“Even with boat sales and charters booming, yachting remains an enigma for most people.” – Boat International
COSTS
Probably the first parameter that people think of when talking “yachting” is costs.
While the sale price of a yacht might be higher or lower, depending on many factors like year of built, hull structure and if it’s a new or a second-hand vessel, the purchase price is only a portion of the budget you need to acquire a yacht.
On average, you can purchase a seaworthy mid-range 45-foot monohull that can sail around the world for $100,000 to $150,000 and a catamaran of the same size for around $250,000 to
$500,000. However, there are an incredible variety of price points and options in the industry.
What shouldn’t be left behind is the purpose of your yacht, do you want to cruise oceans or will she remain in local waters? The answer determines the equipment needed on board and the level of maintenance required.
“If you want to buy a boat, keep at least 30% of your budget for maintenance, repairs and upgrades.” says Sophie Darsy, co-owner of POLAR SEAL.
INCOME
It is often thought that living on a yacht might be more expensive than living on land.
The truth is, whatever lifestyle you carry on land, you will tend to follow it on water too. This includes: how many days do you work a week? How many times do you go to the restaurant? Will you anchor (which is free) or stay in marinas?
The misconception that yacht owners are millionaires is probably hyped by social medias and celebrities holidays, whereas many owners make sacrifices and stay on a budget with the return of a different lifestyle that certainly includes many pros.
PANDEMIC IMPACT
Compared to 2020, things are moving for the better, and we are hopeful that 2022 will bring more freedom. The main impact on yachting that COVID-19 made, is the closure of
countries’ borders and restrictions on entry. The entire industry had to be on top of the news to follow the constant changes in regulations and requirements.
The positive side is that in 2020 and 2021, boats prices skyrocketed, generating interest and movement in the market.
FAMILY FEASIBILITY
Talking practical, we know many of you are wondering how familyfriendly is living on a yacht.
“There are many families living on boats on the water and they have usually very confident, intelligent and worldly kids who thrive in this lifestyle.” confirms Nim Hirschhorn, co-owner of LUNA, a 45-foot, 2019 Lagoon 450S catamaran.
Samantha Kali, her husband, Aaron, and their three children have been living on a boat since 2019. Courtesy of CruisingGaia/Instagram
Having kids on board is actually much more frequent than what people think and the opportunity of letting the little ones explore the outdoor and learn about it first hand is priceless.
There is a series of tricks that can be done to make life easier for the whole family as space optimisation on board, prevent seasickness and keep everyone occupied! Things to do and see on
board are endless.
So now it might be that while posting your next charter photo, you will also include #adventure, #nature and #independence next to #yachtinglifestyle.
Feeling inspired? Check our yachts selection here