable price.

It might not be the fastest catamaran, but the Lagoon 380 provides all the comfort and stability you need to have fun and memorable moments on the water.

These boats go for $400,000 or more, so they may still be out of many sailors’ reach.

26) Catana 50 Carbon (Catamaran)

21 foot sailboat cost

If you need a light, fast and go-anywhere cat, the Catana 50 Carbon is one of the best on the market.

Using weight-saving carbon fiber, Catana reduced the weight, turning the boat into a racy oceangoing multi-hull.

With this vessel, you get a luxurious interior, ample deck space, superior performance, and easy handling.

This boat costs a whopping $1.3 million at a base price, making it a choice of select premium sailors.

27) Prout Snowgoose 37 (Catamaran)

21 foot sailboat cost

With an estimated 500 units built, the Prout Snowgoose 37 from Prout boatyard is one of the most popular cats from the UK.

This catamaran features solid construction that allows it to sail across oceans, and many are reported to have completed circumnavigations.

The Prout 37 may not look like the newest designs, but it has a comfortable deck and interior.

Below deck, this boat has two large double cabins aft and a full queen berth forward.

There is a saloon with a large table and wraparound settees.

It has a changing station, a full-length bookshelf, and a large storage starboard hull. And the galley is well-equipped to keep a family well-fed on long voyages.

There are hundreds of Prout Snowgoose 37s plying the world’s ocean, and you can own one for less than $100,000.

2 Ways To Reduce the Cost of Buying a Sailboat

There are two main ways of saving cost when buying a sailboat or any boat. They include:

1) Buying Used Boats

If you’ve followed this article this far, you notice that the most affordable boats on this list are used.

Contrary to many novice sailors’ belief, you can buy sailboats for low prices as long as you do due diligence.

Many models from the last half of the 20th century are available for less than $30,000.

Because most serious sailors are passionate about their hobbies, they take exceptional care of their boats. This makes most sailboats on the market retain their value for many years.

In fact, you can get oceangoing boats of 26-32 feet in almost pristine conditions under $100,000.

The best part is most popular sailboats have a strong following worldwide, and sourcing spare parts won’t be a problem.

2) Partnerships

The other way to reduce the cost of a sailboat is to partner with someone.

Partners will share the purchase cost and other expenses related to the boat. However, this can be problematic.

Sometimes, a partner will not honor their commitment when it’s time to pay.

A partner may spend more time on the boat, and this can lead to conflict over responsibilities.

If you choose this route, it’s better to partner with a family or friend. And have a contractual agreement stipulating the rights and obligations of all the parties involved in the transaction.

Considering that most used sailboats are affordable and in good condition, you can save yourself the potential problems that come with co-owning a boat.

The best way to experience sailing life is to own your boat.

Final Words

Sailboats have come a long way since they became a serious pastime for people in the early part of the last century.

Because of the early sailboats’ quality construction, new sailors have myriad options to choose from without hurting their finances.

You can get a pre-owned offshore capable sailboat for less than $10,000 in many parts of the world.

However, very inexpensive used boats may need many repairs and upgrades, so it is often more inexpensive in the end, too, but a well-maintained and upgraded vessel. If you have a fat purse, you can go for newer, premium sailboats in the hundreds of thousands.

But whatever your budget and sailing dreams, there is a sailboat out there for everybody who dares to explore the oceans.

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20 Best Small Sailboats for the Weekender

  • By Mark Pillsbury
  • Updated: May 24, 2024

In order to go cruising, most of us require a sailboat with a head, a galley, and bunks. The boat, likely a 30-footer and more often a 40-footer, will have electronics for navigation and entertainment, refrigeration if the trip is longer than a coastal hop, an engine for light wind, and, depending on our appetites for food and fun, perhaps a genset to power our toys and appliances.

To go sailing , however, all we really need is a hull, mast, rudder, and sail. To experience the pure joy of sheeting in and scooting off across a lake, bay, or even the open ocean, there’s nothing better than a small sailboat – we’re talking sailboats under 25 feet. You can literally reach out and touch the water as it flows past. You instantly feel every puff of breeze and sense every change in trim.

Some of the boats in this list are new designs, others are time-tested models from small sailboat manufacturers, but every one is easy to rig, simple to sail, and looks like a whole lot of fun either for a solo outing on a breezy afternoon or to keep family and friends entertained throughout your entire sailing season. This list is made up of all types of sailboats , and if you’re looking for a list of some of the best small sailboats for beginners, you’ll find exactly that here.

Any one of these popular boats could be labeled as a trailerable sailboat, daysailer, or even a weekender sailboat. And while most would be labeled as a one or two person sailboat, some could comfortably fit three or even four people.

– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

Marblehead 22 Daysailer

If you have an eye for elegant lines and your heart goes pitter-patter over just the right amount of overhang beneath a counter transom, the Marblehead 22 daysailer, designed by Doug Zurn and built by Samoset Boatworks in Boothbay, Maine, will definitely raise your pulse. Traditional-looking above the waterline and modern beneath, the cold-molded hull sports a deep bulb keel and a Hall Spars carbon-fiber mast with a wishbone rig and square-top main. The 11-foot-9-inch cockpit can seat a crowd, and a small cuddy forward will let you stow your friends’ gear for the day. samosetboatworks.com

Catalina 22 Sport

Catalina 22 Sport

Many a harbor plays host to an active fleet of Catalina 22s, one of the most popular small sailboats over the years, given its basic amenities and retractable keel, which allows it to be easily trailered. Recently, the company introduced the Catalina 22 Sport, an updated design that can compete with the older 22s. The boat features a retractable lead keel; a cabin that can sleep four, with a forward hatch for ventilation; and a fractional rig with a mainsail and a roller-furling jib. Lifelines, a swim ladder, and an engine are options, as are cloth cushions; vinyl cushions are standard. The large cockpit will seat a crowd or let a mom-and-pop crew stretch out and enjoy their sail. It’s clear why the Catalina 22 is one of the best sailboats under 25 feet. catalinayachts.com

Hunter 22

With its large, open-transom cockpit and sloop rig, the Hunter 22 makes a comfortable daysailer for family and friends. But with its cuddy cabin, twin bunks, optional electrical system, opening screened ports, and portable toilet, a parent and child or a couple could comfortably slip away for an overnight or weekend. Add in the optional performance package, which includes an asymmetric spinnaker, a pole, and a mainsheet traveler, and you could be off to the races. The boat features a laminated fiberglass hull and deck, molded-in nonskid, and a hydraulic lifting centerboard. Mount a small outboard on the stern bracket, and you’re set to go. marlow-hunter.com

the Daysailer

Not sure whether you want to race, cruise or just go out for an afternoon sail? Since 1958, sailors have been having a ball aboard the Uffa Fox/George O’Day-designed Daysailer. Fox, who in the 1950s was on the cutting edge of planning-dinghy design, collaborated with Fall River, Massachusetts boatbuilder O’Day Corp. to build the 16-foot Daysailer, a boat that features a slippery hull and a small cuddy cabin that covers the boat roughly from the mast forward. Thousands of Daysailers were built by various builders, and they can be found used for quite affordable prices. There are active racing fleets around the US, and new Daysailers are still in production today, built by Cape Cod Ship Building. capecodshipbuilding.com

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

BayRaider from Swallow Boats

Easy to rig and trailer, the BayRaider from England’s Swallow Yachts is a relative newcomer to the small-boat market in the United States. Nearly all of its 19 feet 9 inches is open cockpit, though a spray hood can be added to keep the forward sections dry. The BayRaider is ketch-rigged with a gunter-style mainmast. The topmast and mizzen are both carbon-fiber, which is an option for the mainmast as well. The BayRaider can be sailed with a dry hull in lighter conditions or with 300 pounds of water ballast to increase its stability. With the centerboard and hinged rudder raised, the boat can maneuver in even the thinnest water.

$28,900, (904) 234-8779, swallowyachts.com

12 1/2 foot Beetle Cat

Big fun can come in small packages, especially if your vessel of choice happens to be the 12 ½-foot Beetle Cat. Designed by John Beetle and first built in 1921, the wooden shallow draft sailboat is still in production today in Wareham, Massachusetts at the Beetle Boat Shop. With a draft of just 2 feet, the boat is well-suited for shallow bays, but equally at home in open coastal waters. The single gaff-rigged sail provides plenty of power in light air and can be quickly reefed down to handle a blow. In a word, sailing a Beetle Cat is fun. beetlecat.com

– LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

West Wight Potter P 19

West Wight Potter P 19

With berths for four and a workable galley featuring a cooler, a sink, and a stove, West Wight Potter has packed a lot into its 19-foot-long P 19. First launched in 1971, this is a line of boats that’s attracted a true following among trailer-sailors. The P 19′s fully retractable keel means that you can pull up just about anywhere and go exploring. Closed-cell foam fore and aft makes the boat unsinkable, and thanks to its hard chine, the boat is reportedly quite stable under way. westwightpotter.com

NorseBoat 17.5

NorseBoat 17.5

Designed for rowing and sailing (a motor mount is optional), the Canadian-built NorseBoat 17.5—one of which was spotted by a CW editor making its way through the Northwest Passage with a two-man crew—features an open cockpit, a carbon-fiber mast, and a curved-gaff rig, with an optional furling headsail set on a sprit. The lapstrake hull is fiberglass; the interior is ply and epoxy. The boat comes standard with two rowing stations and one set of 9-foot oars. The boat is designed with positive flotation and offers good load-carrying capacity, which you could put to use if you added the available canvas work and camping tent. NorseBoats offers a smaller sibling, the 12.5, as well; both are available in kit form.

$19,000, (902) 659-2790, norseboat.com

Montgomery 17

Montgomery 17

Billed as a trailerable pocket cruiser, the Montgomery 17 is a stout-looking sloop designed by Lyle Hess and built out of fiberglass in Ontario, California, by Montgomery Boats. With a keel and centerboard, the boat draws just under 2 feet with the board up and can be easily beached when you’re gunkholing. In the cuddy cabin you’ll find sitting headroom, a pair of bunks, a portable toilet, optional shore and DC power, and an impressive amount of storage space. The deck-stepped mast can be easily raised using a four-part tackle. The builder reports taking his own boat on trips across the Golfo de California and on visits to California’s coastal islands. Montgomery makes 15-foot and 23-foot models, as well. If you’re in search of a small sailboat with a cabin, the Montgomery 17 has to be on your wish list.

CW Hood 32 Daysailer small sailboat

With long overhangs and shiny brightwork, the CW Hood 32 is on the larger end of the daysailer spectrum. Designers Chris Hood and Ben Stoddard made a conscious decision to forego a cabin and head in favor of an open cockpit big enough to bring 4 or 5 friends or family out for an afternoon on the water. The CW Hood 32 is sleek and graceful through the water and quick enough to do some racing, but keeps things simple with a self-tacking jib and controls that can be lead back to a single-handed skipper. A top-furling asymmetrical, electric sail drive and Torqeedo outboard are all optional. The CW Hood 32 makes for a great small family sailboat.  cwhoodyachts.com

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Sun Cat from Com-Pac

Shallow U.S. East Coast bays and rock-strewn coasts have long been graced by cat boats, whose large, gaff-rigged mainsails proved simple and powerful both on the wind and, better yet, when reaching and running. The 17-foot-4-inch Sun Cat, built by Com-Pac Yachts, updates the classic wooden cat with its fiberglass hull and deck and the easy-to-step Mastender Rigging System, which incorporates a hinged tabernacle to make stepping the mast a one-person job. If you want a personal sailboat ideal for solo sailing, the Sun Can is a great choice. Belowdecks, the twin 6-foot-5-inch berths and many other features and amenities make this cat a willing weekender.

$19,800, (727) 443-4408, com-pacyachts.com

Catalina 16.5

Catalina 16.5

The Catalina 16.5 sits right in the middle of Catalina Yachts’ line of small sailboats, which range from the 12.5 to the 22 Capri and Sport, and it comes in both an easy-to-trailer centerboard model and a shoal-draft fixed-keel configuration. With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. catalinayachts.com

Hobie 16

No roundup of best small sailboats (trailerable and fun too) would be complete without a mention of the venerable Hobie 16, which made its debut in Southern California way back in 1969. The company has introduced many other multihulls since, but more than 100,000 of the 16s have been launched, a remarkable figure. The Hobie’s asymmetric fiberglass-and-foam hulls eliminate the need for daggerboards, and with its kick-up rudders, the 16 can be sailed right up to the beach. Its large trampoline offers lots of space to move about or a good place to plant one’s feet when hanging off the double trapezes with a hull flying. The boat comes with a main and a jib; a spinnaker, douse kit, trailer, and beach dolly are optional features. hobiecat.com

Hunter 15

Novice sailors or old salts looking for simplicity could both enjoy sailing the Hunter 15. With a fiberglass hull and deck and foam flotation, the boat is sturdily built. The ample freeboard and wide beam provide stability under way, and the heavy-duty rubrail and kick-up rudder mean that you won’t have to worry when the dock looms or the going grows shallow. Both the 15 and its slightly larger 18-foot sibling come standard with roller-furling jibs.

$6,900/$9,500 (boat-show prices for the 15 and 18 includes trailers), (386) 462-3077, marlow-hunter.com

– CHECK THE FIT – Follow these guidelines to make sure your life jacket looks good, stays comfortable and works when you need it. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Super Snark

Super Snark

Under various owners, the Snark brand of sailboats, now built by Meyers Boat Co., has been around since the early 1970s. The Super Snark, at 11 feet, is a simple, easily car-topped daysailer that’s fit out with a lateen rig and sail. Billed as unsinkable, the five boats in the company’s line are built with E.P.S. foam, with the external hull and deck vacuum-formed to the core using an A.B.S. polymer. The Super Snark weighs in at 50 pounds, and with a payload capacity of 310 pounds, the boat can carry two.

$970, (800) 247-6275, meyersboat.com

Norseboat 21.5

Norseboat 21.5

Built in Canada, the NorseBoat 21.5 is a rugged looking craft that comes in a couple of configurations: one with an open cockpit and small doghouse, and another with a smaller cockpit and cabin that houses a double berth for two adults and optional quarter berths for the kids. Both carry NorseBoat’s distinctive looking carbon fiber gaff-rigged mast with main and jib (a sprit-set drifter is optional), and come with a ballasted stub keel and centerboard. Because of its lightweight design, the boat can be rowed and is easily trailered.

$36,000 (starting), 902-659-2790, norseboat.com

Flying Scot

Flying Scot

Talk about time-tested, the 19-foot Flying Scot has been in production since 1957 and remains a popular design today. Sloop rigged, with a conventional spinnaker for downwind work, the boat is an easily sailed family boat as well as a competitive racer, with over 130 racing fleets across the U.S. Its roomy cockpit can seat six to eight, though the boat is often sailed by a pair or solo. Hull and deck are a fiberglass and balsa core sandwich. With the centerboard up, the boat draws only eight inches. Though intended to be a daysailer, owners have rigged boom tents and berths for overnight trips, and one adventurous Scot sailor cruised his along inland waterways from Philadelphia to New Orleans.

RS Venture

Known primarily for its line of racing dinghys, RS Sailing also builds the 16-foot, 4-inch Venture, which it describes as a cruising and training dinghy. The Venture features a large, self-draining cockpit that will accommodate a family or pack of kids. A furling jib and mainsail with slab reefing come standard with the boat; a gennaker and trapeze kit are options, as is an outboard motor mount and transom swim ladder. The deck and hull are laid up in a fiberglass and Coremat sandwich. The Venture’s designed to be both a good performer under sail, but also stable, making it a good boat for those learning the sport.

$14,900, 203-259-7808, rssailing.com

Topaz Taz

Topper makes a range of mono- and multihull rotomolded boats, but the model that caught one editor’s eye at Strictly Sail Chicago was the Topaz Taz. At 9 feet, 8 inches LOA and weighing in at 88 pounds, the Taz is not going to take the whole crowd out for the day. But, with the optional mainsail and jib package (main alone is for a single child), the Taz can carry two or three kids or an adult and one child, and would make a fun escape pod when tied behind the big boat and towed to some scenic harbor. The hull features Topper’s Trilam construction, a plastic and foam sandwich that creates a boat that’s stiff, light, and durable, and shouldn’t mind being dragged up on the beach when it’s time for a break.

$2,900 (includes main and jib), 410-286-1960, topazsailboats.com

WindRider WRTango

WindRider WRTango

WRTango, a fast, sturdy, 10-foot trimaran that’s easy to sail, is the newest portable craft from WindRider International. It joins a line that includes the WR16 and WR17 trimarans. The Tango features forward-facing seating, foot-pedal steering, and a low center of gravity that mimics the sensation of sitting in a kayak. It weighs 125 pounds (including the outriggers and carbon-fiber mast), is extremely stable, and has single-sheet sail control. The six-inch draft and kick-up rudder make it great for beaching, while the hull and outriggers are made of rotomolded polyethylene, so it can withstand running into docks and being dragged over rocks.

$3,000, 612-338-2170, windrider.com

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How Much Does An Average Sailboat Cost?

cost of a sailboat

If you have ever spent a glorious afternoon on the water on a sailboat, you know what a thrill it is. Sailing represents freedom, harnessing the wind to drive you forward. It is a quiet time on the water and developing the skills to sail well can be addicting. It doesn’t matter if you want to simply go out for a few hours, enjoy an occasional overnight or weekend cruise, join the racing crowd and be in the frenetic chaos at the starting line, or dream of tropical sunsets in paradise far over the horizon. Sailing has great appeal to those romantic souls who discover its pleasures. And sailing can be a lifelong passion.

The average cost of a sailboat for sale will vary all over the board, given the many sizes, complexities, and types of sailboats out there. New or used, they can range from small, open daysailers to large catamarans that have multiple staterooms and accommodations for the entire family. Modern speedy monohulls will provide the adrenaline rush for those athletic enough to push them to their limits, while heavier, slower sailboats provide a comfortable platform to sail safely around the world, or wherever your dreams take you.

A 22-foot sailboat may be close to $30,000 brand new, yet an older model of the same boat built in the late 1970s might be purchased for $5,500 or less. A shiny new 48-foot catamaran will cost you well over $1,000,000, while a similar boat built in 2008 may be purchased for $425,000, and be better equipped. This new-versus-used situation is going to be true for all sailboats, no matter if they are monohull, catamaran, motorsailer, daysailer, or racing machine. Is it best to always buy a brand-new boat? That depends. The key is to understand that there will be additional costs that may not be obvious.

(Seen below: The Hanse 315 is an approximately 30-foot sailboat that costs between $100,000 and $150,000 when purchased new.)

hanse 30-foot sailboat

The docks at all major boat shows showcase the diverse range of sailboats to satisfy everyone’s ideas, and it is easy to fall in love with one boat after another. Sailboats are funny like that, so similar, yet so different. How to choose the right one often comes down to what one can afford. That sail away special during the show may be enough to pull out your checkbook, but there is more to it than just the sale price. There is the obvious need to keep it somewhere, insure it, and maintain it.

Relevant: Frequently Asked Questions About Owning A Sailboat

One must have realistic ideas of what they are looking for, and an experienced yacht broker will be of great value to help determine that. A broker is key to weave the person’s sailing experience with the kind of sailing they hope to do, while working within their budget. But once the basic plan is in place, it becomes a fun adventure to look and learn from as many boats as possible. Some will appeal straightaway, for any number of reasons, while others may be intimidating in terms of size, complexity, and finishes that demand expensive maintenance. Boats with highly varnished brightwork will be much more labor intensive than white fiberglass, minimal interior appointments, and just basic systems. Low maintenance boats are literally a wash and wear proposition that live just fine during the season on a mooring.

For instance, most new production boats are built to the level of completeness necessary to satisfy most buyers. It is sufficient for how most people will use it. That is smart and intentional. It makes no sense to fully outfit a sailboat to the level where it can safely cross oceans, because the builders already know few owners have that desire and doing so drives up the costs significantly. So, the manufacturers complete the boats to around 80 percent of what would be necessary for a passagemaker ready to conquer the world.

If you have long-distance cruising plans, keep that in mind.

(Seen below: This is a very interesting video from a couple that lives on their sailboat. It gives you an idea of what you 'could' equipped with.)

What new boat buyers soon learn is the extent of associated costs that necessarily increase as the boats get bigger, more complex, with more systems for comfort and ease of sail handling…all intended to provide a higher quality living aboard experience.

A partial list of such items may include :

• Diesel engine propulsion system, including transmission, shaft and seal, and propeller • Additional standing and running rigging, such as whisker pole and inner forestay • A sail inventory beyond regular sails, such as spinnakers, Code Zero, and special purpose sails • Some form of renewable anti-fouling protection for hull and propeller • Batteries, which often must be replaced every six years or so • Ground tackle, which may include electric windlass, chain/rope rode and heavier anchor(s) • Navigation electronics and autopilot • Safety gear, such as PFDs, life raft, EPIRB, flares, harnesses • Dinghy and perhaps a gas or electric outboard • Comfort appliances, such as refrigeration/freezer, air conditioning • Generator • Bow thruster • Exterior canvas for bimini and covers for sun and weather protection • Additional fenders, dock lines, shorepower cords

One will also have to put together tool bags to maintain all the above, and there needs to be storage for these and other special tools that find their way aboard. In a harsh saltwater environment, tools typically must be replaced every so many years. (Read Our 4-Part Series On Boat Tools )

On a new or almost new boat, it is generally agreed that 10 percent of the value of the boat will be needed for recurring annual maintenance costs, for things like varnish, bottom paint, zincs, cleaning supplies, fuel filters, oil, grease, and other consumables. If one can do the work themselves, it will be much cheaper than paying the going yard rates.

On an older boat, the budget for keeping things working will generally be higher, unless the boat is simple and does not have lots of winches, systems, or complexity. The gaff-rigged Tahiti ketch comes to mind, as does the Westsail 32. Once a boat reaches 10+ years, things just start to wear out, hoses get brittle, plumbing cracks, wires corrode, pumps fail, and seacocks deteriorate. While older sailboats have the obvious appeal of a low initial price, a false sense of value can be shattered when it is determined that the engine must be replaced, all the leaking ports need major work, or it’s time for a new mast and rigging. Old roller furling gear goes into the dumpster.

That romantic cutter, all covered in teak decks and gleaming brightwork will cost you thousands of dollars to maintain the varnish. Unless you want to do it yourself, of course, but most find it tedious and time consuming.

Many younger people go the old, fixer-upper route, and they figure they can make it work while learning new skills. But they are still in their prime, don’t mind a little discomfort by roughing it, and their dreams and vision cuts through the cloud of difficulties to get the boat that much closer to begin living the dream. There are scores of YouTube channels that celebrate this lifestyle theme of living the experience.

While there are compelling reasons to buy a new boat, the sweet spot for managing the cost of buying a sailboat, I believe, is to find one that is neither brand new nor very old. Searching for a boat that fits one’s needs and is under 10 years old can result in a purchase that has the best all-around value. The boat’s propulsion, plumbing, steering, and electrical components are still working, the equipment still current and good for the foreseeable future. One does not expect the same service from an autopilot that is 30 years old, assuming it even works.

Look at the popular Beneteau Oceanis series sailboats, for example. Keeping it under 10 years old, one finds a 2015 Oceanis 41 around $178,000, and a 2018 Oceanis 41.1 at $198,000. These are not bad prices for newer boats that are also well equipped. The same holds true for other main brand manufacturers, such as Jeanneau and Hanse .

Many of the classic, proven sailboats are still out there, though, and worth a look if you can find one. While the design is now 50 years old, the Valiant 40/42 remains a popular choice for cruisers. The older, original Valiant 40s come on the market for around $75,000, while the newer V42s built in Texas still hold their value about $225,000. The same is true with established designs from other top yards, such as the Swedish and English builders of Hallberg-Rassy, Malo, Rustler, and Oyster.

(Seen below: This 2000 Jeanneau 45 Sun Odyssey is a good example of a used sailboat on the brokerage market. It is listed for under $200,000.)

Jeanneau sailboat

For performance and fun, a five-year-old J/22 can be bought for $9000 and offers a lot of sailing pleasure in a small package. A 10-year-old J/105, a more capable sailboat, is right around $70,000.

Not surprising, the age of the boat has as much to do with the asking price as its condition and how well it is equipped. A 1977 Catalina 30 can be purchased for $15,000, while a five-year-newer boat is listed for $25,000. A Catalina 30 built in 1993 is asking $29,000.

Ultimately, the cost of buying a sailboat must be balanced with the value it brings. Newer boats aren’t just fresher and cleaner, they are arguably better boats, as the technology of boat building has made great strides in improving the product. Vacuum infusion is now commonplace and is far better for building a strong hull that is lighter than traditionally hand laid fiberglass, where it was difficult to control the resin to glass ratio.

Diesel engines are now much cleaner, lighter per horsepower, have better fuel economy, and overall, propulsion systems have greatly improved with electronic controls. The same is true for most other components, from appliances to steering systems. And today’s electrical systems are lightyears better than what is found in older boats. LED fixtures, lithium-ion batteries, regeneration gear, and much improved wiring practices add to the marvelous systems of today.

Across the board, hull shapes have changed, and they are more powerful, more easily driven, and the sailing systems that power them are also much improved, while being safer and easier to use. Some builders, such as Tartan Yachts, even promote that they have put the fun factor back into sailing, as their sail handling systems are a joy to use.

If you are ready to join the sailing world, find yourself an experienced broker to share your ideas and plans, and get real. Dreaming is fun but being at the helm of your own sailboat is better than any fantasy.

The world awaits. Good luck.

Enjoy these other boating and cruising articles:

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21 foot sailboat cost

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The Sailo Boat Calculator is a tool that allows you to explore, predict, and plan costs and revenues associated to boat ownership. The most important user inputs can be found on the left side of the Cost of Ownership tab. The calculator has built-in models that compute costs as a function of the information provided.

The calculator is organized in multiple tabs that show costs breakdown and allow for detailed customization. For example, the fuel cost tab computes fuel consumption based on the type and size of your boat, estimated HP, and average current gas prices. To make this calculation more accurate you can enter a more exact fuel consumption for your boat and more accurate local gas prices.

The last two tabs are probably the most interesting. The Charter Profit section estimates the income your boat can generate on a platform like Sailo based on charter rates and days rented. Of course we increase maintenance costs due to chartering based on the number of extra days on the water. The Rent vs Buy tab shows a comparison between renting and owning an identical boat to find which option is the most economical and by how much. Note: we assume identical fuel consumption and cost for both rental and personal use. Read more about it here .

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21 foot sailboat cost

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The MAKO® 21 LTS is an aggressive inshore predator that's ready for any challenge. Built to specs supplied by professional redfish anglers, it sports our patented RAPID PLANING SYSTEM™ (RPS) transom, which gets you on plane fast, increases motor efficiency and increases top-end speed by feeding air-free water directly into the prop.

The hull/deck is chemically bonded 360° and mechanically fastened every 6" with stainless fasteners for a lifetime of durability. And the 21 LTS comes standard with a tandem-axle aluminum trailer and Mercury® 150HP outboard.

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Bow storage

The 136-qt. bow storage compartment is lockable to protect your gear.

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Helm rod holders

The helm features a number of rod holders, including four rocket launchers.

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The 30-gal. lighted livewell features the Pro-Air® aeration system.

Specifications

Length 6.53 m 21' 5''
Beam 2.54 m 8' 4''
Bottom Width 2.24 m 7' 4''
Max. Recommended HP 225 HP
Fuel Capacity 227.1 L 60 gal.
Max. Person Capacity 7 persons
Max. Person Weight 498.95 kg 1100 lbs.
Max. Person, Motor & Gear Weight 952.54 kg 2100 lbs.
Interior Depth 43.18 cm 17''
Transom Height At Center Line 68.58 cm 27''
Deadrise 16 degrees
Draft 30.48 cm 12''
Dry Weight 1240.58 kg 2735 lbs.
Average Hull Weight 952.54 kg 2100 lbs.
Average Package Weight 1501.39 kg 3310 lbs.
Package Height 2.77 m 9' 1''
Storage Length 8.08 m 26' 6''

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Mercury® FourStroke
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  • Backed by MAKO® Assurance 5+Life—the best factory warranty in saltwater boats
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  • 6-circuit ATO/ATC distribution fuse block
  • Marine-grade rocker switches w/push button breaker protection
  • Marine-grade tinned wiring w/submersible connectors
  • Custom tandem-axle trailer
  • Tandem-axle brakes
  • Sure Lube hubs
  • 1,000-lb. (453.59 kg) capacity tongue jack
  • Aluminum construction
  • Stainless steel hardware
  • Galvanized steel components
  • LED marker lights
  • PVC loading guides
Simrad® GO5 XSE w/transducer $675
Simrad® GO5 XSW w/DownScan transducer $825
Auto bilge w/float $20
Dual Pro® PS3 3-bank, 45-amp battery charger $515
Dual Pro® PS4 4-bank, 60-amp battery charger $640
Guest 3-bank, 30-amp battery charger $280
Guest 4-bank, 40-amp battery charger $380
SmartCraft® digital gauges $765
Remove MAKO® turn-key installation (credit given) $-250
Flush-mounted compass $175
Starboard rod storage organizer $185
Tackle box management system $300
2 flush-mounted aft rod holders $100
Hydraulic jack plate w/emergency ladder $330
Custom stainless steel steering wheel w/knob $90
Minn Kota® Riptide® SM 80 24V, 80-lb. (36.29 kg) thrust, 62" (1.57 m) shaft trolling motor (trolling battery & dealer installation not included) $1375
Minn Kota® Riptide® ST 80 24V, 80-lb. (36.29 kg) thrust, 54" (1.37 m) shaft trolling motor w/CoPilot (trolling battery & dealer installation not included) $1595
Minn Kota® Riptide® ST 80 24V, 80-lb. (36.29 kg) thrust, 62" (1.57 m) shaft trolling motor w/i-Pilot® (trolling battery & dealer installation not included) $1965
MotorGuide® Xi5 wireless 24V, 80-lb. (36.29 kg) thrust, 60" (1.52 m) shaft trolling motor w/GPS (trolling battery & dealer installation not included) $2185
2-tone hull in Gulfstream Blue, Onyx Black, Pompano Silver, Seafoam Green, Trigger Gray or Wahoo Blue $360
Powder-coated rails $350
Port & starboard side rails $340
Deluxe tournament console grab rail $440
Bike seat (includes seat, base, pole & spyder) $150
Tournament seat (includes seat, base, pole & spyder) $305
Forward & aft bike seats (includes seats, bases, poles & spyders) $320
Forward & aft tournament seats (includes seats, bases, poles & spyders) $565
1 bike & 1 tournament seat (includes seats, bases, poles & spyders) $455
Helm leaning post backrest $355
Helm leaning post & aft center seat backrests w/center cushion $985
Helm leaning post & aft center seat backrests w/port, center & starboard cushion set $1250
Aft port & starboard casting deck jump seats $125
Leaning post backrest & center cushion $595
Removable leaning post backrest w/aft port, center & starboard cushion set $795
Removable bow casting platform $700
Poling platform (includes push-pole holders & dual rod holders) $2580
Raw water washdown $205
Anchor locker/casting net tub $75
Active trim $575
Trim tabs (factory installed, mandatory w/115 motors) $880
Power-Pole® Blade 8' (2.44 m) shallow-water anchor—Black (dealer installed) $2275
2 Power-Pole® Blade 8' (2.44 m) shallow-water anchors—Black (dealer installed) $4570
Bimini top w/stainless steel frame (dealer installed only) $1125
Bimini top w/stainless steel frame & deluxe tournament console grab rail $1370
Canvas T-top $3605
Ratchet cover (fits boats w/ or w/out trolling motor, but will not fit w/T-top) $625
Spare tire kit for standard trailer w/galvanized wheel & ST215/75D14 radial tire $325
Deluxe package w/tandem torsion axles, tandem-axle brakes, aluminum wheels, aluminum spare tire carrier & wheel/tire $865

21 foot sailboat cost

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21 foot sailboat cost

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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 .

If you're the social type, make sure the boats you're considering have room enough for a group.

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.

How much does it cost to buy & own a boat?

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.

How much does it cost to buy & own a boat?

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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How Much Do Sailboats Cost 2024? The Average Prices

The cost of a sailboat can vary greatly depending on a number of features, so it’s hard to give a definitive answer without knowing requirements.

Although it’s common to think sailing’s for the rich , that isn’t always the case. In fact, you can pick up project boats for as little as $1! This is unusual though, so what can you expect to pay?

To give a rough idea, a small, basic sailboat can start at around $10,000, while high-end, luxury boats can easily exceed $1 million.

Additionally, the cost of owning and maintaining a sailboat should also be considered. This can include expenses for docking fees, insurance, repairs and upgrades, and essential sailing gear and equipment.

21 foot sailboat cost

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When we bought our sailboat four years ago we had no idea if we would like living aboard or how long we would want to cruise for. We knew we wanted a boat under 40ft so we could manage it as a crew of two (or even one if needs be), but bigger than 35ft so we had enough room to live comfortably.

Because we had a very small budget we knew we wouldn’t be able to afford a sailboat that was fully fitted out and ready to go, so we had to factor in upgrades and maintenance that we would complete ourselves as and when we could afford to.

We bought our 38ft sailboat for under £30,000, which was one of the cheapest sailboats that was ‘ready to sail’ in the size and age range at the time. Just like houses, sailboats go and up and down in price based on demand, and in today’s market it is much harder to find a boat like this in that price range.

So now that you have a bit of context, let’s dive into the factors that affect the cost of a sailboat and some average prices below.

‍W hat Factors Affect The Cost Of A Sailboat?

21 foot sailboat cost

Before buying a sailboat you will want to consider many different factors, such as what you want your sailboat for, where you intend to sail it and how many crew you are likely to have onboard.

You will want to look at the existing equipment onboard and make a list of extras you will need to fit in order to make it meet your requirements. These extra costs can quickly add up! You should also factor in any maintenance that needs to be done before you start sailing.

Let’s take a look at some of the main factors that impact the price of a sailboat.

New or Used

This is an obvious one. Used sailboats are a lot cheaper than brand new versions. Sailboats are similar to cars and lose their value over time, no matter how much work you put into them. The most common opinion is that new sailboats lose their value on a bell curve, and you will make the most of your investment if you sell a new boat within four years.

Buying a much older boat is cheaper initially, but may cost you ten fold in maintenance and upgrades if it hasn’t been looked after well by the previous owner. You should always use a well regarded surveyor before buying a sailboat to make sure you are paying a fair price.

Larger sailboats typically cost more than smaller ones. You can buy a small used sailing dinghy for around £1000, which will be suitable for hobby sailing for a few hours on lakes or close to shore in calm weather. This is a great option if you’re keen to learn to sail on a small budget.

Here are a few price comparisons on new boats of different sizes.

Average Prices Of 22ft yachts

  • Catalina 22 Sport:  $27,000 + VAT
  • Marlow Hunter 22:  $30,000 + VAT
  • Marblehead 22:  $84,000 + VAT

Average prices of 40ft – 45ft yachts

  • Lagoon 40:  $400,000 + VAT
  • Hanse 418:  $200,000 + VAT
  • Ovni 445:  $600,000 + VAT

Monohull or Multihull

21 foot sailboat cost

With two engines, two hulls and a lot more space multihulls fetch a premium. In recent years they have become more popular than ever, and therefore they are a lot more expensive both new and used than monohulls. They are also more expensive to upkeep and more expensive to run.

Well-known, high-end brands often come with a higher price tag. As you can see from the chart above, even sailboats of the same or very similar size can vary hugely in price. This is partly down to the reputation of the brand and boat manufacturer. If the boat has the reputation of being of excellent build quality then it will undoubtedly demand a higher price tag!

Additional amenities and technology can increase the cost. If you’re buying a new boat then it will likely come with all the essentials like depth souder and wind gauge (or this may be something you will need to add on as an extra). Used boats will come with whatever they come with, which may mean outdated or broken equipment, or none at all.

When we bought our used boat we drew up a spreadsheet of all the equipment we considered essential and we added missing equipment onto the cost of the sailboat, so that we knew how much extra we would have to spend after purchase.

Some things, like our sailboat watermaker , might not be essential to others but have changed our lives aboard.

Even things like our lithium marine batteries would now be on our ‘essentials’ list, as they are so power and cost effective compared to the alternatives.

⚡ We use BattleBorn batteries and recommend them highly. You can check them out here. ⚡

A used sailboat may be less expensive, but will almost certainly require more maintenance and upkeep. You can tackle a lot of boat maintenance yourself with the help of YouTube sailing channels and a decent sailboat toolkit , and this will keep costs down considerably.

‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍Overall, it is important to carefully consider all factors and do thorough research before making a purchase decision for a sailboat

The Average Cost Of A New Cruising Sailboat

21 foot sailboat cost

We’ve classed a cruising boat as one you could live on comfortably as a couple, so ranging from around 38ft to 50ft.

On average, a new cruising sailboat can cost anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million . Some popular brands, such as Beneteau and Jeanneau, offer models in the $200,000 to $400,000 range.

Luxury cruising sailboats from well-known brands like Hanse or any catamarans can easily exceed $500,000.

Of course, the cost will also depend on the size and features of the boat. A smaller, basic cruising sailboat may be closer to $100,000 while larger boats with more amenities can easily surpass the million-dollar mark.

Keep in mind that these prices do not include additional expenses for maintenance and upkeep.‍‍

Here are some examples:

  • Beneteau Oceanis 40.1 : $300,000 + VAT
  • Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 410 : $400,000
  • Amel 50:  $1,100,000 + VAT
  • Hallberg Rassy 57:  £1,400,000  VAT

Used Cruising Sailboat Prices

21 foot sailboat cost

The cost of a used cruising sailboat will depend on factors such as age, condition, and previous ownership.

A well-maintained, newer model used sailing boat can range from $50,000 to over $200,000. Older boats or those in need of repairs may be less expensive, but require more investment in upkeep and maintenance. You could pick up a used 38ft sailboat for around $40,000, though it will likely need some attention before it is ready to sail.

It is important to thoroughly inspect a used sailboat before purchasing and factor in potential repair costs. As with buying a new boat, the cost of owning and maintaining a used sailboat should also be considered. ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍

Overall, the price of a used cruising sailboat can vary greatly and it is hard to give an average price, but expect to pay around $50,000 to $100,000 and then extra for maintenance.

  • Tayana 37:  $30,000-90,000
  • Moody 44:  €60,000-100,000
  • Lagoon 380:  $150,000-350,000
  • Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42:  $130,000-200,000
  • Ovni 445:  $300,000-500,000
  • Hans Christian 48:  $120,000-180,000

How Much Does A Small Sailboat Cost?

Small sailboats, also known as dinghies or day sailors, can range from around $10,000 to $50,000. This cost will depend on factors such as size, brand, and features.

Used small sailboats may be less expensive, but it is important to carefully consider the condition and potential repairs that may be needed. A well-maintained, newer model used dinghy or day sailor can range from $5,000 to $20,000. Again, small catamarans tend to be more expensive than monohulls.

In addition to the initial purchase cost, owning a small sailboat also includes expenses for storage, maintenance, and necessary gear and equipment.

  • Hobie 16:  $11,000 + VAT
  • Catalina 22 Sport:  $28,000 + VAT
  • Catalina 22:  $3,000-22,000
  • Cape Dory 25:  $2,000-10,000
  • Catalina 27:  $4,000-15,000
  • Bristol 27:  $3,000-10,000

How Do People Finance Sailboats?

21 foot sailboat cost

Sailboats can be a major financial investment, and many people choose to finance their purchase through a loan from a bank or other lending institution. It is important to carefully consider the terms of the loan and make sure that monthly payments fit into one’s budget.

Some boat dealers may offer financing options or payment plans. However, it is important to thoroughly research these options and compare them with outside lenders before making a decision.

In some cases, people may also use savings or sell assets in order to pay for a sailboat.

In addition to the initial cost of purchasing a sailboat, it is important to also factor in expenses for maintenance, storage, insurance, and necessary gear and equipment. Owning a sailboat can be a rewarding experience, but it is important to carefully plan for all associated costs before making a financial commitment. ‍‍‍‍‍‍

You can find out the cost of owning a sailboat before you decide to buy, and don’t forget it is possible to make money living on a sailboat to keep the kitty topped up. ‍‍

Overall, the cost of owning a sailboat varies greatly and depends on personal preferences and budget. It is important to thoroughly research all financing options and consider the ongoing expenses before committing to a purchase.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Sailboat?

21 foot sailboat cost

The cost of building a sailboat can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the boat. Hiring a professional to build a custom sailboat can range from $50,000 to over $200,000.

Alternatively, some people may choose to build their own sailboat with materials and tools. This option can be less expensive, but also requires considerable time and effort. The cost of building a sailboat oneself will also depend on the materials used and any necessary equipment or hired help.

Overall, the cost of building a sailboat is quite personal based on budget, sailing needs, and willingness to DIY or hire professionals. Remember that if you choose to build the boat yourself you will need a covered space big enough to do so, and a way to transport it to water when you’re finished. All these costs can add up considerably!

Where Is The Cheapest Place To Buy A Sailboat?

21 foot sailboat cost

Prices can vary by region and market demand. When we were first looking for a sailboat we realised they were a lot cheaper in the US. The only problem with buying there was that we wouldn’t have been able to get a visa long enough to give us time to work on the boat before leaving the country.

Another top tip is to look for sailboats in places that are ‘jump off points’. For example, many people will cross the Atlantic and sell after achieving their dream of crossing an ocean, or reach the beginning of a daunting ocean crossing like Panama to cross the Pacific, and realise it’s something they don’t have an appetite for. There are also cheaper boats in more remote, harder to get to places.

Some people may choose to purchase their sailboat in a different country or region in order to find a lower price, but it is important to factor in any necessary transportation and import fees.

Keep an eye on prices of boats around the world to get a good idea of where you can snap up the best bargain.

Conclusion: How Much Do Sailboats Cost?

21 foot sailboat cost

All in all, the cost of a sailboat can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, age, and whether it is purchased or built. It is important to thoroughly consider all financing options and ongoing expenses before making a commitment to purchase or build a sailboat.

Find out how much new sails cost as an example of something you might have to budget for when purchasing a new sailboat.

Ultimately, owning a sailboat can be a rewarding experience but careful planning is necessary for successful budgeting and enjoyment. ‍‍‍‍‍‍If you’re looking for more sailing or liveaboard tips then follow us on social media to stay up to date with our latest articles.

Happy sailing!

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21 foot sailboat cost

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Transport a Sailboat - Costs & How To Ship

Transport a Sailboat: Costs & How To Guide | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Sailboat transport is an essential and very well-established boating service with numerous options.

Sailboats can be transported by single-axle trailers, multi-axle trailers, cargo ships, and occasionally trains. Sailboats can also be transported across an ocean on their own with the help of a hired captain and crew. Costs vary widely based on size and type, and they range from $200 to more than $15,000.

In this article, we’ll cover several of the most common sailboat transportation methods. We’ll cover the details and requirements of each method, along with the required method by sailboat size and type. Additionally, we’ll explore the average costs of each method for a typical production cruising sailboat.

We sourced the information used in this article from sailboat transport agencies along with government towing and transportation guides. We carefully researched pricing to help you get a basic idea of what it’ll cost to transport a sailboat.

Table of contents

‍ Is Transporting a Sailboat Difficult?

It’s not necessarily difficult to transport a sailboat, but it does require care and careful planning. Your responsibilities as the sailboat owner range from trailer maintenance and careful driving to the organization of international logistics. In this article, we’ll discuss ways to streamline the process and make it easier.

Is Sailboat Transport Expensive?

Sailboat transport can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Obviously, moving a small sailboat is relatively cheap in comparison, especially if you already have a truck and a trailer.

The cost of transporting a larger boat is higher, as you’ll probably need to hire a shipping company or a crew.

There are multiple ways to transport a large sailboat, and the more economical method isn’t always immediately evident. Some boats may be cheaper to ship on a specially-designed yacht carrying vessel, while others may be cheaper if you hire a delivery crew.

Pricing varies between boats, locations, and destinations, so it’s essential to research all available methods and request multiple quotes. If you do, you could save thousands on transport and delivery, not to mention insurance costs to protect your vessel from possible damage.

Sailboat Transport Methods

There are several ways to transport a sailboat, and the ideal method depends upon the size and dry weight of the vessel. Dry weight is distinct from displacement, so it’s important to ensure that you have the correct number. Here are the most common ways to transport sailboats short and long distances.

Self Towing

Some sailboats can be towed, though the vehicle, trailer type, and license requirements vary based on size. The smallest and lightest dinghies and pocket cruisers can be towed by most typical cars, provided you have a heavy-duty tow hitch installed.

Larger sailboats, in the 20-foot range and longer, usually need to be towed by a pickup truck or SUV. A half-ton gasoline pickup truck is sufficient for lighter vessels, as long as the dry weight doesn’t exceed the vehicle’s towing capacity.

Also, remember that some automakers determine towing capacity under ideal test conditions, so your truck’s actual towing ability may be slightly lower than its rating.

You’ll have to collapse or remove the mast, boom, and standing rigging of the sailboat and secure it, regardless of its size.

Most trailer sailers can be towed by half-ton or 3/4 ton single rear wheel trucks. Larger sailboats, such as towable coastal cruisers, may require a multi-axle trailer and a gooseneck. This setup is often found with a dually 3/4 ton or 1-ton truck.

The Basics of Towing Rules in the United States

The rules of the road are clear when it comes to towing. With a Class C license (a standard driver’s license), the maximum overall trailer length you can tow is 60 feet. The maximum length of a Class C trailer surface is 53 feet.

Length usually isn’t the issue when it comes to towing sailboats. The maximum width of a class C trailer is 8 ft 6 in, which includes the items on the trailer. The regulations mean that the beam of your boat can’t exceed about 8 feet, give or take a couple of inches.

With a more advanced license or a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you can tow a much larger trailer and drive a semi-truck. Some larger sailboats with greater beam width can be towed this way, though only if they remain below the maximum height.

Height requirements for trailers vary between 13 ft, 6 inches to 14 ft, depending on the location. This is measured from the ground to the top of the item on the trailer.

Be sure to plan your route carefully if you’re towing a boat with a full keel, as some older overpasses and railroad bridges are much shorter than 13 feet. 

Professional Towing Services

It’s usually best to leave the towing to professionals, especially if you’re towing a large boat. Experienced drivers with big rigs and commercial licenses can transport surprisingly large vessels safely but at a cost. The benefit of using a professional service is that you’re taking the risk off your shoulders.

Many professional towing services offer insurance, which is essential. Insurance protects the loading and unloading of the boat and covers any damages that occur en route. For the price, it’s a no-brainer.

In most cases, the tow company will not be able to help you launch your boat. You’re responsible for arranging boat crane services at your destination. It’s best to plan carefully, as you may end up paying more if you make the driver wait too long.

Cost of Professional Sailboat Towing Services

Cost varies widely based on the company, location, and size of the load. Most towing companies have a base fee, a fee of the assessed load, and then a per-mile charge. Some companies have different fee structures.

Companies that offer quotes usually predict a charge of between $500 and $1,000 for typical trips, though it can cost as little as $300 if you have a relatively small boat and it only needs to travel a short distance.

Shipping a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Large and small sailboats are frequently sent across oceans via cargo ships. This method is time-tested and relatively cost-effective, though it’s not as straightforward as just sailing the boat across.

Some people hire an agent to arrange shipping, which is the easiest and most reliable way to have a headache-free experience.

Shipping a sailboat by sea is slower than over-the-road transport, and schedules are less flexible. Often, you’ll have to wait for a spot to open up on a specifically-designed yacht carrying ship.

Once the ships are loaded, they set out at predetermined times that might be months ahead of when you booked. The best way to ensure you get a spot on a yacht shipping vessel is to plan well in advance of when you actually need to transport the vessel.

Logistics are the greatest challenge of shipping a boat on a larger ship. If you don’t work with an agent or an accommodating shipping company, you could have to work out the following and more:

  • Transportation to the shipping yard
  • Loading and securing instructions
  • Shipping destination
  • Payments to various services
  • Customs in the destination country (if outside of the U.S.)
  • Taxes and import fees
  • Declarations
  • Inspections
  • Unloading at the destination
  • Transportation from the destination port to the marina

As you can see, there are lots of reasons to hire a professional to manage the minutiae of shipping a sailboat. The last thing you want is to have your boat seized at customs or have it dropped off in an unguarded yard in the wrong location.

Cost to Ship a Sailboat on a Cargo Ship

Shipping costs for ocean-going boat transport are lower than many people expect. A lot of factors are involved, including the size of the boat, its height (from keel to mast top), its displacement, and the distance it needs to be shipped.

The lowest prices you’ll find to ship an average-sized boat are around $3,000 to $5,000. A more typical estimate for an average sailboat is between $6,000 and $10,000. Some vessels and destinations cost upwards of $15,000. Costs tend to increase with the size and distance, and the value of your sailboat also plays a part.

Prices in the yacht shipping industry are competitive, which is why it’s relatively affordable to ship a boat over an ocean. It’s surprisingly popular as well, and there are more than a dozen shipping companies offering long-distance ocean transport specifically for yachts of various sizes.

Hired Delivery

Hired crews for boat delivery is the other way to transport a sailboat over the water. Crew services find a captain and a small professional crew to sail your boat for you.

This is a great option for large boats, as it’s often less expensive and time-consuming than shipping it on a larger vessel.

Hired crew delivery services are offered by companies and experienced individuals. You can even find a trusted friend to crew your boat for you, and they can hire a crew member or two to accompany them for the journey.

While under hire, the crew will be living in your boat. Crew members come from all backgrounds, and many sailors spend a summer or two working for a charter service to make some money or get free transportation to other countries.

Cost to Hire a Delivery Crew

Hired crew delivery costs vary, though the more hands you need, the more it costs. Crews and captains usually charge daily rates for yacht delivery services. A fast sailboat is almost always cheaper to transport than a slow sailboat.

As an example, we’ll use the services of Captain James Lowe , who is a USCG licensed 200-ton Master. As of the writing of this article, Captain James Lowe charges between $350 and $425 per day for his services, depending on the size of the vessel. Deckhands cost $175 per day per person, which is in addition to the Captain’s charges.

These are the base rates, and they’re a good representation of what professional crewed delivery costs. You may find cheaper rates with other groups or individuals, but it’s worth the cost if you want a trustworthy and experienced crew.

Additional charges often include transportation costs (to and from the destinations), fuel costs (for heating, cooking, and motoring), and a deposit is usually required for fuel. These costs are impossible to predict without knowing your specific plans, so it’s best to reach out to Captain James Lowe for a specialized quote.

Hired crew delivery services usually have a minimum crew requirement for different boat sizes and types. In this case, sailboats require a minimum of one deckhand in addition to a captain. Larger sailing vessels of 65 feet or greater require two or more additional deckhands.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How Much Does a Boat Cost in 2024? (With Ownership Costs)

rob

Residents all across the US are buying more boats than ever before. From kayaks and canoes to the most luxurious and opulent yachts, manufacturers are struggling to keep up. But with so many potential buyers being first-timers, the question will inevitably come up, “roughly how much does a boat cost?”

How Much Does a Boat Cost?

What determines boat price, renting vs. buying a boat, cost of owning a boat, total cost of boat ownership.

An average 20’ boat used can often be found for between $10,000 and $20,000. The same boat bought new would likely be $40,000 to $60,000. One of the biggest factors that will impact the price is the style of the boat, with the length of the boat figuring heavily as well.

Buying used boats will always save you money getting the boat into your hands initially, but they will almost always cost more in maintenance and repairs during the term of ownership.

All boats, though, will require maintenance and additional costs associated with ownership. Below is a quick rundown of common boat types and what they can be found for new and used where applicable.

Boat TypeCommon usesSize Used PriceNew PricePopular Model 
Bowrider boatsWatersports, cruising, fishingUnder 20’$10,000-$25,000$15,000-$30,000
Pontoon BoatsLeisure, fishing18’-25’$8,000-$12,000$19,000-$65,000
Fishing BoatsFishing16’-25’$5,000-$10,000$30,000+
Cabin CruisersCruising, leisure25’-45’$100,000$250,000+
SpeedboatsWatersports20’-30’$20,000$30,000+
Cuddy CabinsCruising18’-28’$20,000-$30,000$50,000
SailboatsCruising, leisure30’-35’$20,000$80,000+
YachtsLeisure, cruising30’-100’+$150,000$250,000+

There are several factors that will affect the cost of a boat. Firstly you will need to determine what type of boat you are buying after which it will be a choice between buying used or new. Each will have its own benefits and drawbacks, both short and long term.

The boat price range will also depend on the time of year during which you buy. The same boat, priced at off-season and during full-swing boating season, may have a price that differs by 5%-15%. This can mean a difference of thousands, depending on what type of boat is being shopped.

Other factors that influence the pricing for boats will be the age, the features, the condition, and whether it is being bought from a dealer or a private party. All other things being equal, a boat will generally be cheaper when bought from a private party than from any sort of dealer or marina.

Used vs. New Boats

Many first-time boat buyers find themselves wondering if they should buy a new boat or a used boat. There are several benefits as well as drawbacks for both. Depending on your time and resources, there may be a clear-cut best choice for you, or you may still have to do some thinking.

While the used boat market will definitely save you money initially, which can be incredibly powerful when shopping, you may ultimately find that the boat maintenance cost that you experience is more than initially expected.

This will fluctuate in accordance with the level of care that the previous owner or owners maintained. If you are more budget-conscious, however, a used boat may be best since you can save later by doing your own repairs.

If you have more money than time or patience, the new boat cost may not be that offputting, since it may ultimately mean less repair cost and shop time during the term of ownership. Bear in mind, however, that buying a new boat will not relieve you of routine maintenance like oil changes. 

Size and Style

Just like with other vehicles, boats come in different sizes and styles , which affects the boat price. If you are looking for a fishing boat, expect to spend more than a canoe. If you really like the 24’ model over the 22’ model, understand that your sticker price will likely be higher for a base model. 

Before you make any final decisions about the size and style of boat you are going to start shopping for, make sure you think hard about how it will be used in the future.

If you plan to take a lot of guests out, make sure you have the capacity for that. If you will only ever take out a maximum of 3 or 4 people, there’s no need to spend a robust sum on something that has 8 seats, when a medium-sized boat will suffice.

Always remember not to buy beyond your experience level. If you are a new boat owner, ideal boats are most likely going to be 15’ to 18’ in length and have a modest engine.

If you get a boat that you aren’t ready to operate in the hopes that you’ll “grow into it” you can be putting yourself in a dangerous situation. Bigger boats also mean increased boat mooring costs.

One of the things that will have the biggest impact on the price of a boat is the feature set that it is equipped with. Boats can have a surprising amount of features, upgrades, and tech gadgets that can add significantly to the cost.

Some of the features that affect the average boat price include cutting-edge chartplotters, built-in media systems, specialty (often LED) lighting, battery chargers and maintainers, swim or diving platforms, hydraulic steering , autopilot functionality, and GPS position holding.

Higher-end boats may even feature additional comfort or even luxury features that greatly increase the boat cost.

This can include things like joystick steering controls, vacuum head systems, custom flooring, countertops, or finishes, satellite weather systems, and even climate-controlled cockpits and cabins. 

In many areas, particularly those that incorporate leisure watersports or sport fishing, rental boats may be available. This can be very convenient for those who do not own a boat and can allow you to get out on the water with only the most minimal investment in boat costs.

Some of the upsides to renting a boat include never having to worry about the costs of owning a boat or the time investment of maintenance that the boat will require. This is the perfect option for those who may only get out on the water a couple of times per year, and it removes the burden of off-season storage.

There are some downsides to renting, however. With rentals, don’t have to pay for the cost of boat ownership, but you may not be guaranteed to get the boat that you want, even with reservations. You also generally rent very basic boats that are limited in range and ability. Some rental locations also do not allow nighttime navigation, which can be restrictive.

Boating costs $1,000 to $6,000 in expenses yearly, on average. The costs of owning a boat don’t end with the price of the boat and the first tank of gas. There are significant costs associated with owning a boat, some are costs like taxes and registration that you would have on any vehicle, and some are going to be unique to boating.

If you don’t plan ahead for a lot of the boat ownership costs it can end up costing you more in the long run. Some of the additional things that many beginners don’t think about include: 

  • Boat fuel cost 
  • Marina costs 
  • Boat launch fees
  • Seasonal maintenance
  • Boat repair costs
  • Seasonal storage
  • Transportation, in the case of some larger boats

Boater education is incredibly important for the safety and enjoyment of your boating experience. Taking a formal boater education course ensures that you have the foundational knowledge needed to safely and effectively operate your boat. It can also save you a bit on your boat insurance.

Too many first-time boat owners assume that if they buy the boat and are exempt or not required to have a license, that they can just go out and boat.

Many states do not require boater education, but there are also many that do, and if you test and get certified by a NASBLA body, you can use the certificate anywhere.

Requirement : Essential for safe operation Frequency : One time Cost : <$100-$500

Just like your other vehicles, you’ll need to register or license your boat . The fees and process will vary greatly by state, but the fees range from around $20 up to over $200. They will often be determined by the type of vessel and its length, as well as the length of time that the boat is registered for. 

Once registered, you will receive some type of registration proof to keep with your vessel. You will also be assigned a registration number that you will need to affix to the bow of your boat with reflective stickers.

Requirement : Required for all powered boats Frequency : Varies by location, from yearly up to lifetime Cost : $20 to $200

Just like everything else in life you will need to pay taxes on your boat. The severity of this tax obligation will depend heavily on where you live. The feds won’t take a cut, but you will need to pay the state as well as any local taxes owed. 

The sales tax will only be paid once, and that will happen at the point of sale. The other types of tax that may apply are a use tax, if you somehow avoided paying sales tax, this will be paid to the jurisdiction where the boat is most often used. The personal property tax is the one that will hit you every year, just like any other vehicle.

Requirement : Mandatory for all boats Frequency : Yearly Cost : Varies by location

Maintenance Cost 

All boats will need maintenance , which should be expected as part of the cost of owning a boat, regardless of the size or type. However, maintenance costs are one of the costs that can be largely avoided by renting.

If you own your own boat, you will need to plan for maintenance items to be taken care of before and after each outing, some maintenance that will only need to be done a few times per year if you are really active boaters, and some maintenance that is only going to be needed on a seasonal basis. 

You will need fresh water flushes, oil changes, steering system inspections and maintenance, deck and seat cleaning and maintenance, hull inspections, propeller inspection and replacement, potential anchor replacement, and more.

Good operation and preventative measures can minimize abnormal maintenance costs. 

Requirement : Required on all boats Frequency : Routine and seasonal Cost : $1,000-$6,000

Fuel cost is something that can creep up on you if you don’t stay aware of your boat’s fuel situation. Operating a boat uses fuel, just like any other vehicle. The fuel cost for your boat will be measured in a similar fashion to your car or truck. 

Some small, single-person boats can keep an angler on the water all day on just 1-2 gallons of gas or less. Small rental fishing boats may have a 5-gallon tank which is more than enough for them, while the same amount of gas in a boat meant for towing waterskiers or tubes will burn that gas much faster.

Estimate your fuel cost ahead of time by making sure that you are familiar with the consumption rate of your boat. You can also save gas by keeping the revs lower and learning how to properly adjust your trim. Fuel costs may be included in your monthly marina cost as well if you lease space with one.

Requirement : Required in all powered boats Frequency : As needed Cost : Current gasoline market value, plus oil depending on the engine

Boat Trailer and Tow Vehicle

When you own a boat, unless it’s a relatively large boat that cannot be transported personally, you will need a vehicle to tow it and a trailer to put it on. These are essential for nearly all boat owners, though many will not buy a boat if they have to way to move it. 

Your trailer must be capable of carrying the weight of the boat and any other cargo on the boat at the time of loading. Trailers must also be frequently inspected to ensure safety and functionality, and in most states, your trailer must be registered just as any vehicle, which can be its own annual expense.

Requirement : Required for all powered boats Frequency : Once Cost : Varies, some boats include, otherwise avg. $3,000

Requirement : Requirement Frequency : Once Cost : N/A

Boat Insurance

When you own a boat you need to protect it, and that means taking out an insurance policy on it. This ensures that if something were to happen to the craft that it would be covered. It is generally illegal to operate a boat without current insurance on it.

Getting insurance on a boat can be a relatively cheap task, particularly if you’ve taken the time to finish a boater safety course and obtain your safety certificate. Most insurance policies for boats will only cost between $20 and $50 per month for average vessels. 

Insurance is also vital protection in the event that someone else is injured on your boat. Without insurance, you could face personal liability in the event that something were to happen while passengers were aboard.

Requirement : Required Frequency : Monthly/Quarterly/Yearly Cost : $20-$50 per month

Winter Storage

In most areas, the boating season is only so long and when the weather starts to get cooler it’s often seen as the time to get the boat ready for storage. In many cases with smaller boats, they can be easily over-wintered in the owner’s garage if proper precautions are taken. 

Boat owners can also rent an off-season storage space in a facility that will keep them secure and tended. Boats have batteries that must be maintained with charging, and unattended boats are the perfect place for pests and vermin to start to gather. 

Having someone manage that for you can take a lot of stress and clutter out of your garage or storage unit. Indoor storage is often more than $50 per square foot of space needed, while outdoor storage can run about half of that.

Requirement : Required in all but equatorial regions Frequency : Yearly Cost : $525-$200 per square foot

Mooring and Marina Fees

This is essential for those who live in areas where you will be boating often and will not want to trailer your boat from storage to the launch each time. If there is a marina nearby, you can often rent or lease a  boat slip to park your boat in during the season. 

They frequently charge by the size of the boat and the amenities requested, like charging or freshwater supply. Not only do they allow you to keep your boat ready to go out at a moment’s notice, but they often are well-secured and safer than other storage locations. 

Requirement : Optional Frequency : Monthly/Yearly Cost : $50-$1,000 per month

Equipment and Accessories

When planning to buy a boat, safety gear should always be considered part of the overall purchase cost.

Paddles, life jackets, signal flares, a horn, and many other things are important to have onboard before you hit the water in your boat for the first time.

In fact, there are some items that are required for you to have at all times.

Required safety equipment:

  • Fire extinguishers
  • Life jackets and wearable personal floatation devices
  • Throwable flotation devices
  • Visual signaling devices
  • Sound signaling devices

Additional accessories, like lighting, watersports equipment, and stereos are a fun addition to your boating experience, although they aren’t required. If your equipment budget is limited for now, you can always purchase the necessities and add exciting upgrades as you are able to.

Requirement : Some safety equipment is required Frequency : As needed Cost : $500

As you can see, there is a lot more to boat ownership than just buying a boat. The first-time boat buyer, buying a new boat with a trailer for a modest $15,000, and towing it with their existing vehicle, can still expect to spend more than an additional $5,400 the first year alone, expecting minimal maintenance on a new boat.

Buying a used boat may save you on the initial purchase price, but depending on how the last owner treated her you may be in for a lot of shop time. 

If you are not a first-time boat owner and you’re looking to try and estimate your yearly ownership costs on a bigger, more expensive boat, there are a few ways you can ballpark that estimate. The most popular is a yearly cost of ten percent of the purchase price, before adding in seasonal storage, which can easily double that number.

Boat price: $15,000 Education: $100 Licenses: $100 Taxes: $30 Maintenance: $1,500 Fuel: $200 Trailer: $0 Towing vehicle: $0 Insurance: $300 Winter storage: $2,500 Mooring: $240 Equipment: $500

How much does a boat cost per month?

If your annual boat maintenance costs you $2,400, for example, that would make your monthly burden about $500.

How much does a boat cost to rent?

You can frequently rent a simple fishing boat for around $400 per 8 hour day, while a pontoon boat may run twice as much, plus fuel.

How much does it cost to dock a boat? 

If you rent a boat slip from a marina, you can expect to pay between $100 and $1,000 per month, depending on your boat.

How much does it cost to maintain a boat? 

Your maintenance costs will vary depending on boat use, but it will be a significant portion of the yearly cost of ownership.

How much does it cost to own a boat? 

The average cost of boat ownership for most fishing or pleasure crafts will be between $1,000 and $6,000 per year.

How much does it cost to own a yacht? 

Plan on a yearly cost of around 10% of the value of the boat, so a $10 million dollar yacht will cost about one million per year.

How much does a used boat cost? 

Some used boats can be on your trailer heading home with you for a couple of hundred bucks, some others a couple of thousand.

How much does a big boat cost? 

Some of the biggest private boats, like large yachts, can cost more than $1,000,000 for every foot of total boat length.

How much does a small boat cost? 

Small boats, like jon boats or small bass boats, may only cost a few hundred if bought used on the private market.

How much does a new boat cost? 

This will depend greatly on what type of boat you want and what it’s going to be for, the basic boats start around $1,000.

How much does a riverboat cost? 

Depending on what you’re looking for in your riverboat you may be able to pay as little as $12,000, though they do go for $40,000 or more in some cases.

How much does a speed boat cost? 

A speedboat can frequently be found used for around $30,000 without a cabin. Larger or more powerful boats may have a cockpit.

How much does a motorboat cost?

A run-of-the-mill motorboat will cost you, on average, between $10,000 and $20,000 with more extravagant models going for much more.

How much does a cabin cruiser cost?

The average mid-range cabin cruisers will cost about $250,000 and budget models at about half that amount.

How much does a fishing boat cost?

Fishing boats can commonly be found for around $10,000, increasing significantly with features and options.

How much does a ski boat cost? 

The average ski boat will set you back about $150,000, for a common and relatively basic model with average features. 

How much does a sailboat cost? 

Sailboats range quite a bit in their price, being found on the used market for $20,000 while new ones can cost $80,000 or more.

How much does a yacht cost? 

Some basic yachts can be found for $250,000, though most new luxury yachts will cost up to $1 million per foot in length.

How much does a bass boat cost? 

Bass boats can range in cost greatly, from budget models starting around $10,000 to high-end tournament fishing boats for $70,000.

How much does a bay boat cost?

If you are looking for a bay boat, you can reasonably expect to pay at least $10,000 for a relatively capable craft.

How much does a bowrider cost?

Some of the more basic bowrider boats will cost $15,000 new, with longer boats or more feature-dense crafts reaching $50,000 or more.

How much does a center console boat cost?

Used center console boats are available on the private market for around $10,000, while premium models and features can cost tens of thousands more.

How much does a convertible boat cost? 

New convertible boats can be obtained for as little as $14,000-$15,000, while some models and options packages will push the price well over $50,000.

How much does a power cruiser cost?

The market for power cruisers isn’t cheapest by any means, and a new power cruiser will often be around $100,000 for a relatively basic vessel.

How much does a cuddy cabin cost?

Even the most basic cuddy cabin bought new will cost around $50,000, with options and features boosting the price from there.

How much does a deck boat cost?

Buying a new deck boat will cost you at least $20,000 for basic models, with more powerful or extravagant models pushing $60,000 and more.

How much does a flat boat cost?

Most flats boats can be found for around $25,000-$30,000 from major names, with some being under $10,000.

How much does a high-performance powerboat cost?

New performance powerboats have an average price of around $80,000, however, the average used boat prices are far lower and hover around $30,000.

How much does a house boat cost?

The average cost of a houseboat is usually around $50,000, but you should double-check the marina policies to ensure houseboats don’t incur larger docking costs.

How much does an inflatable boat cost?

For more robust inflatable boats, the average cost is going to be about $1,000, with a range of a few hundred dollars to either side, usually. 

How much does a jon boat cost?

If you like cheap boats, a jon boat is perfect and you can usually buy one used for around $500, with brand new boats going for around $1,000 or more.

How much does a pontoon boat cost?

If you are looking for brand new boats, the average boat cost for a pontoon boat will be between $18,000 and $50,000 in most cases.

How much does a catamaran cost? 

If you’re looking for a catamaran the average cost of a boat that has been used is around $35,000, and upwards of a million for more serious crafts bought new.

How much does a runabout boat cost?

Runabout boats are incredibly popular and they can start at around $12,000 for a basic starter and up to $80,000 for more opulent crafts.

How much does a trawler boat cost?

Lots of people considering buying a new boat are looking into trawler-type boats and even used they can cost around $13,000.

How much does a walkaround boat cost?

If you are in the market for a walkaround boat, you can plan to spend about $8,000 for a used one on the open market.

rob

Robert Owens is the Chief of Content of Quicknav. Robert has been boating for over ten years and loves to share his experience on the water. His first boat was a dirt-cheap moderately beat up 2003 Bayliner 175, where he learned a tremendous amount about trailering, launching, docking, operating, and maintaining. He currently owns a Cruiser Yacht and is eyeing a sailboat.

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How Much Does a Boat Cost? (Price Chart)

How Much Does A Boat Cost? (Price Chart)

Most people believe that the average boat price is astronomical, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Basically, the boat value depends on the type you choose, its model, brand, size, and location where you live. Interestingly, there is no simple answer to how much money to set aside for a vessel.

It can be any number between $500 to $10,000,000, and the price range is wide even in the same boat category. On the other hand, a holistic market analysis will show you that an average price is approximately $42,000 for a new and $10,000 for a used boat. Let’s take a closer look.

How Much Does a Boat Cost?

How Much Does a Boat Cost

In most cases, you should set aside 30% to 50% less for a used boat than for the same but new one. Research shows that the average boat price is $42,000 for a brand new vessel and $10,000 for a used one.

A typical price for most common boats is actually under $20,000, making them more affordable than most people believe. In fact, it is cheaper than an average American vehicle!

The price you should pay will depend on several crucial things. Therefore, you can become a boat owner for only a few hundred dollars for a Jon boat or $10,000,000 for a luxury yacht . The price range significantly varies, even in the same vessel category.

Size and style

Here, things are simple. If you want a more sizable boat, you will need to pay more. Cost is higher for models with enclosed cockpits and will go up the bigger it is. You should consider an open-top boat if you are looking for a less expensive option.

As you can guess, purchasing a boat with a recognizable brand can be expensive, but its re-selling price will also be higher. Plus, a high-quality model will pay off in the long run.

New vs. used

As expected, a used boat will be less expensive than a new one, but it can be tricky and costly to customize it. Plus, you can experience expensive repairs when buying the vessel from an owner who neglected it.

On the other hand, you can often find an excellent model at an affordable price and stay satisfied for years. One of the best options is to look at one of the popular, user-friendly platforms like ZeBoats to find direct owner offers and purchase a boat without additional commission.

Season and location

Be aware that boat prices are always higher during the season when the demand is higher. For instance, the same cabin cruiser you can buy for $100,000 in the off-season will probably cost you $500,000 during peak season. Plus, buying a boat at luxury destinations is always more pricey.

Features and extras

You should be aware that the boat price is not the only expense you will have, and you should consider necessary accessories costs before purchasing. The most popular features include:

  • Battery chargers
  • Windlass anchors
  • Power steering
  • GPS position holding and autopilot
  • Chartplotters
  • Satellite weather tracking
  • Stereo and AV systems
  • Air conditioning

Finally, boat type is the crucial factor that affects the price. Remember that each vessel category has an expecting price range so that you can plan your budget according to it.

Average Boat Prices by Type

Jon boat

This small, rectangular vessel with a flat bottom is an ideal option for fishing and waterfowl hunting in streams, lakes, and channels. Most common models made of wood or aluminum are 8 to 18 feet (2.5 – 5.5 m) long.

The price will depend on the Jon boat type you want to buy. You should set aside approximately $1,000 to $3,000 for a simple boat. However, the price range starts from $500 for a used vessel to $5,000 for luxury models.

Fishing boat

Fishing boat

The term fishing boat can mean numerous things, so it is tricky to determine its price precisely. This vessel has more open deck space and less seating space than most other boats. Their price will vary depending on the type and size.

  • Small, 16 to 20 feet (5 – 6 m) long fishing boat

This range includes:

  • Small center consoles
  • Dual consoles

Their prices typically range from $10,000 to $50,000.

  • Mid-sized, 20 to 25 feet (6 – 7.6 m) long fishing boat

This range includes fishing boats for offshore use. You can find various models and brands that will cost you $50,000 to $100,000.

  • Large twin-engine, 25 to 30 feet (7.6 – 9 m) long fishing boat

It is an excellent boat for offshore fishing, but it can be pricey. An average model in this range will cost you $150,000 to $300,000. Considering that, most people choose used models instead of new ones.

You should set aside $3,000 to $60,000 for a used aluminum fishing boat if you choose this option. The price of an inshore model for use in ponds and lakes is approximately $25,000. On the other hand, a sizable offshore aluminum model will cost at least $100,000.

A used fiberglass fishing boat can cost you $10,000 to $80,000, depending on used hours, condition, make, and model. You can get an excellent used inshore fiberglass fishing boat for less than $30,000, while a big offshore fiberglass vessel can reach $150,000 or even more.

Jon boat 8 to 24 feet

(2.5 – 7.3 m)

$500 to $5,000 $500 to $1,000 Fishing
Fishing boat (aluminum) 18 feet (5.5 m) $5,000 to $200,000 $3,000 to $150,000 Fishing
Catamaran 40 to 45 feet

(12 – 13.7 m)

$10,000 to $600,000 $10,000+ Sailing
Sailboat 30 to 35 feet

(9 – 10.5 m)

$12,000 to $500,000 $20,000 Cruising, leisure
Bowrider boat Under 20 feet

(<6 m)

$15,000 to $100,000 $10,000 to $25,000 Cruising, crabbing, fishing
Pontoon boat 18 to 25 feet

(5.5 – 7.6 m)

$19,000 to $90,000 $8,000 to $50,000 Fishing, cruising
Bass boat 16 to 25 feet

(5 – 7.6 m)

$20,000 to $90,000 $15,000 to $40,000 Catching bass fish
Houseboat 45 to 100 feet (13.7 – 30.5 m) $20,000 to $1,000,000 $20,000 Housing
Airboat 16 feet (4.9 m) $30,000 to $100,000 $5,000 to $40,000 Fishing and ecotourism
Fishing boat (fiberglass) 16 to 25 feet

(5 – 7.6 m)

$30,000 to $250,000 $10,000 to $200,000 Fishing
Speedboat 20 to 30 feet

(6 – 9 m)

$30,000 to $75,000 $20,000 Watersports
Cuddy cabin boat 18 to 28 feet

(5.5 – 8.5 m)

$30,000 to $200,000 $10,000 to $100,000 Cruising
Trawler 80 to 90 feet (24.5 – 27.5 m) $90,000 to $500,000+ $50,000+ Fishing
Cabin cruiser 25 to 45 feet

(7.6 – 13.7 m)

$100,000 to $500,000 $20,000 to $300,000 Cruising
Yacht 30 to 100+ feet

(9 – 30.5 m)

$500,000 to $10,000,000 $300,000 to $10,000,000 Cruising

Catamaran

This boat is unique thanks to its two hulls that provide exceptional stability and a cabin between them. This spacious vessel is typically 40 to 45 feet (12 – 13.7 m) long, but some models can be over 150 feet (46 m) in length.

As you can guess, their price range is vast. While small models can cost you a modest $10,000, you can find a large one with a cabin at an average price of $600,000.

Sailboat

An average sailboat price will differ depending on the boat type you choose:

  • Motor sailer
  • Cruising boat
  • Racing boat

You can pick out a less than 20 feet (6 m) long model to sizable, 80 to 100 feet (24.5 – 30.5 m) long vessels. Such a long sailboat can reach an astonishing $10,000,000.

The most common sailboat is 30 to 35 feet (9 – 10.5 m) long, and you can purchase one for $12,000 to $500,000. A used vessel will be more affordable, and you should set aside about the third to quarter of the new boat’s price. In that case, a decent sailboat will cost you at least $20,000.

Bowrider boat

Bowrider boat

These versatile, 17 to 35 feet (5 – 10.5 m) long vessels are ideal for cruising and fishing, ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. On the other hand, you can find a used model for a modest $7,000 to $25,000 if you prefer that way.

Some new luxury models can go from $100,000 to $250,000. However, the price won’t be higher than $80,000 for a used bowrider boat of that class.

Pontoon boat

Pontoon boat

When picking out this flat inland water boat, you should expect to pay $15,000 to $60,000, depending on its size. A used pontoon boat will be more affordable, particularly when buying off-season. Unless you want a large model, you can find a vessel in decent condition for less than $30,000.

Bass boat

A Bass boat is convenient for catching bass fish and leisure. Most standard models are 16 to 25 feet (5 – 7.6 m) long, and you can purchase one for $20,000 to $90,000. The price will depend on add-ons, primarily swivel chairs.

Plus, fiberglass models are more pricey than those made of aluminum. If you have a limited budget, you should look for a used Bass boat that will cost you $15,000 to $40,000 on average.

Houseboat

This boat is both a house and a vessel. Thanks to the spacious interior space, you can live inside comfortably for years or use it for cruising whenever you want.

You should pay at least $100,000 for a tiny houseboat, but some luxurious models can cost over a million. Sometimes, you can find an older model on the market and buy it for about $20,000.

Airboat

The first airboat was made a century ago, but you can see one only in the deep southern regions, including Louisiana and Florida. People use this vessel to navigate the shallow swampy waters .

You can find models with and without enclosed center consoles on the market in a wide pricing range. The average cost is $30,000 to $100,000 for a brand new, typically custom-made boats boat. On the other hand, a used model will cost you $5,000 to $40,000.

Speed boat

These 20 to 30 feet (6 – 9 m) long vessels designed for racing will cost you at least $30,000, but you can buy a used model for about $20,000.

It is ideal for watersports but is also expensive. Besides the boat’s cost, you should pay for its pricey powerful engines. Therefore, you should count on $75,000, but high-performance models sometimes exceed one million dollars.

Cuddy cabin boat

Cuddy cabin boat

The 18 to 28 feet (5.5 – 8.5 m) long Cuddy cabin boat with interior space to sleep typically costs $30,000 to $200,000. The price of a used vessel depends on the model, used hours, and condition. With a bit of effort, you can find an excellent boat for $10,000 to $100,000.

Trawler

Trawlers are large, approximately 80 to 90 feet (24.5 – 27.5 m) long powerboats with efficient engines convenient for long-distance travel. You can purchase a smaller model for roughly $90,000, but larger ones cost at least $200,000.

Cabin cruiser boat

Cabin cruiser boat

Cabin cruiser boats have an enclosed cabin with a kitchenette, bathroom , and sleeping area. An average of 25 to 45 feet (7.6 – 13.7 m) long model will cost $100,000 to $500,000.

However, you can find a second-hand boat for $20,000 to $300,000, depending on its size and brand . This vessel is an ideal option if you enjoy cruising with your family .

Yacht

This high-end luxury boat has high maintenance costs and requires a crew. In most cases, you should set aside $500,000 to $35,000,000 for an average 30 to 100+ feet (9 – 30.5 m) yacht .

Interestingly, a used model won’t be much cheaper and typically costs $300,000 to $10,000,000. Basically, you should pay such an enormous sum of money for a second-hand vessel. Weird, right?

Nowadays, you have a wide variety of boat types, sizes, and styles, making it challenging to estimate a precise price range. You can buy a used boat for a few hundred dollars, while a super luxury yacht costs millions. Therefore, you should start research by defining the desired boat category. Then, you can start calculating.

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  • 8 Tips to Buy a Boat Like PRO
  • How Much Does It Cost to Wrap a Boat? (Price Chart)
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I want to know about effect of Nautical Miles on Used Boat Price . What will be the price difference between same boat of one’s nautical miles is 5600 and others is 2800?

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Mike Lynch and daughter among missing after yacht sinks: What we know about disaster - and 'alarming' potential cause

The British-flagged luxury vessel named Bayesian was carrying 22 people when it got into difficulty off the coast of Sicily. Seven bodies have now been recovered from the wreckage.

21 foot sailboat cost

News reporter @samuelosborne93

Friday 23 August 2024 12:24, UK

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21 foot sailboat cost

Seven bodies have been found after a superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily.

Twenty-two people were on board the vessel named Bayesian when it got into difficulty in the early hours of Monday, with 15 people rescued.

Here's what we know about the sinking of the luxury vessel so far.

Follow latest updates on the superyacht sinking

Seven people missing after British-flagged yacht capsizes in tornado off coast of Italy

What might have caused the sinking?

The British-flagged luxury vessel, named Bayesian, capsized at around 4.30am local time on Monday morning off Palermo, according to ship-tracking site Marine Traffic.

It sank in as little as 60 seconds with 22 people on board, 12 passengers and a crew of 10, according to the Italian coastguard.

Waterspouts, essentially tornados that form over water, were seen as powerful winds battered the area overnight, local media said.

21 foot sailboat cost

The yacht may have sunk faster with all the doors open due to the hot weather, Sailing Today magazine editor Sam Jefferson has said.

"I imagine all the doors were open because it was hot, so there were enough hatches and doors open that it filled with water very quickly and sank like that," he said.

Official pictures show air conditioning units in several of the rooms, however, which could counter the suggestion open windows caused the vessel to sink faster.

The huge mast is also likely to have played a role, he added.

What are waterspouts?

Waterspouts typically occur during thunderstorms and can develop very rapidly, within minutes.

Their spin generally reaches wind speeds between 75-200mph, but can reach as high as 300mph.

A waterspout is formed during a storm in the Mediterranean Sea, October 1, 2018. REUTERS/Alkis Konstantinidis

They can travel at about 10-20mph typically but can reach greater speeds, making them difficult to avoid - especially in something as slow-moving as a yacht.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, called the reports of a tornado or waterspout "rare" and "quite alarming".

"The vessel was at anchor in a recognised anchorage," Mr Schanck said.

"Depending on wind direction and the state of the sea, this informs the captain whether it is a safe area to anchor or not. There was nothing that was too concerning, for my eye. All in all, the captain used the information they had to make a safe call."

Pic: Reuters

Who owns the yacht?

The yacht belonged to the family of British tech tycoon Mike Lynch. He was confirmed to have died after rescuers found his body on Thursday. Mr Lynch was on holiday with his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, who is still missing, and his wife Angela Bacares, who was rescued.

Mr Lynch, 59, was known as the " British Bill Gates " and has been in the headlines in recent months over a high-profile fraud case.

21 foot sailboat cost

In June, a US jury cleared him of all charges, which were related to the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard (HP). The yacht trip is believed to have been a celebration of the end of Mr Lynch's legal troubles.

HP accused him of deliberately overstating the value of the company before it was acquired by the American tech giant.

Mr Lynch was extradited to the US to face trial in May last year and spent 13 months under house arrest in San Francisco as he awaited trial on 17 charges of conspiracy and wire fraud brought by the US Department of Justice - which were later reduced to 15 charges. He always denied any wrongdoing and was acquitted.

Read more: Lynch's co-defendant dies days before yacht sinking

CCTV shows storm which capsized superyacht, killing one

Who was on board when the boat sank?

The passengers were largely British and American, with crew members were from New Zealand, South Africa, and Canada.

Charlotte Golunski was among the Britons rescued. Her LinkedIn profile says she is a partner at Mr Lynch's firm Invoke Capital and has worked there since 2012.

Charlotte Golunski

Speaking after the ordeal, Ms Golunski told Italian media that she lost her daughter Sofia for "two seconds" amid the "fury" of the sea but was able to retrieve her. She said she held the infant above the waves until the lifeboat was ready.

"Many people screamed. Luckily the lifeboat inflated and 11 of us were able to get on board," she told ANSA.

The girl's father James Emsley also survived, according to Sicily's civil protection agency.

Also on board were Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of investment bank Morgan Stanley, his wife Judy Bloomer, a top US lawyer Chris Morvillo, who worked on Mr Lynch's criminal case, and his wife Neda Morvillo. Divers confirmed on Thursday that their bodies had been recovered.

The yacht's captain James Cutfield survived, along with South African crew members Leah Randall and Katja Chicken.

Jonathan Bloomer is the chairman of Morgan Stanley Pic: Hiscox/ Linkedin

Recaldo Thomas, a Canadian-Antiguan chef who was working on the boat, was the first to be found dead, the Italian Coastguard confirmed to Sky News.

During rescue efforts, divers saw "corpses through the portholes" of the wreck as they recovered the body of a man at a depth of 50m (164ft), according to Salvo Cocina, the head of the Civil Protection of Sicily.

21 foot sailboat cost

What do we know about the vessel?

The Bayesian is owned by a company controlled by Mr Lynch's wife.

It was known for its unusual 72.3m (246ft) single mast - one of the world's tallest made of aluminium - and shared its name with the statistical method Mr Lynch's Autonomy software was based on.

Pic:Danny Wheelz

It was built by Italian company Perini Navi in 2008 and last refitted in 2020.

It was listed for rent for up to €195,000 (£166,000) a week, according to online charter sites.

The luxury vessel , which was managed by yachting company Camper & Nicholsons, could accommodate up to 12 guests in six suites.

It won a string of awards for its design, according to online specialist yacht sites.

Mr Schanck, of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, said the vessel would have been equipped with "high standard" life-saving appliances and radio communications.

He added the yacht would have met all international standards and UK Maritime Coastguard Agency regulations before its voyage.

It was previously named Salute, or "health" in Italian, when it flew under a Dutch flag. Its minimalist interior featured light wood with Japanese accents designed by the French designer Remi Tessier, according to descriptions on charter sites.

Pic:Perini Navi/The Italian Sea Group

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

What were its last movements?

The boat left the Sicilian port of Milazzo on 14 August and was last tracked east of Palermo on Sunday evening, with a navigation status of "at anchor", according to vessel tracking site VesselFinder.

The Bayesian previously travelled to other parts of Sicily before its last sighting off the coast of the port of Porticello.

The path of the last 24 hours of the Bayesian. Pic: MarineTraffic

On Sunday, the boat was seen off the coast of Cefalu before it travelled towards Porticello, MarineTraffic data shows.

In the days before, the yacht travelled around four of the Aeolian islands, just north of Sicily.

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21 foot sailboat cost

Prosecutors in the nearby town of Termini Imerese have opened an investigation into the sinking.

Related Topics

  • Superyacht sinking

Family clings to hope of air pocket in sunken superyacht as debris hampers search

PORTICELLO, Sicily — Divers searching for six missing people from a superyacht which sank off the coast of Sicily told NBC News Wednesday that debris inside the vessel, as well as its depth, were making their job difficult.  

As hopes of finding anyone alive dwindled, the divers said that they had managed to force open one of the Bayesian’s access doors but access to the cabins where people could be trapped was being hampered by detritus. 

The divers, who were not authorized to speak publicly, added that the depth of the wreck meant they were left with only 10 minutes to search the 184-foot yacht once they reached it. Then they had to return to the surface, they said. 

On Wednesday, the dock where they set off from was swarming with vehicles, boats and rescuers. Nearby tourists, reporters and photographers have gathered, eager for news. Helicopters occasionally fly over the area.  

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and five of the 22 other people who were aboard the yacht remain unaccounted for and are believed to be trapped in the Bayesian’s hull, nearly 170 feet underwater.

The Bayesian, which had 22 people aboard including 10 crew, was anchored some 700 metres from port before dawn when it was struck by a waterspout, a sort of mini tornado.

Lynch's 18-year-old daughter, Hannah; Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife, Judy; and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife, Neda, are also missing. 

Officials confirmed Monday that at least one person, the ship’s cook, had died. 

Rescuers said Tuesday that there might be people trapped inside the cabins, especially considering the timing of the storm, but that they had so far been unable to check through the ship’s portholes.

“The operations are long and complex,” Italy’s national fire department, whose diving teams have been participating in the search, said on X . 

Italy's coast guard also said Tuesday that divers were also using a remotely-operated underwater vehicle to aid in the search.

Sailboat sinks off Sicily

The Bayesian is owned by a firm linked to Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who was one of the 15 people rescued Monday after it capsized near Sicily’s main city of Palermo in what Italian officials called a “violent storm.” 

Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered Bayesian could carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites. Its nearly 250-foot mast is the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world, according to CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters.  

Lynch, who was regularly described in U.K. media as “Britain’s Bill Gates,” was acquitted by a San Francisco jury of fraud charges stemming from the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard for $11 billion.

The Bayesian, which had 22 people aboard including 10 crew, was anchored some 700 metres from port before dawn when it was struck by a waterspout, a sort of mini tornado.

Prosecutors alleged that Lynch and Autonomy’s vice president for finance, Stephen Chamberlain, had padded the firm’s finances ahead of the sale. Lynch’s lawyers argued that HP was so eager to acquire Autonomy that it failed to adequately check the books .

The Mediterranean sailing vacation was designed to be a celebration for Lynch, who brought Morvillo, one of his U.S. lawyers and Bloomer, who testified in his defense, on the trip.

Bloomer’s twin brother, Jeremy, told the BBC on Tuesday the family was “coping the best we can” and he was hopeful there might still be air pockets inside the hull. 

Chamberlain was not aboard the Bayesian.

In what appears to be a tragic coincidence, a car struck and killed Chamberlain on Saturday as he was jogging in a village about 68 miles north of London, local police said.

Claudio Lavanga and Claudia Rizzo reported from Porticello and Yuliya Talmazan from London. 

Claudio Lavanga is Rome-based foreign correspondent for NBC News.

21 foot sailboat cost

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Best Boating Tips

Unlock the Joy: Discover How Much Does a Boat Cost in 2024? Your Guide to Boat Ownership Costs

how much does a boat cost

Thinking about owning a boat? When it comes to boating, one of the first questions that comes to mind is how much does a boat cost? From my time as a boat owner, I can tell you it varies. Type, size, age, power, features, location – all of these affect the price tag.

But here’s the thing – buying a boat isn’t just about the initial price. Operating and maintaining the boat come into play too. But don’t let this deter you. These are just parts of your boating journey.

In this article, we’ll explore all these costs. You’ll get the inside scoop from my experiences. By the end, you’ll have a full picture of boat costs. 

Ready? Let’s dive in.

Table of Contents

How much does a boat cost.

Got your sights set on a boat? Your first question is probably, How much does it cost? Well, the answer isn’t always straightforward. The cost of a boat is a dance between different factors – type, size, age, features, overall condition, location and even the season of the year.

In this article, we’ll cast a wide net over the key cost factors. From the humble fishing boat to the luxury yacht, boats come in a range of styles and, consequently, price ranges. Choosing between new and used also steers the cost in different directions, not to mention the influence of location and your intended use of the boat.

But remember, the sticker price is only a part of the total cost. The voyage doesn’t end there. As with any vessel, there’s maintenance, insurance, storage and those fuel stops to consider. It’s a package deal, and I’am going to unwrap it all for you.

Before we start, remember: owning a boat is one option. Renting or joining boat-sharing clubs might fit your needs just as well. So, let’s dive in and get a clear view of what owning a boat really costs.

Factors That Affect The Boat Purchase Price: A Beginner’s Guide

Before investing in a boat, it is important to understand the factors that affect the boat purchase price.  The price tag of the boat depends on several factors. Knowing these variables can help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the most value for your investment. Here are the main factors to consider:

One of the most important factors that will determine its price is the type of boat you choose. There are different boat types available on the market, each with its own unique features and specifications. Let’s not go into details here, as in the next section we ‘ll cover the cost of the most common types of boats available on the market. If you already know the type and size of boat you want feel free to jump to the cost of different type of boats section now.

Let’s dive into how the size of your boat can affect both your wallet and your experiences on the water. The rule of thumb? Size matters! Be it a snug kayak or a luxury yacht, each boat size has its own price tag and charm.

Eyeing up a small boat? Costs can vary. We’re talking under $500 for a basic kayak or canoe. Or maybe you’re after a fishing boat. You’ll be fishing out between $10,000 to $20,000 for one of those.

Think bigger. Picture a versatile pontoon boat . Spanning from 16-30 feet, your bank balance will take a hit of anywhere between $15,000 to $50,000. The price depends on size and features.

Dreaming of a speedboat or a sailboat? Get ready to up your budget. Speedboats, which run from 18-35 feet, start at $20,000 and can skyrocket past $100,000. Sailboats offer a broad price range too – think around $10k for a small, used one to a few million for a 60-footer.

Maybe a catamaran is more your style. These spacious, stable boats can cost anywhere from $25k to several million. Sizes range from 10-60 feet.

Here’s the deal: size boosts price. Sure, small boats are budget-friendly and easy to handle, but if you want luxury and advanced features, be ready to pay up for a bigger boat.

Balance size, cost, and your boating needs to find the perfect fit. And don’t forget the add-ons like winterizing and storage fees. They can really add up! The right boat at the right price – that’s the goal.

Let’s chat about how age affects the cost of your dream boat. Age is key, folks. Think about it like this: newer boats are typically pricier, packed with advanced tech that simplifies handling and upkeep. Dreaming of a flashy speedboat? Get ready to splash some cash for the latest models.

But hey, don’t forget that newer boats also keep their value longer. Planning to sell after a few seasons on the water? You’ll snag a better deal if your boat’s a recent model.

Now, older boats can be a mixed bag. They’ve lived a life, which can mean a lower value and higher maintenance costs. It’s like with cars – the older they get, the more tender, loving care they need. It might be repairs or winterizing costs; age bumps up these expenses.

But hey, don’t write off all old boats. Some have been treated like royalty and despite their years, they’re as pricey as a new model, especially those revered “classics.” And on the flip side, you might stumble upon a neglected, newer boat that’s lost its value.

Bottom line? Age and cost aren’t straightforward. It varies from boat to boat. Considering the boat market? Do your homework, chat with experts, and figure out a fair price. Whether you’re dreaming big with a yacht or picturing lazy lake days in a small boat, understanding the role of age in pricing is crucial for your boating investment.

So, you’re thinking about buying a boat. The engine you pick is going to have a big impact on the price. Not just the sticker price, but also how much it costs to run over the long haul.

First thing to think about is whether you want an outboard or inboard motor. Outboard motors are generally cheaper and easier to look after, while inboard motors have more grunt and use fuel more efficiently. But remember, inboard motors need regular check-ups like winterizing, so keep that in mind when working out your budget.

Another thing to consider is horsepower (HP). The more HP your boat has, the quicker it’ll be, but it’ll also burn through more fuel. For instance, a little fishing boat with a 50 HP outboard motor might set you back around $8,000. But if you’re after a bigger speedboat with a 300 HP engine, you’re looking at well over $100,000.

The type of boat you want is going to help determine how much power you need. A pontoon boat doesn’t need as much HP as a speedy sports boat or fancy yacht. For a decent pontoon boat, you’ll probably spend between $15k-$30k.

And if you’re into sailboats instead of motor boats, you don’t need to worry too much about power. These boats mainly use the wind, which can save you a lot in operating costs compared to gas or diesel-powered boats.

We have a section for the different types of boats below. Feel free to jump to that section if you are after more details.

When you’re choosing your boat’s power, think about what you’ll be using the boat for, and how often. The price tag is just part of the story – you’ll also need to budget for things like fuel and maintenance.

Check our Boat Maintenance Made Easy Guide for more details.

When it comes to boats, it’s not just about how big or how powerful they are. The features they come with can also add to the price. These are things that make your boating experience even better.

Boat features come in all shapes and sizes. Some are essential, some are nice to have. And how much they cost depends on things like the type of boat, its size, age, and where it’s located.

Bigger boats usually have more features, which can push up the price. Take a luxury yacht, for example. They usually have all kinds of built-in extras, like a kitchenette for cooking and eating, fully stocked bars, and entertainment areas with video screens or sound systems.

Power and speed also play a part in the price. Bigger engines mean more fuel, which means higher costs over time. So it’s important to think about how much horsepower you need before you make your decision.

If you’re looking at a smaller boat like a pontoon or fishing boat, the features you’ll need are a bit different. Things like rod holders and built-in tackle storage are more important. And although these boats don’t have as many features as bigger boats like yachts, they can still be a lot of fun without costing an arm and a leg.

If you prefer sailing or kayaking in quiet waters, the basic features you need are more about safety – things like life jackets and paddles. Cabin cruisers are great for longer trips with family or friends. They have everything you need, including water heaters for hot showers!

When you’re working out what you can afford, think about what features you really want. From basic safety gear to fancy extras on high-end boats, there are loads of options out there. So make sure you know what you want before you part with your hard-earned cash.

Your boat’s location can really change its price. Live near a big body of water? Chances are boats cost more there compared to inland areas. This is because demand affects pricing, and it varies by region.

So consider where you’ll keep your boat. If you’re coastal, a sailboat might be cheaper than inland, thanks to more sailing opportunities. Coastal spots also have more marinas with various amenities. Marina fees do change by location and usually cost more where there’s lots of boat traffic.

Also, remember that some waters have rules about what boats you can use. Certain lakes don’t allow motorized boats or have horsepower limits.

Should you decide to store your boat at home and use local boat ramps for launching, remember to account for the costs associated with operating and maintaining the trailer. While these expenses are typically minimal, they are still important to factor into your overall budget.

Location also changes your boat’s upkeep cost. Living in hurricane-prone areas like Florida requires considering extra costs for insurance and potential boat relocation and storage as part of your hurricane preparation process . In colder regions, winterizing the boat adds additional expenses.

And if you’re planning to store your boat at a marina when you’re not using it, storage fees will also vary by location. So before buying, think about where you’ll use your boat most and what maintenance and storage will cost there.

If you’re not a frequent boater or don’t want to deal with upkeep, renting might be a better option. You can usually find rentals at local marinas.

Season of the Year

Seasons also play a role in boat prices. Like everything else, boat sales have their peaks and lows, and prices shift based on demand.

Boats usually cost more during the boating season, which changes by region. In colder areas like the Northeast US or Canada, people boat most during the summer. So boats might cost more during the season. But in warmer places like Florida or California where you can boat all year, prices might not change much with the season.

So timing your boat buy can make a difference. Lots of dealers and manufacturers have end-of-season sales to clear inventory before winter. This can be a good time to buy since prices might be lower than in peak season. And if you’re looking at used boats, remember that seasonal changes matter there too.

For instance, if you’re after a sailboat and live where sailing is summer-only, sellers might offer better deals once winter hits and demand drops. Remember that upkeep costs can also change with the seasons. Boats need winterizing to protect their engines and systems from freezing in cold months.

So if you’re buying a yacht or small yacht, remember to budget for winterizing costs. While many things change boat prices throughout the year, you can usually find discounts if you buy out of season. So plan your purchase carefully.

If you’re not in a hurry to buy and want the best deal, waiting for end-of-season sales can be a good move. But remember that whenever you buy or rent, owning any boat comes with costs like insurance, maintenance, and storage fees.

Used vs New?

If you’re on the hunt for a boat, one big question is: new or used? Both have their pros and cons. New boats sure aren’t cheap, but you get warranties and manufacturer guarantees. And if you want a custom yacht packed with the latest tech and features, you might need to go new.

Used boats, on the other hand, can be a real bargain. With a little patience and research, you can find well-maintained used boats at excellent prices. Plus, you’ll find more variety in style and size in the used market.

But before you choose new or used, ensure everything works right—both mechanical parts and safety gear like life jackets. For used boats, look for damage or wear on items like sails or rigging, which can cost a bundle to fix. Also, consider how much the boat’s been used, because even well-cared-for boats might need expensive repairs if they’ve seen lots of action.

As a general rule, if your budget can take it, go new. You’ll know exactly what condition your boat is in. If money’s tighter, be patient when shopping. Don’t grab the first deal you see—waiting for better offers could save you money. 

Whichever boat you choose, whether new or used, remember to factor in ownership costs like maintenance, repairs, storage, insurance, and fuel.

The choice between new and used will come down to your preferences and budget. But whether you want a sailboat, motorboat, or even a super yacht, do your homework before deciding. Consider things like condition, usage history, and price. That way, you’ll find the perfect vessel for your needs and budget, without breaking the bank.

Depreciation and resale value

When buying a boat, keep in mind its depreciation and resale value. Depreciation is how much a boat’s value decreases over time. Resale value is how much you can sell it for. These factors greatly impact the total cost of owning a boat.

Lots of things affect depreciation, like the boat’s type, age, features, and location. High-end luxury boats like super yachts usually depreciate faster than smaller boats like pontoon boats or catamarans. They’re pricier to maintain and need specialized knowledge and equipment for repairs. Plus, older boats might be less appealing because of wear and tear or outdated features.

Resale value is trickier to predict because it depends on factors like market demand for certain boat types. How well a boat has been maintained or winterized will also influence its resale price. Upgrades, like new electronics or an updated engine, can also increase your boat’s value when you’re ready to sell. But not all upgrades add the same value—some might barely affect resale value, while others can give it a significant boost.

Remember, depreciation and resale values differ a lot between boat types. Large yachts might lose much of their original purchase price over time because of high maintenance costs. Small fishing boats might be cheaper upfront but will still depreciate over time, even just from normal wear and tear.

So understanding depreciation and resale values before buying can help you make an informed decision. Consider what boat type fits your needs and budget so you can maximize your investment.

Cost of Different Types of Boats

When it comes to buying a boat, there are many types of boats available and each has its own price range. The cost of a boat can range from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars for luxury yachts.

Some of the most common types of boats available on the market are: 

Pontoon Boat Cost

Pontoon boat

Pontoon boats, known for their spaciousness, stability, and ability to accommodate a large group of people, are the perfect choice for those seeking a leisurely ride on the water. With their generous pontoon width , these boats provide ample room for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying the scenic beauty around you.

When it comes to purchasing a pontoon boat, prices can vary depending on several factors such as size, type of motor and accessories included. A small new pontoon boat can cost around $20,000 while larger pontoons with more powerful engines and luxury amenities can cost upwards of $100,000.

Typically, a standard 22-foot pontoon boat with an average engine will cost around $35,000. One factor that affects the price of a pontoon boat is the type of motor it has.

Pontoon boats typically come with either an outboard or inboard engine. Outboard engines are mounted directly to the transom and tend to be less expensive than inboard engines which are located inside the hull.

Another factor that affects the price is whether you opt for a new or used pontoon boat. Used pontoons can be significantly cheaper than new ones but may require additional maintenance costs in order to keep them running properly.

In addition to the initial cost of purchase, there are additional costs associated with owning a pontoon boat such as storage fees and maintenance costs. Typical maintenance costs include changing oil and filters regularly, winterizing during colder months and cleaning the exterior after each use.

When it comes to safety features for your pontoon boat, investing in items such as life jackets and emergency kits should not be overlooked. Life jackets range from relatively inexpensive options starting at around $20 per person up to top-of-the-line models costing hundreds of dollars per jacket.

Overall, when considering purchasing a pontoon boat it’s important to weigh all factors including size, type of motor and accessories included before making your decision. While they may have upfront costs associated with their ownership such as winterization expenses or storage fees – owning one can provide endless hours of enjoyment on the water.

Fishing Boat Cost

fishing boat

Looking for a fishing boat? One of the most popular types of boats, fishing boats come in a wide variety of sizes and prices. If you’re considering purchasing a fishing boat, here’s what you need to know about the cost.

First off, how much does a fishing boat cost? The answer is that it can vary widely depending on the size, materials, and features included.

A basic aluminum fishing boat can be purchased for under $10,000. However, if you want a larger fiberglass model with more advanced features like fishfinders and livewells, you could easily spend upwards of $50,000 or more.

When shopping for a fishing boat, it’s important to consider what kind of fishing you’ll be doing. Do you plan on taking your boat out on calm rivers and lakes to catch smallmouth bass?

Or are you hoping to venture out into deeper waters to catch larger fish like marlin or tuna? The type of fishing will determine what size and style of boat will work best for you.

If you’re looking for something smaller than a full-size fishing boat but still want to get out on the water, consider looking into kayaks or canoes designed for anglers. These smaller vessels can be purchased new starting around $500 or less.

You could also look at used models if price is an issue. For those who don’t want the hassle and expense of owning their own boat but still want access to one for occasional use – consider joining a boating club.

For an initiation fee ranging from $2k-$5k plus monthly maintenance fees ranging from around $300-$700 per month (depending on location/boat type), members have access to boats in dozens of locations around the country without having to worry about maintenance costs or storage fees. – when it comes down to it, there are plenty of options available when it comes to purchasing a fishing boat at a variety of price points.

Before making a decision, take some time to consider what you’ll be using the boat for, your budget, and any additional expenses that may come with boat ownership (such as storage or maintenance costs). With a little research and some careful consideration, you can find the perfect fishing boat that fits your needs without breaking the bank.

Aluminum Fishing Boat Cost

aluminum fishing boat

Fishing boats can range in size and style, and one of the most popular fishing boats out there is the aluminum fishing boat.

These boats are favored for their durability, lightweight nature, and low maintenance costs to keep it looking great . The cost of an aluminum fishing boat can vary depending on several factors.

Firstly, the size of the boat plays a significant role in determining the price. The bigger the boat, the more expensive it will be.

Aluminum fishing boats typically come in sizes ranging from 12 feet to 24 feet. A smaller aluminum fishing boat may cost around $2,000 to $5,000, while a larger one may run up to $30,000 or more.

Another factor that affects the price of an aluminum fishing boat is its features and accessories. A basic model with no frills or upgrades will be less expensive than a fully loaded model with all kinds of gadgets and add-ons.

Some common accessories for these boats include trolling motors, fish finders , navigation equipment, rod holders and live wells. Furthermore, brand name also plays a role in pricing an aluminum fishing boat.

Some brands offer higher quality materials or innovative designs which can drive up prices. However, more affordable options like Lowe Boats or Tracker Boats still offer reliable models at lower prices when compared to premium brands like Lund or Crestliner.

When considering whether purchasing an aluminum fishing boat is worth it for you it’s important to remember that owning this type of vessel entails other costs as well such as maintenance expenses including winterizing costs for colder climates adding another few hundred dollars to yearly expenses. 

Overall if you’re looking into buying an inexpensive option for weekend angling adventures then aluminum fishing boats are definitely worth considering as they offer excellent value without breaking your bank account compared to other options such as super yachts or luxury sailboats which could cost millions!

Speedboat Cost

speedboat

If you’re looking for a boat that is perfect for water skiing or just cruising at high speeds, a speedboat might be just what you need. But before you go out and purchase one, it’s important to understand how much does a speed boat cost.

The cost of a speedboat can vary widely depending on the size, model, and features. A basic entry-level model can cost as little as $10,000 while larger models with more features can cost upwards of $100,000.

The average cost of a new 20-foot speedboat is around $30,000. One thing to keep in mind when considering the cost of a speedboat is that they are not very fuel-efficient.

Depending on the size and engine power, the fuel consumption can be quite high. It’s important to budget accordingly for fuel costs when owning a speedboat.

If purchasing a new speedboat is too expensive for you, you may want to consider purchasing a used one instead. Used boats are often much cheaper than new ones and may have already been upgraded with additional features.

You may also want to consider renting a speedboat if you’re only going to use it occasionally or don’t want to commit to owning one long term. However, it’s important to note that rental costs can quickly add up if used frequently.

Overall, the cost of owning a speedboat should be considered carefully before making any decisions. While they provide an exciting boating experience and plenty of fun on the water, their ongoing expenses can add up quickly if not planned for properly.

Jon Boat Cost

jon boat

If you’re looking for a small, affordable boat that can get you where you need to go, a versatile Jon boat might be the perfect choice. 

So how much does a Jon boat cost? A new Jon boat can range from around $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the size and features.

However, you can often find used ones for much less. One of the biggest advantages of a Jon boat is its simplicity.

They’re not designed for speed or luxury but rather for practicality and durability. They tend to be made with rugged materials such as aluminum or fiberglass that require little maintenance.

Another advantage is their versatility. You can use them for fishing, hunting, pleasure cruising or even as a workboat.

They’re also great for exploring narrow streams and shallow waterways that larger boats can’t navigate. However, there are drawbacks to consider when it comes to Jon boats as well.

Firstly, they tend to have limited space compared to larger boats like pontoon boats or sailboats. Secondly, they don’t come with many amenities which could make them less comfortable than other options.

In terms of operational costs with a Jon boat- because they’re small and lightweight they typically don’t require very large engines which makes fuel costs more affordable than larger boats such as yachts or super yachts which require thousands of gallons of fuel just for one trip! Additionally, winterizing this type of boat is quite simple since most models are made from materials that don’t easily suffer damages due to freezing temperatures.

Ultimately whether or not a Jon boat is right for you will depend on your needs and budget. If simplicity and affordability are important factors in your decision making process then this type of vessel could be a perfect fit!

Bowriders Boat Cost

Bowrider boat

Bowriders boats, known for their versatility, friendly features, and sporty design, are often considered one of the best family boats due to their ability to accommodate various activities and provide an enjoyable experience for all members of the family.

They are great for water sports like wakeboarding, skiing, and tubing. But how much does a bowrider boat cost?

Well, the answer is not simple because it depends on several factors like size, age, brand, model, and features. The average cost of a new bowrider boat ranges from $20k to over $100k depending on the size and features.

For example, a small 18-foot bowrider with basic features like swim platforms and stereo system with marine speakers costs around $25k to $30k. On the other hand, a larger 28-foot bowrider with advanced features like GPS navigation systems and premium upholstery could cost over $100k.

If you’re looking for a used bowrider boat, the price varies widely depending on the age of the vessel and its condition. A used 20-foot bowrider from an average brand could cost around $10k to $15k if it’s in good condition.

However, if you want a used high-end model with all the bells and whistles in perfect condition that still has some value left in depreciation terms could easily cost you north of $80-90K. It’s important to note that maintenance costs also play a significant role in owning any kind of boat.

Buying a new boat can be expensive upfront but comes with fewer maintenance costs compared to buying an older vessel. You don’t want to end up spending more money than your budget can accommodate just because you didn’t consider maintenance costs when purchasing your dream boat.

Another thing buyers need to consider is storage fees; whether they will be storing them for winter or just finding mooring places during boating season when not in use. Bowrider boats are popular for their versatility as they offer recreational opportunities while providing roomy seating. They are relatively affordable and come in many different sizes and shapes to cater to different users’ needs. 

While buying a new model can be costly, purchasing a used one can save you money, but you need to factor in the maintenance costs and storage fees before making your final decision.

Fish & Ski Boats Cost

Fish & Ski boat

Fish & Ski boats are versatile boats that can be used for a variety of activities. These boats not only offer excellent fishing capabilities but also provide water sports fun.

Fish & Ski boats come in different sizes, ranging from 16 to 24 feet and are available in both new and used models. The cost of a Fish & Ski boat depends on factors such as the size, power, features, and the age of the boat.

For a new Fish & Ski boat, expect to pay anywhere between $25,000 to  $50,000 or more depending on the make and model. Some high-end models can cost as much as $75,000 or more.

However, if you prefer a used Fish & Ski boat with good features and condition but at a lower price point than new ones, you can get one for as low as $8,000 – $15,000. When it comes to power options for Fish & Ski boats, most come with outboard engines that range from 90 horsepower to 250 horsepower.

The engine power also plays an important role in determining the overall cost of the boat. A higher horsepower engine will have better performance capabilities but will increase its price tag.

While considering the cost of your Fish & Ski boat purchase don’t forget about additional costs such as financing fees (if you choose to finance), insurance premiums which depend on factors such as your age and driving experience; maintenance costs including winterizing expenses; storage fees which vary depending on location; fuel costs which vary based on distance traveled; registration fees which range from state-to-state. When planning to buy a Fish & Ski Boat consider your budget along with other important factors like engine size and fuel economy before making your final decision.

Although prices vary depending on numerous variables including model type and year made etc., an average price range would be around $10k-15k for used models and $25 to $50k for a new Fish & Ski Boat. While you may also consider other types of boats like catamarans, yachts or pontoon boats, it’s important to choose the type that is best suited for your needs and budget.

Deck Boats Cost

21 foot sailboat cost

Deck boats are another popular type of boat that combines the attributes of a pontoon and a motorboat. They have an open deck area, which is perfect for sunbathing or socializing with friends and family.

These boats are versatile and come in different sizes, materials, and designs. When it comes to cost, deck boats can be expensive or affordable depending on the features and specs.

A regular 20-foot deck boat can range from $25,000 to $40,000. The price will vary based on factors such as brand name, model year, engine power, number of features included in the package (such as entertainment systems or navigation equipment), and location.

Boats like these come with powerful engines that allow them to travel at high speeds over long distances. One question commonly asked is how much does it cost to rent a deck boat?

Well, this mostly depends on where you live and how long you plan to rent it for. Rates for larger models can start from around $200 per day but can exceed $500-600 per day during peak seasons or around holidays.

Generally speaking – If you’re looking for an affordable option that has most essential features included without breaking the bank then look no further than smaller used models as they present an entry-level option with decent performance capabilities at lower cost points compared to newer models. 

Buying a deck boat requires careful consideration of your budgetary restrictions coupled with your expectations,  if your desires are luxury-oriented then expect costs to escalate quickly.

Leasing and renting deck boats are great options if you’re not a frequent boater and want to save on maintenance costs. Make sure to factor in the hidden expenses of owning a boat such as winterizing, repairs, and storage charges – these can add up quickly over time!

Jet Boats Cost

Jet Boat

If you’re looking for a boat that can go fast, then a jet boat might be just what you need. These boats have a smaller hull design and are powered by water jet propulsion.

They are great for people who want to experience the thrill of speed on the open water. The cost of jet boats can vary depending on many factors such as size, brand, age, and features.

On average, new jet boats can cost between $35,000 to over $100,000. Used models can be found for as low as $10,000 but could require more maintenance.

When considering the size of your jet boat purchase, it is important to keep in mind that larger vessels usually come with larger price tags. Jet boats range in size from 16 feet up to 28 feet or more.

The price will typically increase with the size of the boat. Another factor to consider is brand.

Some of the most popular brands include Yamaha and Scarab. However, there are several other high-quality brands available in today’s market.

If you’re interested in purchasing a new jet boat but don’t want to pay full price upfront, financing options are available through various lenders such as banks or credit unions. Many dealerships also offer financing plans directly to buyers.

When it comes time to actually own your jet boat and use it regularly on the waterways near you, it’s essential not only to purchase insurance coverage but also budget for routine maintenance checks along with regular upkeep costs (such winterization fees). Keep this in mind when planning your overall budget and enjoying your newfound love for life out on the water!

Cabin Cruisers Cost

cabin cruiser

Cabin cruisers are boats that come with an enclosed cabin for overnight stays.

They offer great comfort, privacy, and storage space. These boats have a lot of amenities and features for a luxurious boating experience.

The cost of buying a cabin cruiser varies depending on the size, make, model, age, and condition of the boat. A new cabin cruiser can cost anywhere from about $100,000 to $1 million or more.

The price range for used cabin cruisers is broader than that of new ones since it depends on different factors such as type and age. On average, a used cabin cruiser can cost around $50,000 to $500,000.

Cabin cruisers are typically larger than other boat types like speedboats or pontoon boats; hence they require a larger engine to power them. As such, fuel consumption is typically higher in these boats.

It’s essential to research the approximate fuel consumption rate of the model you’re interested in before making any purchase decision. Storage and maintenance costs also contribute to the total cost of owning a cabin cruiser.

You may need to keep your boat docked at a local marina when not in use or invest in constructing an appropriate storage facility at home if you’ve got enough space. When determining the total cost of owning a cabin cruiser over time as opposed to renting one occasionally from places like Freedom Boat Club or other rental services companies; there’s no clear-cut answer due to several variables involved.

Purchasing a cabin cruiser is not just about how much it costs but also about considering all additional expenses like insurance coverage costs (which depend on various factors such as location and type), maintenance costs (including winterizing), docking/mooring fees (which vary by season). 

However expensive they may be initially though; these boats provide significant ROI when it comes to creating unforgettable memories with family and friends while enjoying life on water without relying on boat rental services.

Center Console Boats Cost

center console boat

Center console boats are a popular choice for those who want to enjoy water sports, fishing or just cruising around the water. These boats come in a variety of sizes and prices depending on the features you want.

The average cost of a new center console boat can range from $40,000 to over $500,000. However, there are some factors that can affect the price of a center console boat.

The size of the boat is one factor that affects the price. Typically, smaller center console boats cost less than larger ones.

A 20-foot center console fishing boat with basic features can cost around $50,000 while a 32-foot luxurious model with advanced features can cost over $200,000. Another factor is power.

Center console boats are powered by outboard motors which come in different options like single-engine or twin-engine motors. The more powerful the engine is, the higher the cost will be.

A single-engine 23-foot center console boat with basic features and 150 HP engine may cost around $60-70K while a twin-engine motorized version with advanced features could go up over $150K. Features are also an important factor when it comes to pricing center console boats.

Boats with simpler and basic features typically come at lower prices but as you add more advanced features such as radar systems or fish finders, prices will increase accordingly. Location and season also affect pricing; some areas have higher taxes or fees for boating services which result in more expensive prices compared to other regions where costs are lower.

When it comes to used center console boats; buyers should be aware that older models may have outdated technology or require extra maintenance costs that eventually drive up expenses. When considering purchasing a Center Console Boat it’s essential to consider your budget along with your desired needs and preferences before making an investment decision.

While purchasing new might be costly for some buyers, used models may come with extra maintenance costs. Renting a boat is also an option which allows you to determine if owning a center console boat is something you would like to pursue before investing in one.

Walkaround Boats Cost

walk around boat

Walkaround boats are designed for those who love fishing and entertaining and want to have a comfortable boat with them. They come with a lot of features that make them very versatile.

Walkaround boats come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, which also determine their price. The price of walkaround boats varies depending on the brand, size, age, and features.

For example, a smaller 20-foot walkaround boat can cost around $25,000 to $35,000. On the other hand, a larger 30-foot walkaround boat can cost around $100,000 or more.

The material used to make the boat is also another factor that affects the price. Fiberglass walkaround boats are more expensive than aluminum walkarounds.

Some popular brands of walkaround boats include Grady-White Boats and Boston Whaler Boats. These brands are known for their quality construction and durability.

Apart from the initial purchase price of a walkaround boat, there are other costs associated with owning one.

For instance boat insurance is mandatory in most states if you’re planning on taking it out on open waters. Insurance costs depend on various factors such as your driving record or claims history,  so ask your insurance agent about what options would work best for you. 

Maintenance fees can vary widely depending on what kind of upkeep your vessel requires – Winterizing procedures could range from simple tasks such as draining water pumps or flushing cooling systems which may run into several hundred dollars or more depending on where you live.

Mooring or storage fees will add up over time if you don’t keep your vessel at home when not being used. 

When deciding on whether to purchase a walkaround boat, it is important to consider how much you are willing to invest in the vessel versus how much you will use it.

If you only plan on using your boat for a few weekends per year, then renting one may be more cost-effective than owning one – with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to thousands depending on the size and type of boat rented (fishing boats, pontoon boats or yachts). Ultimately the decision comes down to your budget and what experience you are seeking with your new purchase.

Sailboats Cost

sail boat

Sailboats are a popular option for those who enjoy the feeling of being on the water with only the power of wind. These boats come in different sizes and designs, ranging from small day sailors to large ocean-going vessels.

The cost of a sailboat depends on various factors such as size, brand, model, age, and features. A small sailboat such as a dinghy or sunfish may cost around $2,000 to $5,000.

These boats are generally used for day sailing and racing and are suitable for beginners who want to learn how to sail. However, if you’re looking for something more substantial like a cruiser or racer-cruiser that can accommodate your family and friends overnight or for longer trips – you might be looking at spending anywhere from $20,000 up to millions of dollars.

The cost may also vary based on how you purchase the boat. Buying a used sailboat can save you money but also requires careful inspection to ensure it’s seaworthy and safe.

In contrast, buying a new boat will give you peace of mind that it’s in good condition but will cost significantly more than buying used. 

In addition to the purchase price of the boat itself, there are other costs associated with sailboat ownership. For instance: maintenance fees (such as engine maintenance), insurance fees (sail boats typically have higher insurance costs than powerboats), storage fees (you need somewhere to store your boat when not in use), mooring fees (if you don’t own space already), annual hull cleaning and antifouling costs (if your boat stays in the water), and maybe even specialized sailing outfit . 

Winterizing is another factor that can impact your overall costs if you live in an area where winter weather is harsh or extreme. You’ll need time and materials such as antifreeze to winterize your vessel properly; this service usually costs around $1000-2000 depending on size. 

As a general rule, expect to spend about 10% of the sailboat’s value in yearly  maintenance.

Overall sailing can be an expensive hobby especially when considering all expenses over time – however – unlike many other activities, which require frequent and expensive upgrades – a well-maintained sailboat can last for decades.

Catamaran Cost

catamaran

When it comes to boating, catamarans are the choice for those looking for a stable and spacious vessel. And while they are not as common as some other types of boats, they are versatile and well worth the investment. So how much does a catamaran cost?

Well, that depends on several factors such as size, age, brand, and features. A new 30-foot catamaran can set you back anywhere from $150,000 to over $500,000.

On the other hand, a used catamaran can be purchased for as little as $50,000. Of course, this varies depending on the model and its condition.

If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience on your catamaran – think Jacuzzi and helipads – then you should expect to pay anywhere from $2 million to more than $10 million for such extravagant yachts. One of the advantages of a catamaran is that they have space for multiple cabins making them perfect for family vacations or group outings.

The larger models typically come with bathrooms in each cabin, air conditioning units throughout the boat and gourmet kitchens. However all these features come at an added cost which will increase your maintenance budget over time.

It’s worth noting that owning a larger vessel like a typical Catamaran would require additional storage costs. You would need to factor in marina slip fees or indoor storage fees at some point if your driveway is not long enough.

So how much does it cost to maintain such vessels? Some owners say owning a boat is like having another child – expensive but rewarding!

Maintenance costs can run between 10% to 15% of the purchase price yearly when factoring in things like replacing lines and ropes every few years or maintaining generators or engines which could cause breakdowns in remote locations if not kept up properly.  While there is no one specific price range that fits all Catamarans, you can expect to pay more for a newer or larger model than for a smaller or older one.

The extra expense may be worth it if you plan on sailing around the world, hosting large parties, or just enjoying the extra comfort and space. Either way, owning a catamaran is an adventure that brings unique experiences and memories that cannot be matched by renting one.

Motor Yachts Cost

motor yacht

If you’re looking for a boat that can offer you a lot of space, speed, and luxury, then a motor yacht is an excellent choice. However, be prepared to spend some serious money because motor yachts can be quite expensive.

There are several factors that determine the cost of a motor yacht. The size is the most significant factor as larger yachts will require more power and materials to build.

The brand also plays an important role in determining the cost of a motor yacht as some brands have established themselves as top-tier manufacturers. If you’re looking at new boats, then you can expect to pay anywhere from $500k to upwards of $10 million for a super yacht.

On the other hand, if you want something cheaper, you can buy used boats for much less. Keep in mind that older boats will need more maintenance than newer ones.

Another factor that affects the cost of your boat is its features and amenities. come with various amenities such as air conditioning systems, hot tubs, built-in TV screens, audio equipment, etc., which all add up to increase its price tag.

When it comes to maintaining your motor yacht’s value over time- winterizing it annually is crucial for keeping it in top condition year after year- depending on where you live, winterizing costs could range between $400-$2000 dollars varying on size and location. Renting or leasing out your motor yacht when not in use is another way to offset some of these costs- renting out your boat through programs like freedom boat club for instance may allow one to recoup their initial investment while enjoying recreational boating without any long-term commitments or extensive maintenance costs associated with owning outright.

Overall owning a motor yacht could be costly but there’s no denying the feeling one gets when cruising with family/friends enjoying an open sea breeze or beautiful island sunset. If you’re an avid boater and have the means to purchase or maintain one, it might just be worth it!

Canoe and Kayak Cost

canoe

If you are looking for a low-cost option to explore the waterways, then a canoe or kayak is worth considering.

They may be less expensive than other types of boats, but they still provide the opportunity for an enjoyable water experience. The cost of a canoe or kayak can vary depending on its size, material and style.

A kayak typically costs between $300 and $1500, while a canoe can be slightly more expensive, costing between $500 and $2000. The price may also depend on whether you opt for new or used equipment.

When purchasing a new kayak or canoe, you should consider additional costs such as paddles, life jackets and safety gear. These expenses can quickly add up so ensure you budget accordingly.

If purchasing their own boat is not feasible for your situation, renting can be an affordable alternative. Renting a canoe or kayak will typically cost around $20-$40 per hour depending on location and time of year.

Kayaks are generally cheaper to maintain compared to larger boats as well. However, maintenance costs should still be considered in your budgeting plan.

Costs such as repairs from scratches or punctures along with replacing worn-out parts like paddles or seats could come up. When considering storage costs keep in mind that kayaks are typically smaller than other boats so storage space shouldn’t be too much of an issue; however larger canoes will need more area to store properly

If looking for an affordable way to enjoy exploring the waters look into kayaks and canoes. While they may have lower upfront prices compared to other types of boats there are still additional expenses to keep in mind like paddles, safety gear etc., along with keeping up with maintenance repairs as needed like any type of boat ownership or rental would require.

RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Cost

RIB inflatable boat

If you’re looking for a boat that’s easy to transport, RIBs may be a good option.

They are lightweight and compact, which makes them convenient to store and tow. One of the biggest advantages of RIBs is their durability.

They’re made from heavy-duty materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and rough waters. You’ll find RIBs in different sizes, ranging from small boats to larger vessels.

The price of an RIB will depend on its size, features, and age. Smaller models start at around $1,000 to $2,000 while larger models can cost upwards of $50,000.

A mid-size RIB with a 50 horsepower engine costs around $20,000 on average. If you’re looking for something that’s budget-friendly or just starting out with boating, you can find used RIB boats for sale starting at around $5,000.

However, be sure to inspect the boat thoroughly before buying it as used boats may have hidden damages. It’s also worth noting that owning an RIB comes with certain expenses like maintenance costs which include repairs and winterization fees.

You also need to pay insurance premiums on your boat to protect it against damages or losses. When searching for an RIB dealer or seller, make sure you do your research by reading reviews online or talking to other boaters about their experiences buying an RIB.

If possible visit stores in person so that you can get a feel for the type of boat you want before purchasing it. 

Overall, if portability and durability are important factors you’re looking for in a boat without breaking the bank then choosing an inflatable is definitely worth considering as compared to some other types of boats. 

Total Cost of Boat Ownership

total cost boat ownership

When it comes to owning a boat, the initial purchase price is merely the tip of the iceberg. The cost of ownership can add up quickly, and it’s essential to understand these expenses before taking the plunge.

Operation and Maintenance Costs

When considering the cost of owning a boat, it’s important to factor in the operating costs, which can add up quickly. These expenses include fuel, maintenance, repairs, and other miscellaneous costs.

Fuel: Like cars, boats need gas, and how much you’ll spend hinges on your boat type and how often you use it. A big yacht gulps way more gas than a cozy fishing boat, we are talking thousands of dollars to fill up a tank. Fuel tanks for small recreational boats can be around 30-50 gallons, which makes it more manageable money wise.

Regular Upkeep: All boats need care to stay in tip-top shape. This can involve engine check-ups, cleaning, painting, and waxing to ward off rust. Costs can stack up, and what you pay varies by boat type. For example, a pontoon boat might need less work than a sailboat. But bigger boats like yachts need special equipment and knowledge for maintenance, meaning higher costs.

Fixes: Boats face a lot of wear and tear, especially from water, whether salt or fresh. So, set some cash aside for fixes when you’re planning to buy a boat. Repair costs depend on the problem – a bit of electrical wiring will cost less than fixing hull damage from a mishap at the marina.

DIY vs. Professional Help: Some boat owners take care of maintenance and minor fixes themselves to save money. But remember, DIY only pays off if you really know what you’re doing. Otherwise, you might end up with a bigger bill.

Extra Costs: Dock fees, insurance (more on that later), permits, and tech upgrades like radar systems all add to your boat’s price tag. For example, annual dock fees can range from $1,200 to $15,000, depending on the marina’s location and amenities.

Winterizing: For boaters in colder places, prepping your boat for winter is vital to dodge costly ice damage. The average cost for winterizing a boat can be around $300, but neglecting it could lead to far more expensive repairs.

Remember, you can offset these costs. Some folks rent out their boats when not in use. Or you can save a few bucks by doing minor upkeep yourself, or mooring in a cheaper spot. 

Keep a close eye on your maintenance and repair costs so they don’t blow your boating budget. Consider partnering with a trusted boat service center or marine engine specialist to keep your boat in prime condition without breaking the bank.

Boat insurance is a must when owning a boat, and its cost can differ a lot based on several factors. Let’s break it down:

The Insurance Basics: Insurance cost depends on factors like the boat type, its age and condition, where you live, and the coverage you choose. Generally, insuring a small boat like a pontoon or bass boat could be around $300-$600 per year. For larger boats like yachts, costs can go up – a small yacht insurance could be about $3,500 per year, while superyachts can be $1 million per year! 

Legal Requirements: Most states need you to have liability insurance for boats with engines over 25 horsepower. And it’s a good idea for all boat owners to get comprehensive policies that cover all possible risks like fire accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Also, if you buy your boat with a loan, the lender might want you to have full coverage until you pay off the loan.

Marinas and Insurance: Most marinas require proof of comprehensive insurance before they allow boats into slips.

Picking an Insurance Policy: Here’s where you need to consider your budget and protection needs. Do you need extra coverage for electronics or personal belongings? Your answers will decide the type of policy and insurer you need.

Deductibles: High deductibles mean low annual premiums, but you’ll have to pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.

Seasonal Factors: Insurance rates can change with the seasons. Winter rates might be lower than summer rates because boats are generally not used much in winter.

So, getting insurance is key for a stress-free boating adventure. Do your homework, talk to an insurance agent, and pick a policy that fits your boat, needs, and budget.

Check the BoatU.S. Insurance page for a quick insurance quote. 

Storage and Mooring

Storing and mooring your boat can be a big chunk of your boat ownership expenses. Here’s a guide to help you understand the costs involved:

Marinas: Marinas are one option for storing your boat. They offer services like dockage, fueling, and repairs. The cost varies based on factors like the location, the boat’s size, and the amenities the marina provides. For example, popular boating spots like Florida or California may have higher marina storage costs. Check our Guide on Things to Consider when Choosing a Marina for more details. 

Dry Storage: You can also store your boat on land in dry storage facilities or sheds. Here, your boat is lifted out of the water and placed on blocks or racks. The costs depend on factors like the location (urban areas can be more expensive), the size of your boat (larger boats need more space), how long you’re storing it (long-term agreements can save money), and the level of service you require.

Winterizing: If you live in a colder region, you’ll need to prepare your boat for the cold weather. This process, called winterizing, can be a significant cost if you don’t have access to affordable services nearby or prefer to do it yourself.

Houseboats: Houseboats often have higher mooring fees because they take up more space.Remember, storage and mooring costs can quickly add up and are often overlooked. Knowing your options and their costs is key to making a well-informed decision about how and where to store your boat. Don’t forget to include these costs when you’re budgeting for your boating adventure!

Hidden Costs of Boat Ownership 

Owning a boat comes with its share of hidden costs beyond the initial purchase and maintenance expenses. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Here are some of the most significant hidden costs: 

Permits and Taxes: Depending on your location, you may need special permits or licenses to operate your boat. Plus, there might be taxes on your boat purchase. In some states like Florida, an annual registration fee is required, based on your boat’s size.

Equipment Upgrades: If the standard equipment on your boat doesn’t cut it, you might want to add new electronics or upgrade your fuel system. But remember, these upgrades can add to your costs.

Winterization: If you’re in an area with cold winters, you’ll need to winterize your boat before storing it. While crucial for maintaining your boat, this process can be expensive, especially if done professionally.

Insurance: While not required by law, boat insurance is highly recommended for unexpected incidents on the water. The premiums can vary based on factors like your boat type and value.

Docking Fees: Unless you have private dock space or plan to trailer your boat each time you use it, you’ll need to pay docking fees. These costs can vary based on location and the demand for dock space at marinas.

These hidden costs are important to factor into your budget when considering boat ownership. They can quickly add up and impact the affordability of owning a boat, both short-term and long-term. 

Don’t forget to research your state’s specific requirements like licensing fees, so there are no surprises. Understanding these hidden costs can help you make an informed decision about boat ownership.

Adding All Expenses Up

Boat ownership is an exhilarating venture, but it entails a comprehensive financial commitment that extends well beyond the upfront purchase. A key consideration is insurance, the cost of which varies vastly depending on the boat type. 

For a small vessel, you might pay between $300 and $500 annually, whereas larger boats such as sailboats or motor yachts could command premiums of several thousand dollars annually. 

Furthermore, maintenance and repair costs, influenced by your boat’s usage frequency and storage location, can accumulate rapidly. For instance, winterizing your boat, a crucial maintenance step in colder climates, can cost between a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Storage and mooring fees are another significant expense, potentially amounting to thousands of dollars each year depending on your location. 

Boat operation costs such as fuel, docking fees, and maintenance supplies also contribute considerably to the total ownership cost. Also, don’t overlook the hidden costs, like permits and taxes, that can vary significantly based on your location and boat type. In some states, an annual registration fee based on the size of the boat is required.

In summary, when considering boat ownership, it’s crucial to factor in not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing expenses, including insurance, maintenance and repairs, storage fees, and operating costs, along with hidden costs. 

Careful research and budgeting can help you avoid unforeseen expenses, ensuring a pleasurable and economically sound boating experience. So while the costs associated with boat ownership can seem intimidating at first glance, with careful planning and consideration, you can navigate these waters successfully.

Financing your Boat

boat financing

Financing a boat is one of the most common ways to purchase a vessel. However, it is important to note that financing a boat can significantly increase its overall cost.

Interest rates on boat loans are typically higher than those for car loans due to the higher risk involved in lending money for a luxury item that depreciates quickly. The interest rate you can expect to pay for a boat loan will depend on factors such as your credit score, the size of the loan, and the age of the boat.

In general, larger loans and older boats will have higher interest rates. It is important to shop around and compare rates from different lenders before making a decision.

Some lenders may require a down payment or collateral before approving a loan for a boat purchase. This can vary depending on the lender’s policies and your individual financial situation.

In addition to interest charges, there may be other fees associated with financing a boat purchase. These could include origination fees, prepayment penalties, and processing fees.

Make sure you understand all of these costs before agreeing to any financing terms. It is also important to consider how much it costs to own and maintain your new vessel when determining how much you can afford in monthly payments.

Overall, financing can be an effective way to spread out the cost of purchasing a boat over time but it is essential that buyers weigh all of their options carefully before committing themselves financially into something they cannot afford or won’t have any use for in the long term. 

Check the BoatU.S. Loans page and apply online.  

Renting vs. Owning a Boat

boat rental

Should you rent a boat or own one? Both options come with their own advantages and disadvantages from a cost perspective. Let’s uncover the details together.

Renting a Boat: Freedom without Responsibility

Renting a boat is generally cheaper than owning one, but it can also come with limitations that may be frustrating for avid boaters. One of the significant benefits of renting a boat is that you don’t have to worry about maintenance or repairs.

Renting a boat is a wonderful option if you only need a vessel occasionally. It’s like ordering takeout – you get to enjoy the meal without dealing with the dishes. The cost to rent can change depending on the type of boat, its location, and the season.

For example, taking a pontoon boat out for half a day in a popular tourist spot might cost around $300. In contrast, the cost of purchasing such small boats ranges from $10,000- $50,000. If you have your sights set on a sailboat, a week’s rental could start at $1,000 or more. But purchasing something at this level will likely be over $50,000.

As mentioned, one key benefit of renting is the lack of operational hassle and maintenance. There’s no need to worry about insurance, dock fees, or scrubbing the hull. You simply enjoy your time on the water and then hand back the keys.

However, rentals do have restrictions. You’ll need to adhere to the rental company’s schedule and rules. For instance, they’ll decide when you can take the boat out and how long you can keep it on the water.

Owning a Boat: A Price for Freedom

On the other hand, there’s something alluring about owning your own boat. You can decide when and where to sail, and there are no usage time limits.

However, owning a boat is like owning a house – it comes with upfront and ongoing costs. The upfront cost can vary greatly, starting from as low as $1,000 for small vessels, to tens of millions for luxury yachts.

When considering the purchase price alone, it would take several years before ownership becomes less expensive than rental. However, if you are someone who frequently uses their boats for extended periods during summer months or weekends throughout the year purchasing may make more financial sense than renting in the long run.

Other costs also come into play, such as mooring fees, fuel prices (which unfortunately rise every year), winterizing costs (if you live in a cold climate), and potential upgrades like additional electronics.

Maintenance is another significant part of boat ownership. From cleaning the hull to troubleshooting engine issues, these tasks require time, effort, and financial investment.

Boat Club Memberships: A Middle Ground

If you’re torn between renting and buying, there’s a third option: boat club memberships, check Freedom Boat Club for example. These  clubs offer different types of boats for members to use for an annual fee. This fee includes insurance, maintenance costs, and dock fees, which removes many ownership hassles.

Ultimately, your choice depends on how often you plan to use a boat and what type of boat you want. If you are someone who likes boating only occasionally, renting a boat makes more financial sense than buying one. But if you’re a frequent boater, owning might be cheaper in the long run, despite the extra responsibilities.

Does the Cost of a Boat Justify the Experience?

boat joy

When it comes to buying a boat, the cost is undoubtedly a significant factor to consider. However, many boat owners (including me!) argue that the experience of owning and operating a vessel justifies the cost.

Owning a boat provides a level of freedom and enjoyment that cannot be matched by any other hobby or activity. Some may argue that owning a boat is an unnecessary extravagance; after all, many boats come with hefty price tags.

A yacht, for example, can cost millions of dollars to purchase and maintain. Even smaller vessels such as speed boats and houseboats can have price tags in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

However, those who have experienced owning and operating a boat would argue that the cost is worth it for the unparalleled joy and freedom it provides. Whether you are cruising on the open sea or casting your line in your favorite fishing spot, spending time on your vessel is an escape from everyday life.

Of course, not everyone can afford to buy their own boat outright. Many choose to join boat clubs, which allow members access to boats without having to spend the money on purchasing one outright.

Renting boats for a day or more is also an option for those who want to experience boating without committing to ownership. It’s also essential to consider additional costs associated with owning a boat beyond the initial purchase price, as covered in detail in the previous sections.

Despite these costs, many boaters believe that there are few things in life more satisfying than having complete control over their vessel while gliding across open waters or experiencing nature’s beauty up close while sailing across peaceful lakes or bays. While owning a boat may seem expensive at first glance, its worth cannot be measured solely by its monetary value alone.

I can tell you, from my own experience, the memories made while cruising through calm waters with family or friends will last forever- something that is priceless. 

Owning a vessel provides a unique way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature while creating cherished memories- something that money can’t buy.

Final Words

We’ve sailed through a lot in this article, so here are the key takeaways to answer our main question: How much does a boat cost?

The cost of a boat doesn’t come with a flat rate. It depends on the type, size, age, features, and location of your vessel, among other things. The type of boating activities you plan on doing will also play a crucial role in deciding what kind of boat suits you.

Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast leaning towards a fishing boat, or a speed lover eyeing a jet ski, do your research. Knowing the cost of different types of boats helps you make an informed decision that matches your budget and needs.

To buy or to rent? Both have their merits. Owning gives you flexibility and convenience, while renting comes with lower upfront costs. The decision depends on how often and how long you plan on using the boat.

Remember, the purchase price isn’t the full story. You’ll have other expenses like insurance, maintenance, storage, mooring fees, and fuel costs. Depending on your location, you may also have permit fees, taxes, and equipment upgrades to consider.

If buying isn’t for you, there are alternatives like the Freedom Boat Club. This could be an affordable choice if you plan on using a boat occasionally.

With proper research and planning, owning a boat can be an enriching experience. If you have the resources and a love for boating, invest in a vessel that fits your budget and preferences. Happy boating!

How much does it cost to rent a boat?

The cost of renting a boat varies depending on the type, size, and location. A small pontoon boat rental can cost around $200 for a half-day rental, while larger boats can cost upwards of $1,000 for a full day.

Additionally, some places charge extra fees for fuel or require a security deposit. It’s always important to read the fine print before renting.

How much does it cost to winterize a boat?

Winterizing a boat is an important maintenance step that prevents damage during the colder months. The cost of winterization can vary depending on whether you do it yourself or hire professionals. If you choose to do it yourself, you’ll need to purchase antifreeze and other supplies, which can add up to around $100-$300. If you hire professionals, expect to pay at least $200-$500. 

How much is a small boat?

The price of a small boat varies depending on the type and features included. For example, an inflatable dinghy might only be around $500-$1,000 while a small fishing boat with an outboard motor could run between $5,000-$10,000.

How much does Freedom Boat Club Cost?

Freedom Boat Club is one of many companies offering boating memberships instead of ownership options. Membership costs vary based on location and amenities offered at each club but can range from $249-499 per month plus additional usage fees and a one-time fee around $4,000.

How much does it cost to purchase and maintain a yacht?

Yachts are luxury vessels with high price tags both upfront and in ongoing maintenance costs. The prices for purchasing yachts vary widely from several hundred thousand dollars for smaller models up into the millions or even billions of dollars for super yachts! A small yacht could run between $100k -$500k, with ongoing maintenance costs averaging around $10k-$20k yearly. Larger models will have higher upfront and ongoing costs.

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Average Boat Transport Cost: Complete 2023 Guide

You may find yourself in need of transporting your boat to move to a new location or to participate in a race or event. However, the cost of boat transport can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the boat, the travel distance, and the transport mode you use. We've put together this comprehensive guide to help you estimate boat transport costs in different scenarios and across various locations, such as the USA, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and Europe.

The average cost of transporting a boat ranges from $150 to $15,000 for sailboats, $150 to $1,000 for pontoons, $150 to $1,000 for powerboats, $1,500 to $100,000 for yachts, $1,000 to $20,000 for catamarans, $250 to $800 for canal or narrow boats, and $50 to $500 for small boats.

Let's take a closer look at the cheapest transport cost options for each boat type, the various methods of transportation, and the potential available discounts during off-peak seasons or for multiple boat shipments. And did you know that aside from road, rail, and sea, you can also transport a boat by air?

  • Road transport is the go-to option for transporting boats over short to medium distances due to its convenience and availability.
  • Consider moving your boat during non-peak seasons if possible; this will probably save you money.
  • Consider trailering your boat, hiring a delivery captain, or shipping your boat with a professional company.
  • When transporting your boat internationally, you'll have to deal with import taxes, customs fees, and specific transportation regulations.
  • Some locations may require specific permits or paperwork, which could increase the overall cost of boat transport.

21 foot sailboat cost

On this page:

Boat transport cost by boat type, boat transport cost by location, boat transport cost by distance, boat transport cost by boat size, boat transport cost by mode of transport, 5 ways for reducing boat transport costs, how to find the best boat transport company.

In this section, we'll discuss the approximate costs for each boat type. These are average estimates. Your specific situation may change the cost, so you may want to get a custom quote from a reputable boat transport service.

Transport Cost for Short Distances (less than 100 miles) Transport Cost for Long Distances (over 1,000 miles) Cheapest Transport Cost
$150 to $500 $15,000 $150
$150 and $350 $500 to $1,000 $150
$150 and $400 $600 to $1,200 $150
$2,000 $100,000 and up $1,500
$1,000 $20,000 or more $1,000
$250 $800 250
$100 to $200 $500 or more $50

In this section, we'll explore the average boat transport cost for the different types of boats in different regions, including the USA, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and Europe. Transporting your boat across these regions may require a significant amount of planning. The route you choose can impact the cost, depending on factors like fuel prices, tolls, and the time it takes to travel.

Estimated Boat Transport Cost
$1 to $3 per mile for distances under 1,000 miles
AUD 2 and AUD 3.50 per kilometer
£1 to £3 per mile
NZD 2.50 to NZD 4 per kilometer
€1.25 and €4.50 per kilometer

21 foot sailboat cost

As you might expect, longer hauls generally cost more than shorter ones. For instance, boat transport costs per mile can range from $1.25 to $15.00. For shorter trips, costs range from around $150 to $350, while longer distances can cost between $600 and $1,000 or more. In general, the shorter the distance, the lower the overall cost.

Distance Traveled
0–500 miles
500–1,000 miles
1,000 miles or more

The route may also impact the price due to factors like road conditions, tolls, and fuel prices. As you plan your boat's journey, consider the most efficient paths to minimize costs. Boat transport providers often charge per mile, with the price per mile decreasing as the total distance increases.

Larger and heavier boats require larger, specialized transporters that can handle the extra cargo. Be sure to accurately measure your boat's dimensions and weight to get an accurate quote from transport companies. Here's an example of how this aspect can impact costs:

Size of Boat
Under 20 feet
20-25 feet
25-35 feet
35-45 feet
Over 45 feet

The cost of transporting a boat under 20 feet can range from $300 to $1,200, while the cost of transporting a boat over 45 feet can cost upwards of $10,000 or more.

In general, the cost of transporting a lightweight boat like a small sailboat or a pontoon boat may range from a few hundred dollars for a short distance to a few thousand dollars for a long distance. The cost of transporting a heavier boat like a large yacht or a catamaran may range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars or more

The method by which you choose to transport your boat—such as by road, rail, sea, or air—can also influence the overall cost. Each mode of transportation presents different pros and cons, depending on your specific requirements.

Mode of Transportation
Road transport
Sea transport
Rail transport
Air transport

Road transport : This is the most common and cost-effective method for transporting boats over short to medium distances. A truck or trailer is used to transport the boat on the road.

  • Pros: It's a flexible and convenient way to transport boats, and it's usually less expensive than other methods.
  • Cons: Road transport can be limited by the size of the boat and the availability of suitable roads and bridges.

Sea transport : This is a common method for transporting boats over long distances or for international shipping. The boat is loaded onto a ship or barge and transported by sea in options like roll-on/roll-off transport.

  • Pros: Sea transport can be used for larger boats and is often faster than other methods.
  • Cons: Sea transport can be expensive, and it can be affected by weather and sea conditions.

Rail transport : This is a less common method for transporting boats, but it can be used in some locations. The boat is loaded onto a rail car and transported by train.

  • Pros: Rail transport can be cost-effective and efficient for long-distance transport.
  • Cons: Rail transport can be limited by the availability of suitable rail lines and loading facilities.

Air transport : This is a rare method for transporting boats, but it can be used for smaller boats or in emergency situations. The boat is loaded onto a cargo plane and transported by air.

  • Pros: Air transport is fast and efficient.
  • Cons: Air transport is very expensive and can be limited by the size of the boat and the availability of suitable airports.

Time of year you choose to transport your boat

Transport companies often offer discounts during off-peak seasons when demand is lower, such as the winter months. It's worth considering adjusting your transportation schedule to take advantage of these discounted rates. In general, the cost of boat transport during peak season (usually from late spring to early fall) may be higher due to increased demand, while the cost of boat transport during off-peak season (usually from late fall to early spring) may be lower due to decreased demand.

Insurance coverage for your boat during transportation

Depending on your existing insurance policy, additional coverage may be required for transport. This coverage could include protection against accidental damage or theft during the transportation process. Make sure to consult with your insurance provider to understand any additional insurance requirements and the associated costs.

Boat insurance typically costs $200 to $500 a year, or around 1-5% of your boat's value if you have a large, powerful, or expensive boat. Your boat insurance policy covers various risks, including accidents, theft, damage caused by storms or other natural disasters, and more. Additionally, securing insurance for your boat during transportation can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected incidents.

Cost of transporting sailboats

Transporting sailboats can vary significantly in cost due to factors like size, weight, distance, and location. In the US, the average cost for sailboat transport was $1,813 between 2020 and 2022. For sailboats, you can expect a cost starting at $150 to $350 for short distances, and $600 to $1,000 for longer distances. It can go up to $15,000 or more for larger sailboats.

Transporting a sailboat can be challenging due to its height and weight. Sailboats may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the mast may need to be removed to fit under bridges and power lines.

Pontoons can be affordable to transport

In general, shorter distances can cost between $150 and $350, whereas longer distances may range from $500 to $1,000. Pontoon boats can be more affordable to transport than other types due to their relatively lighter weight and flatter shape.

Transporting a pontoon boat is generally easier than other types of boats due to its flat shape and relatively light weight. Pontoon boats may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the bimini top and other accessories may need to be removed.

Powerboats can get slightly expensive to transport

As with other boats, expect a price range between $150 and $400 for short distances, while longer hauls can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200. Powerboats can be slightly more expensive to transport due to their size and heavier engines.

Transporting a powerboat can be challenging due to its size and weight. Powerboats may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the windshield and other accessories may need to be removed.

Yachts have higher transport costs

Yacht transportation is a specialized service. Yachts are typically larger, heavier, and more luxurious than other boat types, which makes their transport costs higher. On average, the cost of transporting a yacht within the US may range from $1,500 to over $100,000, depending on the size and specifications.

Transporting a yacht can be complex and expensive due to its size and weight. Yachts may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the mast and other accessories may need to be removed for sea transport.

Catamarans can be expensive to transport

Catamarans usually have wider beams and may require special shipping arrangements. Consequently, prices for catamaran transport can be higher than for other boats. Expect to pay at least $1,000 for short distances and up to $20,000 or more for longer, international shipments. Catamarans may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the mast and other accessories may need to be removed for sea transport.

21 foot sailboat cost

Canal boats or narrow boats are more challenging to transport

Canals or narrow boats are common in Europe, particularly in the UK. Within the UK, boat transport pricing usually starts at £200 for short distances, but it can go up to several thousand pounds for longer hauls or international shipments. Estimated costs in other countries are around $800 to $1,500.

Canal boats and narrow boats are typically more challenging to transport due to their long and narrow shapes. These boats may require special permits and escorts for road transport, and the cabin and other accessories may need to be removed.

Small boats are generally the cheapest to transport

Small boats, such as dinghies, kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, are typically easier to transport and therefore cost less. For short distances, you may only have to pay around $50 to $200. However, for medium and long distances, the cost can go up to $500 or more. To save even more, consider car-topping your small boat or using a dedicated small boat transporter.

When transporting a small boat, it's important to secure it properly to prevent damage or accidents during transport. It's also important to consider the transportation method and any special permits or licenses that may be required. For example, road transport may require a trailer and a valid driver's license, while sea transport may require a special shipping container or cradle.

Boat transport costs in the USA reach to over $1,000

In the USA, boat transport costs typically range from $1 to $3 per mile for distances under 1,000 miles. For shorter trips, you can expect to pay between $150 and $350. For longer distances, transport costs can range from $600 to over $1,000.

In the USA, boat transport is regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and may require special permits and licenses depending on the size and weight of the boat being transported. Some popular boat transport companies in the USA include United Road Services, Yacht Transport, and Sevenstar Yacht Transport.

Boat transport in Australia costs from AUD 2/km

On average, you can expect to pay between AUD 2 and AUD 3.50 per kilometer. Keep in mind that transporting a larger boat, like a yacht, might require additional services and costs. In Australia, boat transport is regulated by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR). Some popular boat transport companies in Australia include SeaRoad Shipping, Toll Transitions, and Boat Transport.

It costs £1 to £3 per mile to transport a boat in the UK

In the UK, boat transport costs can vary, but on average, they range from £1 to £3 per mile . For shorter boat transports within the UK, costs might range from £100 to £500 . In the UK, boat transport is regulated by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and may require special permits and licenses. Some popular boat transport companies in the UK include Boat Transport Ltd, Boat Movers UK, and Marine Transport Solutions.

Costs of boat transport in New Zealand

On average, the costs can range from NZD 2.50 to NZD 4 per kilometer. For shorter distances, you could expect to pay between NZD 250 and NZD 500 . In New Zealand, boat transport is regulated by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). Some popular boat transport companies in New Zealand include Boat Haulage, Boat Transport NZ, and Haulit Transport.

Boat transport costs in Europe

On average, you can expect to pay between €1.25 and €4.50 per kilometer . The cost can be higher for longer distances or more complicated routes. In Europe, boat transport regulations vary by country and may require special permits and licenses depending on the size and weight of the boat being transported. Some popular boat transport companies in Europe include Peters & May, Sevenstar Yacht Transport, and Boat Shipping International.

21 foot sailboat cost

Here are some helpful tips to reduce the cost of transporting your boat without sacrificing quality or safety:

Choose the right transportation method : Depending on your boat type and size, some transport methods may be more affordable than others. For example, smaller boats like sailboats, pontoons, and powerboats could be transported via trailer, while larger boats like yachts, catamarans, and canal boats may require specialized shipping services. Sailboats typically require specialized handling due to their masts and rigging, while catamarans might need wider transport vehicles due to their size.

Plan your trip wisely : Transporting a boat can be more expensive during peak seasons, like the summer months, when demand for transport services is higher. By planning your boat transportation during off-peak seasons, you may be able to secure lower rates and save money. Additionally, try to avoid last-minute arrangements, as these could result in higher costs due to limited availability.

Compare quotes from different transport companies : Request quotes from several transport companies. This will help you find the best deal and ensure that you're getting the most value for your money. The cheapest quote may not always be the best option, so consider the quality of service, company reputation, and any additional fees when comparing quotes.

Read reviews from their previous customers and ask for a breakdown of their fees to avoid hidden charges. It's always better to spend time upfront comparing providers for the best price and service quality. Some companies may offer additional services like shrink wrapping, cradle construction, or storage at an extra cost. Though these services can help protect your boat and provide convenience, they will increase the overall cost of transport.

Prepare your boat for transport : To reduce the risk of damage and additional fees, make sure your boat is ready for transport. Remove any loose items, secure all hatches and cables, protect your boat's exterior from potential damage during transit, and follow the specific guidelines provided by your chosen transport company. Some companies may even offer discounts if your boat requires minimal handling for transport.

Take advantage of transportation discounts : Look for available discounts, like group rates or military discounts, when researching transport companies. If you're transporting your boat internationally, you might also benefit from tax breaks or reduced shipping fees by choosing specific routes or shipping services that cut down on costs.

Finding the right boat transport company can be a daunting task, but fear not! With a little research and planning, you can find a reliable company to transport your boat safely and efficiently. Here are a few pointers to help you in the search process.

Firstly, consider the reputation of the company . Word of mouth and customer reviews can be a great way to gauge the quality of service. Check out online review sites, boating forums, and ask for recommendations from your fellow boat owners. Be sure to read multiple reviews to get a complete picture.

Next, investigate the company's experience and expertise . Find out how long the company has been in the boat transport business and what types of boats they typically handle. Are they familiar with your specific type of boat? It's essential to choose a company that has experience with boats similar to yours to ensure they know how to handle it properly.

Additionally, verify the company's license and insurance . Transport companies should have proper registration and licensing for boat transportation. Make sure they carry adequate insurance coverage to protect your boat in case of any accidents or damages during the transport process. Don't hesitate to ask the company to provide proof of licensing and insurance.

Moreover, request a written quote that clearly outlines the services and fees involved . Compare multiple quotes from different companies to get a sense of the average cost and ensure you're getting a fair deal. Keep in mind that the cheapest option is not always the best choice. Pay close attention to any hidden fees or additional charges that may come up during the transport process.

Finally, communication is key . A reliable boat transport company should be easy to reach and willing to keep you informed during the entire process. If you have trouble getting in touch with the company or feel like your questions and concerns aren't being addressed, it may be a sign to look elsewhere.

7 steps to preparing for boat transport

Properly preparing your boat for transport can help reduce potential damages and associated costs. Always ensure your boat is properly cleaned, secured, and documented before transport. The following guidelines will ensure safe arrival of your boat at your desired destination:

Inspect your boat : Before you transport your boat, perform a thorough inspection to identify any pre-existing damage or potential issues. This will help you avoid disputes with the transport company if any new damage occurs during the transport process.

Remove personal items : Remove all personal belongings and valuable items that are not permanently attached to the boat. This includes electronics, fishing equipment, kitchenware, and anything else that can be damaged or misplaced during transport.

Secure loose items : Make sure to secure any loose items in your boat, such as sails, cushions, or small equipment. Secure these items with straps or bungee cords to prevent them from shifting during transit.

Drain fuel and water tanks : To prevent leaks and spills, empty your fuel tanks to one-eighth or one-quarter level, and drain water tanks. Additionally, disconnect batteries to eliminate potential electrical issues.

Verify dimensions : Accurately measure your boat's dimensions, including length, width, height, and weight. These dimensions are crucial for determining transport costs and ensuring a proper fit on the transport trailer.

Prepare for loading and unloading : Familiarize yourself with the process of loading and unloading your boat at your pickup location and final destination. For example, you'll need to know if your boat requires a crane for lifting or can be loaded on a trailer.

Research transport companies : Shop around for reputable transport companies to ensure your boat is in good hands. Find a company with experience transporting your specific type of boat. You can attempt to find the perfect balance between price and quality. Cheaper services may save you money initially, but you might risk your boat's safety during transit. A higher-priced, trustworthy provider can ensure your boat stays in pristine condition for its journey.

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All about the $40m bayesian yacht that capsized, leaving 6 dead and 1 still missing.

The massive superyacht Bayesian that sank off the coast of Italy on Monday won numerous awards for its sleek interior design — and was sold to its original owner for nearly $40 million.

The luxury sailing ship was carrying 22 people when it capsized and sank during a fierce storm early Monday.

A handout picture, provided by Perini Navi Press Office, shows the ''Bayesian'', the 56-metre sailing unit sunk in a violent storm off Palermo, Italy, 19 August 2024

The bodies of five of six missing passengers, including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch , 69, have been recovered. His daughter, 18-year-old Hannah, is the only one of six known killed in the tragedy yet to be found, a source close to the rescue operation told Reuters.

The ship’s chef, Recaldo Thomas, has also been confirmed dead.

Divers continued searching the wreckage of the 184-foot-long, British-flagged vessel, previously called Salute, on Wednesday after discovering four of the bodies.

When it was built in 2008, the Bayesian had the tallest aluminum mast in the world, standing at 237 feet, earning it the award for best exterior styling at the World Superyacht Awards in 2009, the Telegraph reported.

The sprawling superyacht’s interior, decorated with sleek, minimalist furnishings created by Remi Tessier, has also won numerous awards.

Confirmed fatality from the Bayesian Yacht sinking off the coast of Porticello. Ricardo (Recaldo) Thomas (pictured) the ship's chef has been confirmed dead but 6 others are still listed as missing.Mike Lynch, his daughter Hannah ,Jonathan Bloomer the chair of Morgan Stanley international his wife and New Yorker Chris Morvillo and wife photo

The ship, which accommodated 12 guests, had a master bedroom and three double and two twin bedrooms.

It also featured beige sofas, dark wood furnishings, and a teak deck equipped with a large canvas awning to keep guests cool, according to the outlet.

Some of the ship’s styling, including thin brown pillars and miniature terra cotta sculptures, was inspired by Japanese culture.

What to know after a tornado sank the yacht Bayesian off the coast of Sicily:

  • A superyacht capsized off the coast of Sicily after a tornado hit the area early Monday, killing seven passengers.
  • British tech tycoon Mike Lynch was identified as one of the bodies pulled from the wreckage. His teenage daughter, Hannah, was the final one to be recovered.
  • Lynch — known as “Britain’s Bill Gates” — had invited guests from Clifford Chance, a legal firm that represented him, and Invoke Capital, his own company, on the voyage,  according to the Telegraph . 
  • Security camera footage shot from 650 feet from where the  Bayesian sank Monday  shows it disappearing.
  • A rare and unexpected “black swan” weather event may have led to the  Bayesian’s speedy demise , maritime experts say.

graphic of tragic yacht

The extravagant ship won best interior at the International Superyacht Society Awards in 2008 and was also voted one of the best large sailing yachts at the 2009 World Superyacht Awards, according to the outlet.

The yacht’s original owner, John Groenewoud, a Dutch real estate developer, reportedly bought the ship for £30 million ($39 million) when it was built. In 2014, he sold the ship with an asking price of £27 million ($35 million).

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The Bayesian is currently owned by Revtom, a company that listed Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, as its legal owner.

It was named after the Bayesian statistical model that helps financial investors calculate risk — the subject of Lynch’s PhD that later helped him build his empire.

The vessel, operated by yachting company Camper & Nicholsons, had twin 965hp MTU engines, which gave it a range of 3,600 nautical miles at 13 to 15 knots (14 to 17 mph).

An ambulance carries the body of a person which was found at the scene where the luxury yacht sank.

RSB Rigging carried out rig service works on the ship with Astilleros de Mallorca, a shipyard facility in Palma, in November 2016.

The Bayesian returned in September 2020 for scheduled service works, including having its mast removed and reinstalled.

Steve Branagh, managing director of RSB Rigging, told the Telegraph: “At this time, our deepest sympathies go out to the friends and families of all those affected by this dreadful tragedy.”

A handout picture, provided by Perini Navi Press Office, shows the ''Bayesian'', the 56-metre sailing unit sunk in a violent storm off Palermo, Italy, 19 August 2024

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IMAGES

  1. Sailboat for Sale: 1968 MacGregor Venture

    21 foot sailboat cost

  2. 2004 Precision 21 Sailboat for sale. View price, photos and Buy 2004

    21 foot sailboat cost

  3. Westerly Jouster 21 Foot Swing Keel Sailing Boat for sale from United

    21 foot sailboat cost

  4. Magnificent Classic 21 Feet Sailboat For Sale

    21 foot sailboat cost

  5. Hunter Sailing Boat 21ft

    21 foot sailboat cost

  6. Henderson SR Max Hull 66, 21 ft., 1991, Melbourne, Florida, sailboat

    21 foot sailboat cost

VIDEO

  1. Launching a 40 Foot Sailboat that I Spent Almost 3 Years Rebuilding!

  2. 2023 Sea Pro 219 Test run and Walk Around in Sandusky, Ohio at Clemons Boats

  3. Incredible solo sailing afternoon on a Sea Pearl 21 cat ketch

  4. A-21 Interior.mp4

  5. Day 1, Balboa 21 sail from SF Bay to Delta, 2011

  6. XP 19 sailing yacht 2021

COMMENTS

  1. Average Cost of Buying & Owning a Sailboat (2022)

    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.

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

    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.

  3. How Much Is a Sailboat? (Average Cost of Buying & Owning)

    The price of owning a sailboat may vary depending on several factors such as the size of the sailboat, its model, whether it's new or used, and how often you use the sailboat. For example, a new Islander 36' can cost nearly $150,000 while a used one can cost you around $40,000. Again, the price of a new 26' Catalina can cost you around $80,000 ...

  4. Average Sailboat Prices: 27 Helpful Examples (With Pictures)

    The average price of used sailboats is around $21,000, but new boats cost $60,000 on average and upwards. Some used boats can be purchased for less than $10,000, depending on their age, size, and condition. This is because pre-owned sailboats have about 80 percent of the market share. You will find models from the early 1960s still racing ...

  5. Sailboat Cost Calculator

    Sailboat Cost Calculator. With this calculator, you can quickly calculate your ownership cost based on up-to-date sailboat price data from our yearly research. ... Docking at $25/ft $ 0. Insurance at 1.5% $ 0. Taxes varies. Maintenance at 10% $ 0. Fuel $500. Sailing club $800. Winterize $2,000. Totals. Total one-time cost $ 0. Total monthly ...

  6. Best Small Sailboats, Beginner and Trailerable Sailboats

    With the fiberglass board up, the 17-foot-2-inch boat draws just 5 inches of water; with the board down, the 4-foot-5-inch draft suggests good windward performance. Hull and deck are hand-laminated fiberglass. The roomy cockpit is self-bailing, and the bow harbors a good-sized storage area with a waterproof hatch. ... Norseboat 21.5. Norseboat 21.5

  7. How Much Does An Average Sailboat Cost?

    The average cost of a sailboat for sale will vary all over the board, given the many sizes, complexities, and types of sailboats out there. ... A 22-foot sailboat may be close to $30,000 brand new, yet an older model of the same boat built in the late 1970s might be purchased for $5,500 or less. A shiny new 48-foot catamaran will cost you well ...

  8. Sailo Boat Calculator

    Sailo's Boat Calculator. The Sailo Boat Calculator is a tool that allows you to explore, predict, and plan costs and revenues associated to boat ownership. The most important user inputs can be found on the left side of the Cost of Ownership tab. The calculator has built-in models that compute costs as a function of the information provided.

  9. MACGREGOR 21

    21.00 ft / 6.40 m: LWL: ... Like the LWL, it will vary with the weights of fuel, water, stores and equipment. A boat's actual draft is usually somewhat more than the original designed or advertised draft. For boats with adjustable keels (centerboards, daggerboards, lifting and swing keels), Draft (max) is with the board down. ...

  10. 21 LTS

    Overview. The MAKO® 21 LTS is an aggressive inshore predator that's ready for any challenge. Built to specs supplied by professional redfish anglers, it sports our patented RAPID PLANING SYSTEM™ (RPS) transom, which gets you on plane fast, increases motor efficiency and increases top-end speed by feeding air-free water directly into the prop.

  11. Sail Sloop boats for sale

    Sloop sailing vessels pricing. Sloop sailing vessels for sale on YachtWorld are listed for a swath of prices from $8,830 on the relatively lower-priced, classic models all the way up to $3,935,613 for the most unique, bespoke yachts.

  12. Boat Price Checker Tool

    1. Enter Boat Details: Provide basic information about the boat, such as make, model, year, and location and our tool will analyze the data to give you an accurate market valuation. 2. Instant Valuation: Our advanced algorithm reviews active listings and sold boat data, providing you with a low, average and high price range for your boat. 3. Market Comparison: Compare your boat's value with ...

  13. Ultimate Boat Ownership Guide: The True Cost to Buy & Own a Boat

    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.

  14. How Much Do Sailboats Cost 2023? The Average Prices

    On average, a new cruising sailboat can cost anywhere from $100,000 to over $1 million. Some popular brands, such as Beneteau and Jeanneau, offer models in the $200,000 to $400,000 range. Luxury cruising sailboats from well-known brands like Hanse or any catamarans can easily exceed $500,000. Of course, the cost will also depend on the size and ...

  15. 21 Foot Sailboat Boats for sale

    Posted Over 1 Month. 1994 Ken Hankinson Custom 21' Sailboat Dharma is a 21'6" custom built sailboat. The vessel is of Ken Hankinson design and consists of a 150 square foot mainsail and 100 square foot jib. The drop keel is 600 lb. galvanized steel.The vessel is fir frame construction with 1/4 inch marine ply cull hull and 1/2 inch deck bottom.

  16. Preowned sailboats for sale under 25 feet

    Preowned sailboats for sale under 25 feet preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. ... Sailboat Added 21-Oct-2014 More Details: Irwin 10/4: Length: 25.5' Beam: 10' Draft: 2.6' Year: 1976: Type: cruiser: ... 31' Seafarer 31 ft MK1 Gulf Coasts Carrabelle Florida, Florida Asking $9,800.

  17. Boat Shipping Cost Calculator

    Estimated Boat Shipping Cost. Start Address End Address. Enter a start address, end address, and boat dimensions to calculate a shipping cost estimate. Boat Width.

  18. Transport a Sailboat

    Sailboats can be transported by single-axle trailers, multi-axle trailers, cargo ships, and occasionally trains. Sailboats can also be transported across an ocean on their own with the help of a hired captain and crew. Costs vary widely based on size and type, and they range from $200 to more than $15,000.

  19. The Cost of Boat Ownership: Planning Your Budget for the Year

    For a $50,000 boat, that's roughly $5,000 per year. Engine Service: Oil changes, tune-ups, and other engine services can range from $300 to $1,000 per year per engine. Hull Cleaning and Anti-Fouling: Depending on your boating location, hull cleaning can cost $10 to $20 per foot of boat length, while anti-fouling can add $15 to $30 per foot ...

  20. How Much Does a Boat Cost in 2024? (With Ownership Costs)

    An average 20' boat used can often be found for between $10,000 and $20,000. The same boat bought new would likely be $40,000 to $60,000. One of the biggest factors that will impact the price is the style of the boat, with the length of the boat figuring heavily as well. Buying used boats will always save you money getting the boat into your ...

  21. How Much Does a Boat Cost? (Price Chart)

    Jon boats. Their prices typically range from $10,000 to $50,000. Mid-sized, 20 to 25 feet (6 - 7.6 m) long fishing boat. This range includes fishing boats for offshore use. You can find various models and brands that will cost you $50,000 to $100,000. Large twin-engine, 25 to 30 feet (7.6 - 9 m) long fishing boat.

  22. Bayesian yacht: Fifth body found in search for those missing from ...

    Updated 6:29 PM EDT, Wed August 21, 2024 Link Copied! ... (184-foot) yacht. As rain lashes down on the port, the grainy video shows the boat being battered by the storm, rocking violently from ...

  23. Mike Lynch and daughter among missing after yacht sinks: What we know

    The boat left the Sicilian port of Milazzo on 14 August and was last tracked east of Palermo on Sunday evening, with a navigation status of "at anchor", according to vessel tracking site VesselFinder.

  24. Sicily yacht sinking: Family clings to hope of air pocket as debris

    Divers, who weren't authorized to speak publicly, said the depth of the wreck meant they were left with only 10 minutes to search the 184-foot yacht once they reached it. IE 11 is not supported.

  25. Parker 21 boats for sale

    The starting price is $27,999, the most expensive is $76,900, and the average price of $58,950. Related boats include the following models: 2300 Special Edition, 2100 SE and 2120 Sport Cabin. Boat Trader works with thousands of boat dealers and brokers to bring you one of the largest collections of Parker 21 boats on the market.

  26. How Much Does A Boat Cost? Your 2024 Boat Ownership Guide

    The cost of a Fish & Ski boat depends on factors such as the size, power, features, and the age of the boat. For a new Fish & Ski boat, expect to pay anywhere between $25,000 to $50,000 or more depending on the make and model. Some high-end models can cost as much as $75,000 or more.

  27. Average Boat Transport Cost: Complete 2023 Guide

    Transporting sailboats can vary significantly in cost due to factors like size, weight, distance, and location. In the US, the average cost for sailboat transport was $1,813 between 2020 and 2022. For sailboats, you can expect a cost starting at $150 to $350 for short distances, and $600 to $1,000 for longer distances.

  28. Inside the $40 million Bayesian yacht that capsized, leaving 6 dead and

    The ship's chef, Recaldo Thomas, has also been confirmed dead. Divers continued searching the wreckage of the 184-foot-long, British-flagged vessel, previously called Salute, on Wednesday after ...

  29. Sicily Yacht Sinking: How Mike Lynch's Boat Bayesian Sank Within

    August 21, 2024 at 9:40 AM EDT. Save. It was 3 a.m. on Monday and Captain Karsten Börner and his crew were already awake, preparing for an approaching thunderstorm just off the Sicilian coast. ...