sailboat prices 2023

WHAT’S HAPPENING to sailboat prices? UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2023.

This article was originally written in 2020. much has changed therefore i’ve added an addendum..

We’ve all been watching it . It is clear that the resale values of used “production” fiberglass sailboats over a length of 20 feet or so are plummeting to new lows. Yet the prices of some smaller sailboats, if new or nearly new, are rising rapidly with inflation. Today you can buy five old 35-foot sailboats for the price of one new 15-to-21 footer. The question is… why?

BACKGROUND: The advent of fiberglass as a means of building sailboats began in the 1960s. Up until that time only fabulously wealthy individuals could afford a yacht. It took many months of work by highly skilled shipbuilders to build just the hull of a wooden sailboat, and this represented only a fraction of the fully completed yacht’ s cost . But fiberglass cut the time to build each part that could come out of a mold – the hull or the deck – to maybe one week for let’s say a 35-footer. And the work could be done by minimum-wage workers who could be trained in a few hours to lay up a fiberglass hull or deck and the other parts. The vastly diminished prices attracted hoards of new owners to the pastime of sailing. And whole new things called “marinas” were built to store them… up until the advent of fiberglass yachts were kept on moorings.

The fiberglass layup process emitted a noxious chemical—styrene—into the atmosphere and the lungs of anyone nearby. But money was being made by the factory owners, the workers had jobs, and fun was being had by a whole new class of boat owners. What has changed today?

Remembering that prices are nothing but the product of the law or supply and demand, here is why a few small, new sailboats have high prices that are going higher, and many larger, old sailboats have prices that are low and going lower.

1. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS. When fiberglass yachts first started to be built it was possible to do what is called “open layup.” The byproducts of curing polyester and vinylester resins simply flashed off into the air and disappeared. Today open layup is only permitted in small shops who squeeze under the radar of OSHA, and rightly so. It is still legally possible to lay up small fiberglass parts in a small shop with no nearby dwellings. But the larger factories that spewed out tens of thousands of affordable yachts and tons of styrene into the air are all gone. Factories that created the thousands of cheap yachts that are now for sale on Craigslist for next to nothing are now fond memories. But thank you PEARSON, O’DAY, CAPE DORY, MORGAN, IRWIN, CATALINA, CAL, SHANNON, SQUADRON, HINCKLEY, MORRIS, ALDEN, FRIENDSHIP, CABO RICO, and countless others for bringing the joys of sailing to many.

2. DEPRECIATION. In the early days nobody knew how long a fiberglass sailboat might last. We were all used to cars, which lasted ten to fifteen years and depreciated accordingly. I talked to a finance salesman once at an Annapolis Sailboat Show. He told me that his agency’s assumption (needed in the case of a possible repossession) was that a financed sailboat depreciated from its new price, to scrap value—near zero—in a straight line over ten years. Thus most used sailboats for sale now are selling at or below their scrap value. Since fiberglass is difficult to separate from the other materials like the keel, which if of lead has some residual monetary value, most used sailboats today are worth what the lead is worth, minus the cost of separating if from the hull. There is really no way to recycle the fiberglass. This is why a short drive from your home you will see many old fiberglass “yachts” in peoples’ backyards with “for sale” signs on them, that will in truth never see the water again.

2. MAINTENANCE. All material objects require maintenance. A washing machine or dryer or refrigerator don’t require much, an automobile quite a lot, but a sailboat—being immersed in a corrosive element and exposed to the summer sun—requires more maintenance than virtually any other man-made object. While it is true that one could at enormous expense maintain a sailboat in close to new condition, doing so would cost, for a more than ten year old sailboat, more each year than the product is worth. It’s one thing to spend $20,000 a year to maintain a brand new 35-foot sailboat that cost $250,000 at the latest boat show years ago. It’s quite another to spend $20,000 a year to maintain a ten year old sailboat that you bought for $25,000 or less. And in actual fact newer things require less maintenance than older things. So let me re-phrase that sentence. It’s one thing to spend $10,000 a year on a brand new 35-foot sailboat that cost $250,000 at the latest boat show. It’s quite another to spend $25,000 a year on a ten year old sailboat worth $25,000.

3. COSTS VERSUS INFLATION. Fifty years ago a boatyard worker might have earned $4.00 per hour and a boatyard’s entirely reasonable fee might have been $10 per hour to account for its investment in land, buildings, insurance, and employment costs… Social Security and Medicare matching, paid holidays and vacations, sick days, etc. Today a boatyard worker earns $20 to $40 per hour and sailboat construction or maintenance costs over $100 per hour south of Boston, $75 per hour up here in Maine.

4. MAINTENANCE COST VERSUS SIZE. A brand new, smallish yacht requires very little maintenance. A coat of varnish on the brightwork, a yearly coat of bottom paint. And rent of a small patch of covered winter storage space. For a 15 to 18 footer, maybe $2500 per year. Of course if you are handy and have a garage there is no storage fee, and a can of varnish and bottom paint might cost you $200. The winter work list on a 35-footer can stretch into hundreds of manhours per season. In a city that might mean 100 manhours = $10,000. For an older 35-footer, whose work list expands with age, $10,000 to $25,000 per year. One way or the other you pay – very little for an old 35-footer at first, but a whole lot every year thereafter; A lot of money upfront for a new 15-footer, and virtually no money every year for a decade afterwards.

3. IN THE WATER FEES. A big sailboat will most likely be kept at a marina slip. $5000 per summer, maybe. A small sailboat can be kept on its trailer in the garage and launched when needed, or on a mooring or if you are lucky, or alongside your waterfront float, at little to no cost.

4. TIME REQUIRED TO GO FOR A SAIL. Big or small, when the whim overtakes you to go for an afternoon sail, the time to drive to the marina or yacht club, and perhaps take the launch out to your boat, is the same. But once you get aboard it takes a few seconds to hoist a small boat’s sails, and maybe a quarter to half an hour to get going in your 35-footer. This latter disincentive is one reason you see so many big white boats sitting unused in marinas on sunny summer weekends, and so many small sailboats actually out sailing.

5. SINGLEHANDING. Most larger boats can only be used if you can find crew. Most small boats can be easily singlehanded. The law of supply and demand means prices of boats that can be singlehanded will be higher than those that cannot be. (Small boat prices have morphed higher as large boat prices have plummeted).

6. CONSUMER PRODUCTS VERSUS WORK OF ART. Factory produced “yachts” were nothing more than very large consumer products. They call washers and dryers and refrigerators, “white goods”, and mass-produced sailboats were nothing more than very large and expensive white goods. They’re even – most of them – white in color. The few small sailboats available new on the market today are invariable hand-built works of art, produced by skilled artisans and often trimmed out in rare tropical hardwoods and even in some cases sporting masts and booms of varnished spruce or incredibly strong and light carbon fiber. Consumer goods always depreciate in value; works of art tend to appreciate in value.

7. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS. Most people who enjoy outdoor sports these days are also supporters of an ever cleaner environment. Meaning they are against open layup fiberglass production with its degradation of the upper atmosphere and the lungs of its workers. They know that the byproducts of epoxy resin are less harmful than those of polyester resin. They know that wood is an environmentally superior construction material to glass and resin. They know that small toys (yachts are playthings… toys) are less environmentally destructive in their fabrication than are large toys.

8. MATERIAL COST INFLATION. For the decade 2010 to 2020 at least there had been little inflation, until the advent of Covid. But that has now abruptly changed. Our central bankers have responded to a pandemic by throwing care to the winds and “creating” lots of fake money. The result has been the same as it has always been. Double the supply of money, and after a year the price of everything will have doubled, and nobody will be any better off despite the good intentions. Our central bankers have “printed” approximately 30% more money, in an attempt to soften the blow of “shit happening”. But fact is, you can’t. In fact inflating the currency always creates a worse situation than maintaining a stable currency and letting things adjust automatically. So inflation is back.

9. RECYCLING UNWANTED “YACHTS”. It is difficult and costly to dump or recycle scrap yachts. In fact if we are to get rid of all the unwanted production “yachts” sitting in backyards new ways will have to be found to separate the fiberglass from the metals, and someone—presumably the last owner—will have to be forced to pay for it. Which is why so many old former yachts are “for sale” on Craigslist. Putting a price on the thing, although a cheap price, might fool someone into thinking it is an asset rather than a costly liability.  Someone will ultimately have to pay to have the thing hauled away and recycled.

10. CHARTERING. Time was when the only way to see some of the magical places in the world—the Caribbean, Seychelles, Tahiti, Croatia, Bora Bora—was to buy a yacht, learn celestial navigation, find a way to spend months or years without working (rob a bank or inherit lots of money), and fight down seasickness as you thrash your way day after day down to the tropics. You had no alternative than to pay a lot of money for a proper, big, offshore sailing yacht. Then someone invented chartering. You covered the miles by the thousands in a comfortable seat near the front of a marvelous aluminum contraption sipping cocktails at 580 miles per hour. Then took command of a larger and newer yacht than you could ever afford to own, and after a week of fun in the sun gave it back to the charter company to fix all the things that went wrong. What wrecked the idea of the personally owned large yacht more than any other factor, leaving only the more sensible day-sailing yachts viable for personal ownership, was chartering.

11. IS SAILING DEAD? The good news is, no it is not, far from it. It is true that many exciting and far cheaper sports have been invented that compete with sailing and appeal to the handsome young buck bursting with testosterone and his female counterpart. Windsurfing, ocean kayaking, kitesailing, standup paddleboarding, the list goes on and on. But the challenge of making a vehicle move silently and at no environmental cost through the water using nothing but the power of nature itself, even contrary to the very direction of the wind, will always be fascinating. And the closer you can get to the interface between land and sea—the waterfront—for which wealthy folks now must now pay millions of dollars—the better, and you do so at absolutely no fee.

12. DO ALL SAILING YACHTS DEPRECIATE? No, thanks to the law of supply and demand. Antique yachts appreciate reliably in price, because the supply decreases with time while the demand increases. Old wooden yachts disappear from the market, because many of them are not properly maintained. But the remaining ones gain in value. As an example an authentic Herreshoff 12½ sold new in 1937 for $750. I just sold my 83 years old (it, not me) Herreshoff for $29,500…  today’s average selling price (not asking price) for an authentic 12½ in good condition. No investment I ever made… stocks, bonds, real estate, annuities.. has come close to appreciating so much in value.

THE EXCEPTION TO THIS RULE:

The few fiberglass yachts that were built in low volume, custom production to exceptionally high standards, retain good value if properly maintained. These are the Morris Yachts, Hinckleys, Aldens, Cambrias, and many of the custom designed and built yachts from the famous yards, usually of welded aluminum. These yachts cost, when built, at least triple the cost of a Morgan, Catalina, or Irwin. But the payback is that today they have retained ten times the value of the high volume nautical “white goods”and that value is going up. not down, thanks to inflation..

13. WHAT MAKES SENSE TO OWN TODAY? First of all, forget the money. Own what you think will most enhance your leisure life. Although you might always keep in the background the fact that retention of value is not at all a bad thing. Own a yacht that you will actually use, and enjoy its use. If there is a racing class that is popular where you like to sail, and you enjoy racing, your choice is easy. There is safety in numbers— the simple fact that a race committee raises a flag for that class every Saturday vastly reduces its rate of depreciation. Realize that yachts that were built to high standards at multiples of the “production yacht” price retain a high proportion of their original cost. Examples are the Morris Yachts, Aldens, Hinckleys, Alerion Express 2 8 s, Center Harbor 25s and my own recent designs the Pisces 21, York 18 and Levant 15, whose superiority and value for money are reflected in the long waiting times currently required to achieve delivery or short times on the brokerage market. Likewise the Doughdish and Cape Cod Shipbuilding 12½s and Marshall catboats if ultra-shoal draft is an issue for you, and authentic Herreshoff Manufacturing Company 12½s and Beetlecats if you can afford the formidable yearly costs of maintaining a wooden boat. Seek out the small yachts that are easily gotten going and put away, inexpensive to maintain, and can get you close to that million-dollar shoreline. Or if your dream is to head offshore, jump on any Morris or Hinckley or Alden that pops up on the brokerage market – they tend to be snatched up in a week.

SEPTEMBER 2023 UPDATE.

Interesting to re-read this three years later. Some corrections are needed!

When originally written, inflation in the general economy was hovering about 1.5% year on year. Inflation in the yacht building field was much higher- around 5%.

For various reasons inflation has reared its ugly head with a vengeance. This has caused a revision to my above comments to be necessary.

Much that has been said above still applies, to MASS-PRODUCTION yachts. They are still consumer products at the end of their usable life and therefore of little to no value.

However, it does not apply to the few very high quality designs built to last at least 100 years by Tom Morris and a few other custom-quality, low volume builders.

It has come to my attention over the last three years that virtually none of my designs remain on the brokerage market. In 2020 one would see at least 10 Chuck Paine designs on YachtWorld and a few more on other brokerage sites. When one pops up today it is immediately bought, at higher prices than were the case in 2020. It is clear to me that people who wish to retain their savings are buying good quality used yachts as hedges against inflation, not just for recreational use.

There is also “scarcity value” to anything that is both intrinsically desirable, and rare. The alternative to buying, for instance, a 30- year old used Frances 26 on the brokerage market for between $70,000 and $30,000 depending upon its condition, is to build a new one at today’s prices, which would cost $550.000. At that latter figure climbs, the prices for good condition used models does also.

I believe that the recovery in used yacht prices is forced by the current high level of inflation. Our government has chosen as governments sadly often do, to devalue the currency (inflate). So everything- including used yachts- is being bought with a new, lower value currency.  And remember- yacht construction inflation is between two and three times general inflation and has been for many years.  So while the general inflation level has jumped from 1.5% to 6 to 8%,  yacht inflation has jumped from 5% to something more like 20% yearly.  For at least as long as central bankers lack the spine to bring inflation under control, expect used Chuck Paine designed yacht prices (and equivalent quality yachts from other designers) to climb at significant rates.

I hope this is helpful.

Chuck Paine

Boat Prices in 2023: Analysis of the Market for Buyers and Sellers

Are you considering buying or selling a boat in 2023? This article will explore the market for boats in 2023, the boat prices, trends, factors affecting prices, and the best time to buy or sell a boat. Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, take the time to understand what’s happening in the marketplace.

Table of Contents

Background to today’s boat market – the covid years.

The boating industry has witnessed significant changes in supply and demand over the past couple of years due to the CoViD pandemic. With the onset of the pandemic, many boat manufacturers faced disruptions in their production and supply chains, resulting in limited availability of new boats. This scarcity drove up prices and created a seller’s market with high demand and a low inventory of new vessels. 

A Need to Spend Leisure Time in a Safer Environment

With travel restrictions and social distancing measures in place, many individuals turned to boating as a way to safely enjoy outdoor activities and leisure time, seeking local and regional boating experiences. 

Smaller, more versatile boats suitable for day trips or weekend getaways became increasingly popular.

The Desire for More Space and a Change of Scene

The pandemic also brought about a desire for more space and a change of scenery, having been cooped up at home for weeks on end. Many people reevaluated their living situations and realised the benefits of living on the water, away from crowded urban areas. Liveaboard vessels provide an opportunity to have a cozy and self-contained living space while enjoying the tranquility of the water. 

A Shift in Remote Working

The shift in people’s ability to work from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic affected the demand for liveaboard vessels. With remote work becoming more prevalent, many individuals have sought alternative lifestyles that offer more flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere, anywhere in the world in fact! This shift in work dynamics sparked increased interest in boats designed for full-time living.

The ability to work remotely opened up opportunities for individuals to live on a boat while maintaining their professional commitments. This led to a surge in demand for liveaboard vessels.

The YouTube Effect

During the pandemic, there was a significant increase in the popularity of YouTube sailing channels. Many turned to online platforms for entertainment and inspiration as people spent more time at home. YouTube sailing channels such as Brian Paulson with SVDelos, featuring individuals or families documenting their liveaboard experiences, gained a substantial following. Viewers were captivated by the unique lifestyle, breathtaking scenery, and sense of freedom.

The impact of binge-watching YouTube sailing channels on the demand for liveaboard boats can be observed in several ways. First, the exposure to these channels sparked growing interest and curiosity among viewers about the possibility of living on a boat and embarking on their own sailing adventures. The videos provided inspiration and education to those who might not otherwise have considered it, providing insights into the liveaboard lifestyle, sailing techniques, and the joys of exploring different coastal areas.

The popularity of YouTube sailing channels also created a sense of community and connection among viewers. Comment sections and social media platforms associated with these channels became spaces for like-minded individuals to share their aspirations, seek advice, and engage in discussions. This sense of community further fueled the interest in liveaboard boats, as people found support and encouragement from others who shared their passion for the liveaboard lifestyle.

As a result, the increased viewership of YouTube sailing channels contributed to a surge in demand for liveaboard boats. Many individuals who were drawn to the idea of living on the water and experiencing the freedom of sailing were motivated to pursue their dreams. They saw the potential for a fulfilling and adventurous lifestyle showcased in these videos, leading to an increased desire to own their liveaboard vessel and embark on their own sailing journeys.

These effects can be seen clearly in the trend for searching “Boat for Sale” on Google over the past few years:

The CoViD Effect on Used Boat Prices

This surge in demand for both small day boats and larger liveaboard vessels, and the constricted production of new boats, led to a shortage in the pre-owned market, and as a result, prices for used boats escalated. If you were a boat seller, this presented a favourable environment to achieve a higher price for your vessel. However, as a buyer, you needed to be patient and willing to invest time to find the right used boat at a reasonable price, as the selection was limited and competition among buyers fierce.

Boats Group carried our a comprehensive market analysis for 2022:

Factors Affecting the Market in 2023

Ongoing impact of the pandemic on new and used boat supply and demand.

We continue to see the impact of CoViD going into 2023; the pandemic motivated many people to change their lifestyle, and while some were able to make a quick and radical change due to their financial or personal circumstances, for others, it became part of a five or ten-year plan.  Some of those that made the change to a liveaboard lifestyle in 2020 are coming to the end of their liveaboard goals, returning to a less nomadic lifestyle and putting their kids back into the school system.

And with people back to a more normal working routine and less time to spend outdoors, pandemic purchases spend more time in the boatshed or on the dock.  This results in an increase in new listings to the boat market in 2023 .

The state of catch-up experienced in many boat building yards in 2021-2 as they ramped up again post CoViD to fulfill orders for new boats placed before the lockdowns have eased, and manufacturing schedules are normalising. 

The Supply vs. Demand Gap

The supply versus demand gap in the boat market depends on various factors, including the type of boat, geographical location, and prevailing market conditions. It’s important to note that the boat market’s supply and demand dynamics fluctuate and differ between new and used boats.

Although the demand-supply gap for new and used boats is felt to have been at its greatest in mid-2021, the volume of boat registrations in the USA remains strong compared with pre-pandemic levels.  

With many primary boat shows reprising their activity for the first time in three years in 2023, boat builders have reported high order levels for new boats placed at Boat Shows in Europe and the USA in 2023 so far, and the Global Order Book for superyacht builds is at a higher level than any pre-CoViD year .

Brokers for second-hand vessels, however, are reporting that sales in the first quarter of 2023 are significantly down compared with the same period in 2022 .  Inventory levels are twice as high as the previous year, boats are staying on the market longer, and more price reductions are being made to make the sale.

Innovations in Design and Technology

In recent years, there have been notable design and energy innovation trends in new boats as the industry strives to incorporate more sustainable and efficient technologies. These trends are driven by a combination of environmental concerns, evolving consumer preferences, and advancements in technology. Key areas of focus include:

• Sustainable Materials

Boat manufacturers are increasingly exploring the use of sustainable materials in boat construction. This includes incorporating recycled and eco-friendly materials, such as recycled plastics, reclaimed wood, and bio-based composites. The goal is to reduce the environmental impact of boat production and improve the overall sustainability of vessels.

• Electric and Hybrid Propulsion

Energy innovation in the boating industry has seen a rise in electric and hybrid propulsion systems. Electric boats powered by lithium batteries have gained popularity due to their zero-emission operation, quietness, and ease of maintenance. Hybrid systems combine electric motors with traditional combustion engines to recharge the batteries, offering increased efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.

• Efficient Hull Designs

Boat designers continue to focus on creating hull designs that optimise fuel efficiency and performance. This involves features such as hydrodynamic shapes, improved weight distribution, and reduced drag. By minimising resistance in the water, boats can achieve higher speeds and lower fuel consumption.

• Solar Power Integration

Solar panels are being integrated into boat designs to harness renewable energy and reduce reliance on conventional power sources. Solar panels can help power onboard systems, such as lighting, electronics, and battery charging, thereby extending battery life and reducing the need for fuel or shore power.

• Smart and Connected Features

New boats increasingly incorporate features that enhance the boating experience using data and connectivity. This includes advanced navigation systems, digital displays, remote monitoring capabilities, and connectivity options for seamless integration with mobile devices. 

These innovations offer boat owners a range of benefits , including:

• Near silent cruising
• The ability to live on board for more extended periods “off-grid”
• Reduced operating costs
• Zero emissions at low boat speeds
• Responsible boating in sensitive areas

It’s interesting to see that many of the CoViD liveaboards were quick to install large lithium-ion battery banks and solar charging as soon as possible on their new vessels, ripping out propane gas systems and installing induction cooktops and household refrigerators.  Boats coming to the second-hand market without these home-from-home features are disadvantaged.

Consumer Confidence, Inflation, and Affordable Boating

Despite the slowdown in boat sales, industry analysts continue to mark the rise in participants in the boating industry , indicating that interest in water-based leisure time activities remains high.  However, with higher interest rates from the post-pandemic economic downturn, consumers find it tougher to agree on financing deals on new and used boats . They are turning instead to boat rental and other options.

Social media platforms have facilitated the rise of peer-to-peer sharing networks specific to boating. Platforms such as Boatsetter and GetMyBoat allow boat owners to rent their vessels to individuals looking for a boating experience. 

Boat clubs and groups on platforms like Facebook and Instagram have provided a platform for individuals to organize shared outings, where the costs are divided among participants. Websites such as Crewseekers facilitate matching between boat owners and prospective crew.

These sharing economy models enable boating enthusiasts to access boats without the need for ownership, reducing the costs associated with purchasing and maintaining a boat.  As these peer-to-peer platforms gain popularity , the demand for buying a new or second-hand vessel decreases.

Oil Price Fluctuations

Oil is a crucial component in the production of boats, particularly in manufacturing fiberglass hulls, resins, and other petroleum-based materials. Fluctuations in oil prices impact the cost of raw materials, transportation, and energy used in the manufacturing process. When oil prices rise, the manufacturing costs for boats increase, which is reflected in higher prices for new boats.

Oil prices directly affect the cost of fuel, which is a significant operational expense for boat owners. Higher fuel costs influence the affordability and operating costs of boats, which may indirectly impact boat demand as owners consider the long-term expenses associated with boat ownership.

Disruptions to the Supply Chain

High fuel prices and global container transportation issues linked to the war in Ukraine continue to influence the market and such disruptions can have a significant impact on boat prices. When disruptions occur, such as delays or shortages in raw materials and components, it leads to increased production costs and limited availability. Manufacturers may pass on these increased costs to consumers, resulting in higher boat prices. Additionally, delays in delivery and market uncertainty can further affect pricing dynamics. Buyers may become more cautious, reducing demand and potentially putting downward pressure on prices.

Rising Personnel Costs

It seems like the number of vacancies in the boating industry increases every week, and a walk along the boulevards of Fort Lauderdale reveals a sea of announcements staked along the sidewalks.  A deficit of trained and experienced workers continues to drive up marine industry personnel costs, which are passed down to both new and used boat prices.

New Boat Prices in 2023

Faced with continuing recruitment issues, high fuel and materials prices, and ongoing disruptions in the supply chain stemming from the pandemic and the subsequent war in Ukraine, boat manufacturers remain at lower capacity than pre-CoViD times.  Demand is high, in comparison, as customers have waited to place orders due to the uncertainties of CoViD, and the waiting lists for new build vessels can be as much as three years.

Buyers should expect the prices for a new boat to remain as they are for now.  Keen parties should put their name down with their local brand dealer to hear of boats that leave the production line where the buyer has dropped out.

Used Boat Prices in 2023

The bubble for used boat prices seen in 2020-21 has well and truly burst!  Brokers and dealers indicate a significant increase in inventory, a longer time to sell, and the need for more and greater discounting to achieve a sale.

With the end of CoViD restrictions and a return to a more normal way of living, there is less incentive to make drastic lifestyle changes.  Pandemic purchases come back on the market as people return to their pre-CoViD habits.  Consumer confidence remains uncertain as oil prices and interest rates have climbed, and the upturn in more affordable boating options will ultimately impact the demand for boat ownership.

Used boat sellers in 2023 should be aware of the increasingly competitive market and the increased interest in eco-friendly design features and energy efficiency; be prepared to lower your price expectations; things are quite different from where they were in 2021 or even 2022! 

Buyers should be patient and take time to explore options as prices for used boats continue to become more negotiable and the choice of vessels much more extensive than in recent years.

Where to Find Boat Prices Online

There are several online platforms where you can check boat prices specific to the model you’re interested in. Here are a few popular websites that provide resources for checking boat prices:

Boat Trader is a comprehensive online marketplace for buying and selling boats. It offers a wide range of listings and allows you to filter by boat type, location, price range, and other criteria to find boats that match your preferences. Boat Trader provides pricing information for both new and used boats, allowing you to compare prices and explore different options.

YachtWorld is a leading platform for new and used boat sales, specializing in larger vessels and luxury yachts. It offers a vast selection of listings from brokers and dealers worldwide. YachtWorld provides detailed information about each boat, including specifications, pricing, and contact details for sellers or brokers.

NADAguides (JD Power) is a trusted online resource for pricing information across various industries, including boats. It offers comprehensive boat pricing data based on year, make, model, condition, and optional features. NADAguides provides both retail and wholesale pricing, allowing you to get a sense of the market value for different boats.

BUCValu is a widely used platform for appraisals and pricing information for boats. It offers a comprehensive database of boat values based on different factors such as year, make, model, and condition. BUCValu provides detailed reports with estimated values, market trends, and historical data to help you assess boat prices accurately.

Remember that while these websites can provide valuable insights into boat prices, prices can vary depending on various factors such as location, condition, equipment, and the market demand explored here. 

Best Time to Buy and Sell a Boat in 2023

Ideal selling period (february to june).

If you want to sell your boat , February and June are generally considered the best time. Many potential buyers are looking for boats to enjoy the upcoming boating season. The warmer weather and longer days create a sense of excitement and anticipation, leading to increased demand. By listing your boat for sale during this period, you can attract more potential buyers and fetch a higher price.

Favourable buying period (September to October)

On the other hand, if you are in the market to buy a boat , September to October is a favorable time. As the boating season comes to an end, sellers may be more motivated to close deals before winter arrives. This can create opportunities for buyers to negotiate better prices or find boats that have been on the market for a while. Additionally, boat dealerships and manufacturers often offer end-of-season discounts and promotions, making it an ideal time to purchase.

In 2023, new boat prices are unlikely to decrease significantly due to the ongoing market dynamics. However, you can expect those for used boats to drop.  Staying informed about the boat market, factors influencing prices, and the ideal buying and selling periods allows you to make confident decisions that align with your budget and preferences. To explore the current boat prices and listings, visit our website and embark on your boating journey today.

Is 2023 a good year to buy a boat?

If you are considering buying a boat, 2023 is a year worth considering. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the boat market has shown resilience and continues to thrive. The demand for boats remains high, and while prices may be lower than in previous years, there are still opportunities to find a boat that suits your needs and budget. It’s essential to carefully research and compare prices and consider factors such as boat condition, model, and features.

Are new boats more expensive than used boats?

In general, new boats tend to be more expensive than used boats. This is because new boats come with the latest technologies, features, and warranties, contributing to higher price tags. Additionally, the demand for new boats often exceeds the supply, which can drive up their prices. On the other hand, used boats offer a more cost-effective option for buyers. They have already experienced some depreciation, making them more affordable. However, when purchasing a used boat, it’s important to consider factors such as the boat’s condition, maintenance history, and any necessary repairs or upgrades.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sam Bartlett is an IIMS Surveyor, a Commercial Skipper of sailing boats, and a boat owner for over 30 years. She lives in St Martin in the Caribbean and provides yacht surveys, skippering and marine consultancy throughout the Caribbean.

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Boat Price Trends

• On August 15, 2023
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The boating industry saw unprecedented growth during the COVID-19 pandemic as people sought outdoor recreational activities. This led to surging demand and rising prices for new and used boats from 2020-2022. As we move into 2023, many boat buyers wonder – will boat prices go down in 2023 or continue to rise?

Factors Impacting Boat Prices

Several key factors will determine when or if the boat market will crash or remain high in 2023 and 2024:

• Supply Chain Issues  – Shortages of materials like fiberglass along with labor shortages have constrained production. As supply chain problems persist, boat prices will stay elevated.
• High Inflation  – With inflation at 40-year highs, the rising costs of materials, labor, transport will keep upward pressure on boat prices.
• Interest Rates  – Higher interest rates make financing more expensive, potentially dampening demand and prices.
• Consumer Demand  – Demand soared during COVID but may moderate with economic uncertainty. Still, new boat buyers entering the market could sustain demand.
• Price of Oil  – As a key component in fiberglass, rising oil prices directly impact boat production costs and prices.

Further reading that’s worth your time: The Best Place To Buy A Used Boat .

Our Forecast for 2023-2024

New boat price trends.

Due to the above factors, most industry experts predict new boat prices will remain high rather than decrease in 2023 and 2024. Some key new boat price trends:

• New boat prices increased 10% on average in 2022 and are forecast to rise another 2-5% in 2023.
• Popular brands and models may have waitlists extending into 2024, sustaining high prices.
• As supply chain issues ease, price growth may moderate but overall remain elevated over pre-pandemic levels.

Used Boat Price Trends

Used boat prices are also expected to remain relatively high in 2023 and potentially 2024:

• Limited inventory has driven intense demand in the used boat market since 2020.
• This shortage of used boat inventory will persist, creating upward price pressure.
• Well-maintained used boats can sell for 50-80% of their original retail price depending on age.
• For context, a 5 year old 25-foot center console that originally sold for $100K can fetch $60-80K on the used market.

The Outlook for 2024 and Beyond

In 2024 and beyond, broader economic conditions will determine if boat prices moderate. But key factors suggest prices will remain strong:

• Pent-up demand from the pandemic has introduced many new buyers to boating who will remain in the market.
• Florida’s continuously growing population increases local demand for boats.
• Boating interest continues to grow nationally, bringing new entrants.

Our Final Thoughts

Barring an economic downturn, which is still in the forecast for many economists, boat prices are likely to plateau at elevated levels rather than return to pre-pandemic pricing. Savvy buyers should watch for potential sales and incentives during boat shows and end-of-season clearances to get the best deals.

But overall, boat prices will remain high compared to historical levels for the remainder of 2023.

You might also be interested in reading:

The Top 3 Boat History Report Websites Reviewed

Yacht vs Catamaran: Which Boat is Right for You?

The Top 10 Best Boat Brands

Best Place to Buy a Boat

Parts of A Boat Explained

Steve Momot

Steve is an accomplished professional photographer and marketer who specializes in the Fishing, Yacht, and Boating industry. With a strong presence as an influencer and marketing expert in the Marine Industry, he has made a significant impact in the field. Additionally, Steve is the original creator and co-founder of Sportfishtrader. Prior to his career as a marine photographer, he gained extensive experience as a licensed boat and car dealer in South Florida.

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

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

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

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

Average sailboat costs at a glance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On this page:

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

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

Buying a sailboat

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

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

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

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

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

Owning a sailboat

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

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

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

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

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

The four sailboat case studies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One-Time Costs:

Recurring costs:, 2. extreme low budget catalina 22'.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recurring Costs

3. low budget 35' ocean cruiser for traveling the world.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost of buying a sailboat

Price of new sailboats.

I've looked at the prices of thousands of yachts (really) on one of the largest yacht marketplaces in the world (- not manually, don't worry: with the help of their search function). This is what I came up with:

Source: Yachtworld.com Q3 2023

The price of new sailboats ranges from roughly $1,765 - $78,033 per foot. I've used these numbers to calculate the following list:

Prices per foot in USD

Here's the detailed price per foot for all lengths from 20 to 100 feet:

Price of used sailboats

We did the same for used sailboats, comparing thousands of listings. Here are the complete data:

Source: Yachtworld Q3 2023

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

Prices on Craigslist

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

To get an average of the price of a used sailboat, I went over to Craigslist. I took the first 20 relevant search results for sailboats under, and over 30 feet.

Of course, the averages here are very speculative, as prices vary from day to day. But it gives a broad range of what to expect.

Over 50 feet, listings become meagre. I believe people tend to not place their 80-ft sailboats on Craigslist, but sell it through a broker instead.

Median Craigslist price of a used sailboat:

• under 30 ft: $11,065
• over 30 ft: $87,020

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

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

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

This is what I found on Craigslist under 30 feet:

Washington dc.

Source: Craigslist Washington DC Q3 2023

Los Angeles

Source: Craigslist Los Angeles Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist Houston Q3 2023

South Florida

Source: Craigslist Miami Q3 2023

Source: Craigslist New York Q3 2023

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

Sailboat price development.

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

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

Sailboat prices research archive

You can check our earlier research data here:

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

Catamarans are 60% more expensive

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

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

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

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

One-time costs:

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

Recurring costs:

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

Cost of owning a boat

Maintenance

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

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

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

Most engines will last you about 20 years.

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

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

Replacing the sails and rigging

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

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

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

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

The cost of new sails is on average:

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

The cost of the new rigging is on average:

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

Bottom Paint

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

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

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

Replacing safety equipment

USCG safety regulations require you to replace safety gear regularly.

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

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

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

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

Winterizing your boat

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

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

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

It consists of two parts:

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

Some other maintenance costs:

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

Joining a Sailing Club

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some ideas to save money:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shawn Buckles

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

Thanks again.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Callahan

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

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

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

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

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

Chris Kenny

Thanks for this infor.

Peace sailing.

Benjamin Sklar

Extremely helpful and interesting article! Thank you!

John Wallace

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

Many thanks!!!!

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Will Boat Prices Ever Come Down?

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A convergence of factors made the last few years a crazy time to buy or sell a boat. Here’s what happened – and what to know about today’s listings.

Photo: Getty

If you tried to buy a boat during the pandemic, you dove into a new type of retail environment – the quarantine market – ­featuring overwhelming demand, multiyear waitlists, soaring prices, and strong competition from other shoppers. Amid lockdowns, social distancing measures, travel restrictions, and canceled vacations, Americans turned to the water in droves. In 2020, boat sales skyrocketed to a 13-year high, reaching levels not seen since before the Great Recession of 2007 to 2009, according to data from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) , which represents U.S.-based boat, marine engine, and accessory manufacturers.

But before that happened, most boat manufacturers were expecting another spending pullback, as occurred after the 2008 economic crash, and decided to cut or curtail manufacturing just as demand was ramping up, according to business publications that report on the recreational boating industry. Safety measures to reduce worker exposure to the infectious Covid virus further slowed production lines, and global supply-chain issues made the situation worse.

“We saw a huge spike in demand,” said Nicole Schantz, vice president of OEM & strategic partnerships for Trader Interactive, which includes Boatline.com , an online marketplace that connects consumers with new and pre-owned boats for sale across the U.S.

For every new boat sold in America, more than three pre-owned vessels are sold in a typical year, according to NMMA data. In 2020, pre-owned boat sales exceeded 1 million units for the first time since 2006, and prices surged as used boat inventory shrank.

The X-factor fueling the unexpected run on recreational boats was the flood of first-time boat buyers, according to NMMA. Boat dealers recount pandemic stories of buyers who turned the budget for a canceled family vacation into the down payment on a new boat. Data shows about 420,000 first-time boat buyers entered the market in 2020, and again in 2021 – levels not seen since 2007. In fact, first-time boat buyers accounted for 34% of new boat sales in 2021.

The frenzy is fading

If the past few years have been an extraordinarily challenging time to boat shop, are buying conditions any better now that the pandemic no longer dominates our lives? Industry insiders say the advantage is shifting toward buyers, but slowly. Overall supply has caught up with demand, and the number of boat sales appear to be falling more in line with prepandemic levels.

For example, in 2022, new powerboat retail unit sales decreased 13% year-over-year according to NMMA. But compared with 2019 (the last “normal” year for the boat market), 2022 sales were 6% lower. Pre-owned boat data shows 2022 sales down 13% year-over-year, but up 3% from 2019.

Courtney Chalmers, vice president of marketing for Boats Group , which owns several online marketplaces for both new and pre-owned vessels (including Boat Trader, YachtWorld, and Boats.com), is seeing similar trends. She attributes the dips in demand to a boat market that’s “normalizing” toward prepandemic levels combined with a rise in interest rates. Final sales figures for 2023 won’t be known for some time, but during the first six months of this year, new and used boat sales were tracking roughly the same as the first half of pre-pandemic 2019, and powerboat sales were down 4% compared to 2022.

Schantz agrees. “Around the middle of 2022, we began slowly seeing the trends normalizing to prepandemic levels. They’re still a bit higher than pre-pandemic, however, which confirms that America’s boating passion is still afloat.”

Now that there's more inventory available, there's also more room for discounting.

Nicole Schantz, Trader Interactive (Boatline.com)

While it’s still a seller’s market, boat buyers have more negotiation power now than they’ve had during the last few years.

More boats, shorter waits

Buyers who purchased new boats in 2021 were facing two- or three-year waiting lists, but manufacturers have caught up to demand and “inventory availability has begun to stabilize,” says Chalmers.

“I think we’re going to continue to see a growth in listings coming online as inventory continues to ramp back up.”

Schantz is already seeing that. “We’ve seen a substantial increase in Boatline’s used boat listings. But we’re also seeing more leads from potential buyers.” In fact, inquiries for used boat listings are about five times higher than those for new boats. She surmises that’s because a lot of people who purchased boats during the Covid-fueled buying frenzy didn’t spend a lot of time researching options  or had little choice. “They may be trading up or looking for the right lifestyle choice now that they know more. Many people didn’t know what they didn’t know or bought whatever they could get.”

JP Skov, executive director at Yacht Brokers Association of America and managing partner at Northstar Yacht Sales, based in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, also sees things on the pre-owned side starting to return to 2019 levels. However, he echoes that used-boat buyers may also end up waiting months to a year for some boat types, specifically noting high-horsepower models.

“As long as you’re below 300-hp for a single-engine boat, you’ll probably get it fairly quickly,” he says. “But if you’re looking for 300s or above, you could wait a couple of months easily for that motor.”

Ellen Bradley, senior vice president of marketing and communications for NMMA, advises new boat buyers, “There might be the odd waitlist, depending on the type of boat you’re looking for. But for the most part, those wait periods have stopped.”

Room to negotiate The pandemic and its ripple effects quickly turned boat buying into a sellers’ market. But while sales have decreased, pricing is a lagging indicator. According to NMMA data, the average retail price of a new outboard boat (including engine) increased 44% from 2019 to 2022, while pre-owned boats were up 28% over the same period.

While inflation has certainly contributed to higher new boat prices, Schantz says there remains continued demand for both new and used boats.

“While not as great as the last few years, boat prices remain higher than in pre-Covid years. But now that there’s more inventory available, there’s also more room for discounting.” She says that while it’s still a seller’s market, buyers have more negotiation power than they did.

Jack Ellis, managing director at Info-Link, a market research firm that tracks boat sales statistics in the U.S., cautions buyers that prices for new and used boats will not be returning to 2019 levels any time soon. However, he agrees there’s now more room for consumers to negotiate . “Things are definitely starting to cool off. No longer is the dealer expecting to get MSRP.”

He speculates that used boat prices should start to come down as supply and demand return to a more conventional balance.

Expert tips for selling a boat

• Put together a great ad. Schantz says the key is including great photos and a video, if possible. Also write a great description that engages the customer. “Don’t just include the spec info from the manufacturer. Help the potential buyer envision being on your boat.”
• Price it right. With changing prices, owners may be wondering what’s their boat worth today. Schantz advises doing your research and setting a realistic price. For boats valued over $75,000, Skov recommends engaging with a professional broker. Not only will they have a sense of the local market, but they’ll also have access to databases that list the actual sale price (not just the listing price).
• Manage your expectations. “Boats are very personal. I always say it’s like someone’s child,” says Skov. It can be hard to let your beloved boat go, especially for a price that seems low. If your boat has been sitting on the market, contact a broker who can act as a valuable sounding board.
• Sell for the right reasons. There are plenty of great reasons to sell a boat — upgrading, downsizing, lifestyle changes — but you may be out of luck if your goal is to make a quick profit. “Any used boat that’s kind of hanging around is either not as nice as it should be or the owner has put it on the market to capitalize on this pandemic market but, in reality, they’ve kind of missed the wave,” says Skov. — F.M.

Expert tips for buying a boat

• Know your intended use. Before beginning your search, Schantz suggests making a list of your boating needs. “Do you want to take out large groups? Go water skiing? Go fast? Toodle around the lake?” If you’re not sure where to start, Bradley recommends visiting discoverboating.com . The NMMA website has several tools including a boat-finder quiz that can help you narrow down boat types and explore brands.
• Set a realistic budget , says Schantz. “Make sure to figure in all costs” including surveys, registration, taxes, necessary repairs, and more. To help, visit BoatUS.com/Loans to access BoatU.S.’s handy boat loan calculator.
• Find a reputable dealer or broker. “There are certification and training programs for dealers and brokers,” says Chalmers. “Look for certified dealers through the Marine Retailers Association (MRAA) or Certified Professional Yacht Brokers (CPYB).”
• Research your boat options thoroughly , advises Schantz. Compare models. Make sure you have all the information possible before starting negotiations. Additionally, Bradley recommends attending boat shows . “They’re one of the best places to see all the new products, do some negotiating, and find some deals for the season.”
• Get a survey . BoatU.S. recommends hiring an accredited marine surveyor to perform a pre-purchase survey and sea trial on the boat you’re considering. This is the best way to discover any problems before it’s too late. Get recommendations for a reputable surveyor credentialed by NAMS or SAMS, and be sure your purchase agreement contains a clause that stipulates that your offer is contingent on a satisfactory survey.
• Know your financing options . There’s more than one way to apply for a boat loan . You can apply through a lending institution (like your bank or credit union), a dealer, or through a service company or finance broker. Coburn notes there are several advantages to financing your boat through a dealer, including access to “special finance programs on certain brands or models because of [the dealer’s] relationships with boat manufacturers.” — F.M.

Rates and requirements

For those looking to finance a boat, don’t expect a break on rates anytime soon.

“The prime rate is expected to remain elevated through 2024,” says Jim Coburn, owner of The Coburn Consulting Company and director and two-time past president at the National Marine Lenders Association (NMLA).

For some, it may be harder to get a loan amid tightening credit requirements, he adds. In a recent survey of members, about 40% of participating portfolio and service company lenders made criteria for loan approvals more stringent.

“Some portfolio lenders commented that they had not changed their lending policies but are now making fewer exceptions in the areas of loan-to-value ratios, collateral valuation, and/or liquidity requirements,” Coburn says.

Schantz adds that as of now, manufacturer prices aren’t coming down enough to make up for the interest rate increases.

All in all, if you missed out on the pandemic-fueled boat buying free-for-all (or chose to stay on the sidelines), there’s good news: Both the new and used markets are becoming more buyer-friendly and should at least offer a less stressful shopping experience. With improved selection, reduced waitlists, and the potential for price negotiation, you can take your time finding the right boat to get you on the water next spring.

What’s hot today

“ Pontoons , ski-wakeboats , center-consoles, bow riders — those tend to be the favorite types, particularly on Boat Trader,” says Chalmers. “Boats under 35 feet have really been driving sales because they’re good boats for first-time buyers. Also, versatile boats tended to be the most popular. A ski-wakeboat can be used for taking the family out, a center-console can be good for fishing or tubing.”

“Industry-wide sales of aluminum-hulled boats, specifically pontoons, have increased 14% year over year in June” says Schantz. She’s seen the same trend mirrored in marketplace sales on boatline.com. “Pontoons offer comfort without compromising the kind of boating you want to do. They accommodate large groups and a variety of water hobbies,” she explains.

“The outboard segment is becoming a more popular vote overall,” says Bradley. “The technology in the engines today is not only more efficient and more sustainable, it’s also a lot easier to use and can provide a better experience.” — F.M.

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Fiona McGlynn

Contributing Editor, BoatUS Magazine

BoatUS Magazine contributing editor Fiona McGlynn and her husband sailed their 35-footer trans-Pacific for two years. Now living north of 59, she’s part of their local search and rescue team and edits WaterborneMag.com, a millennial boating website.

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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.

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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?

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

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

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

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?

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?

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?

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?

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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Average Sailboat Price

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Sailboat costs vary, but we can get a general idea by studying the market and using a few examples.

The average cost of a new cruising sailboat is about $250,000. Prices for new boats typically range from $100,000 to $500,000. The average price of a used cruising sailboat is between $10,000 and $100,000.

In this article, we'll break down the average prices of different sailboats by type, age, condition, and size. We'll also go over the factors that contribute to the price and how much you can expect to pay for different popular features.

We sourced the information used in this article from sailboat pricing guides and the manufacturers of new cruising vessels. We also performed our own analysis of the used sailboat market.

Table of contents

‍ Factors that Contribute to Sailboat Cost

There are a number of factors that contribute to the cost of a sailboat. They differ based primarily on the market they're sold in. For example, a used sailboat's condition will affect its price, but this detail is irrelevant to a new sailboat.

New Sailboat Pricing Factors

New sailboats can be very costly, and prices have gone up over the last few decades. Sailboats are no longer the common family accessory that they were at the height of the 1960s and 1970s fiberglass boat era. This means that fewer companies produce them.

Additionally, the equipment found in sailboats today is far more effective and technologically advanced than it once was. In the 1970s, a sailboat with ducted central heating and air conditioning was unthinkable, but it's standard on a lot of boats today because that's what consumers expect.

The primary factors that contribute to the cost of a new sailboat are size, material, standard equipment, and the level of fit-and-finish.

Size is the single biggest contributing factor. Let's use the popular 31-foot Catalina 315 as a benchmark. This is one of the smallest sailboats made by Catalina today, and it starts at $163,000. This boat is pretty basic, so we can safely say that it's on the low end of the new boat cost scale.

Now let's look at its big brother, the Catalina 355. This 35-foot sailboat has a similar level of fit-and-finish, so we can pretend it's just a stretched version of the Catalina 315. This vessel starts at around $231,000, which is significantly more expensive for an extra five feet in length.

Standard Equipment

An entry-level, base-model cruising sailboat has very little extra equipment, even today. These vessels can be optioned out with everything from powered winches and autopilot to radar and air conditioning. Let's pick a few options and compare pricing.

• Air Conditioning: $1,859
• Radar: $1,878
• Power Winches: $1,485 each (assume 2 are installed, so $2,970)
• Autopilot: $2,000
• Bow Thruster: $2,165
• Total: $10,872

As you can see, just a few popular additional options can add up to a significant cost increase. And we just used the cost of the equipment itself—not installation. This is compounded as size increases, as larger boats require larger machines to achieve the same effect (with the exception of radar in most cases).

Fit and Finish

Fit and finish are major contributors to sailboat pricing, especially with brand new boats. For example, substituting composite countertops for stone or marble can cost thousands. Plus, the use of finer woods, metals, and fixtures can easily double or triple the overall cost of furnishings.

Used Sailboat Pricing Factors

Factors that contribute to used sailboat costs are a bit less dramatic, but they're more difficult to predict. For example, the same boat with the same equipment may sell for 20% more if it's five years newer. The primary contributors to used sailboat costs are age, type, size, and condition.

Overall Condition

Condition is the biggest factor in used sailboat pricing, as it is a direct contributor to the cost of maintenance. How much work needs to be done before the vessel is clean, comfortable, and safe? This is why boats with damage can be a great deal if you're willing to do the work.

Older sailboats simply cost less—to a point. This rule doesn't apply to classic vessels, especially if they're in pristine condition. But virtually every fiberglass sailboat that's older than 20 or 30 years is going to be pretty affordable compared to late-model vessels.

Vessel Type

Cruising sailboats tend to cost more than light sport sailboats, especially as you go further back in age. This is because cruising sailboats are better equipped and more comfortable and thus more desirable to the market as a whole.

Average New Cruising Sailboat Cost

The average cost of a new cruising sailboat is about $250,000. This number is taken from analyzing new sailboat listings of various sizes, with the average being about 35 feet in overall length.

New cruising sailboats range in price from around $150,000 to well north of $500,000 for large and custom models. Aluminum sailboats cost significantly more than fiberglass models, and steel tends to fall somewhere in the middle.

The price of wooden boats is virtually impossible to ballpark until plans are examined, and materials are sourced. Plywood boats cost less than hardwood boats by a significant margin, as there's only a handful of people alive who are competent classical boatbuilders.

Used Cruising Sailboat Cost

Used cruising sailboats are significantly less expensive than new ones. On average, the price of a 20 to 30-year-old cruising sailboat in excellent, voyage-ready condition is between $30,000.

The price of used cruising sailboats ranges from $5,000 for older vessels and $150,000 for late-model cruisers. The cost occasionally soars past $200,000 for special models, especially high-tech luxury yachts.

Can You Finance a Sailboat?

Yes, it's entirely possible to get a loan for a new or used sailboat. It's usually easier to get a loan for a sailboat than a powerboat, and it's also much less expensive to insure. Sailboat loans can be more difficult to get and more costly than car or house loans, but good credit goes a long way.

The average interest rate on a sailboat loan ranges from 4% on the low end to 7% for riskier and smaller loans. New sailboat loans are different, as the amount of money involved usually lowers the interest rate.

Average Price to Build a Sailboat

The great thing about building a sailboat is that the only financial price you pay is the cost of materials. A sailboat can be constructed by a relatively unskilled individual today thanks to modern boatbuilding methods such as stitch-and-glue plywood construction.

The cost of materials varies widely between boats. A small wooden sailboat built from white oak can cost significantly more than a larger sailboat built of steel, and a fiberglass sailboat of any size is usually the cheapest option.

The highest costs, other than wood, are usually due to the price of marine epoxy. A one gallon can of good boat epoxy can easily cost $100 or more, and you'll need many gallons to complete the most modest boatbuilding projects.

Unless you're building a small open-cockpit sailboat, you can expect to pay in the tens of thousands for materials. These costs can eclipse $50,000, but it's still significantly cheaper than hiring a custom boatbuilder. That said, custom boatyards are the way to go for professional fit-and-finish.

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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Will Boat Prices Go Down in 2023? – Boat Prices Trend

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

Will boat prices go down in 2023? Though you may be disappointed with the answer, we’re going to be honest with our boating industry forecast: boat prices will most likely not drop in 2023, if not increase.

The aftermath of the pandemic has caused prices for mostly everything, not just boats, to increase rapidly in the past two years.

Let’s break down the underlying factors as to why boat prices so high and find out a solution for those who wish to own a new boat in 2023. Stay tuned!

Table of Contents

1. New boats

2. used boats, factors affecting boat prices trend, best time to buy and sell a boat, frequently asked questions, boat prices trend in 2023.

By the end of 2022, several concerns have been made regarding the sales of new boats as the lack of customer interest was reported.

When asked, 67% of the 96 dealers predicted that the new-boat retail sales would fall, whereas 21% reckon the opposite; the rest 12% suppose that the sales will level off.

Even if the demand goes down in 2023, shipyards will still fail to bring back the mass production capacities prior to the pandemic, which explains why the new boat price won’t drop in the near future.

Will new boat prices go back to normal soon? We don’t know that, but hopefully, with the global effort of overthrowing the dilemma of higher interest rates and inflation, the boat market slowing down is something worth looking forward to.

If you’re wondering whether used boat prices going up or down, here’s our used boat market forecast for 2023.

As expected, the unprecedented demand for used boats doesn’t seem to cool down in 2023. A used 20-foot fishing boat can cost up to $15,000; even though this is not a small amount, this price of used boats can still help you save up a considerable percentage compared with the initial cost of a new vessel.

The reason for this continuous surge of demand for used boats is the lack of accessibility to new boats due to COVID-19. This forced consumers to buy used boats instead, as they were the only options available.

Not to mention, some people bought boats during the pandemic and now wish to sell them as the trade is gradually opening again; additionally, some cannot afford the maintenance of the boats.

Will used boat prices go down? It appears that the used boat prices trend is forecasted to set a boom again in the upcoming year. As for 2022, the used boat sales outstripped new boats twofold.

Whether you plan to buy or sell a boat in 2023, it’s best to understand the underlying factors affecting the current boat price trends.

• The pandemic: Ever since the pandemic hit in 2019, the boat market has been flourishing as the demand for boats exceeded the supply provided.
• Supply chain: Massive supply chain disruption in 2020-2021 caused essential boating materials like aluminum and steel to become sparse. Even though the price of these components has started to stabilize, boat prices will still likely increase.
• Inflation: Inflation is an ongoing problem that, though stable in the last few months, perpetually impacts boat costs. It is said that manufacturers tend to lever out a 5-10% rate addition when making pricing decisions in 2022.
• Demand – supply gap: Though limited, the significant gap between supply and demand contributes to the price variations of vessels. Boats are not a commodity; they’re handmade regardless of size and purpose.
• Oil price: Because of the Russian war in Ukraine, oil prices witnessed a spike in 2022; currently, they seem to have leveled out but can rise unexpectedly again in these turbulent times.
• Recession: It has been predicted that a recession will occur in the fall of 2023; however, it won’t have much impact on the wholesale price of new boats.
• Personnel: The boating industry isn’t like any other business. It is a labor-dense employment and the hourly rates for personnel are rising by the day due to inflation and a change in work ethic after COVID.

The best time to sell your boat would be between February and June, whereas you can buy a boat for a good deal when fall begins – between September and October.

By now, the boat you’re seeking to buy should be available at most showrooms, so inspect it slowly and completely before writing the check. Also, look for discounts and don’t forget to negotiate. There will be savings, even as little as hundreds, to be had.

Is 2023 a Good Year to Buy a Boat?

It depends on your budget as well as the model you want, but overall, 2022 was not a good year to buy, but rather sell. From the data we collected, there was a great demand for used boats in the past two years.

Manufacturers failed to meet the demand for new boats, which meant you likely had to pay a fairly high price for the boat you wanted. The bad news is, these boating industry trends will likely continue throughout 2023.

How is the 2022 Boat Market?

Overall, the boat sales for 2022 succeeded in thriving stably the entire time, both new and used boats; it is expected to be prosperous still in 2023, with consumer interests remaining unchanged, if not increased.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a New Boat?

If you’re not in a rush, carefully inspect your dream boat. Make sure you get to run a test drive before signing the paper; don’t make an expensive mistake that can be avoided in the first place, and don’t forget about the best time to buy a boat which we’ve mentioned in the previous part.

When you’re buying a boat, especially a used one, you’re putting yourself at a huge financial risk. Test drives are needed to ensure the vessel is in good condition.

By now, you should have the answer to the question we raised in the beginning, will boat prices go down in 2023? Boats aren’t just commodities; they’re complex crafts that require precision in every detail. Though many expect to see boat prices drop in 2023, they will most likely not go down, but rather flatten out. Check out the price of the cigarette boat and fishing boat now!

Ten years of enjoying countless trips on boats never made me love them any less! So I am here to put all those experiences into good use for other boaters who want to have a safe and fun trip with their friends and families.

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Will Boat Prices Go Down in 2023? – Best Time to Buy a Boat

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

The question, “Will boat prices go down in 2023?” is a considerably hot topic on numerous boating platforms. Based on boating industry trends in the past two years and the continuous rise of the boating market, the short answer is that boat prices are highly unlikely to go down in 2023 due to pandemic-caused supply chain disruptions and the continuing popularity of boating in general. Read on to know the exact explanation for this trend.

Table of Contents

What’s Behind The Rise In Boat Prices And Is It Likely To Continue Or Plateau

Unsurprisingly, used boats are on high demand, some helpful tips to keep in mind to make the most out of your money.

Most of it hinges on supply and demand as well as the manufacturing challenges being faced by the boating industry at large. In 2021 alone, roughly a year since the pandemic hit, the boating industry was already booming, and experts are expecting it to carry on for a long time due to the following reasons:

• Shortages in workers and materials to construct boats as a result of the spike in demand naturally resulted in the marked bump in prices.
• Essential boat materials like steel and aluminum are at an all-time high due to COVID supply-chain disruptions.
• The 2022 boating industry forecast points toward a hefty 2% rise in boating sales.
• It doesn’t help that marketers are continuing to innovate the way they draw new people into boating, usually through subscriptions and membership in boat clubs.
• Boat buying is mostly a word-of-mouth business, wherein almost any boat owner has a potential new prospect in his or her immediate circle.
• As long as people have disposable income, the demand for boats will stay hot. So to those asking, “When will the boat market crash?” It will most likely only come along with a major recession.

That being said, some experts are expecting the rise in prices to slow down now that the world is slowly opening up. They’re banking on the supply finally catching up with the demand as early as 2023, but even so, nothing’s ever really set in stone. Moreover, the prices may only plateau for a few years then increase again.

And many owners are also finding them a bit expensive. On average, a 20-foot boat can still cost as much as $15,000, after all. Comparing used boat prices in 2023 to prices for new vessels, though, you can still save well over 50% of the usual prices of the latter.

In fact, one of the most promising boating industry trends in 2023 is the rise of the used boat market. This is mostly dictated by myriad factors such as boat owners who rode the pandemic bandwagon and bought boats but are looking to sell them now with the roads slowly reopening.

There’s also a noticeable rise in demand for used boats, and for people looking to make a profit from their past vessels, there’s no better time than now to strike a terrific deal. We also have the pandemic to blame for the shortage of new boats, thereby, forcing most consumers to simply buy and refurbish used vessels.

• The best time to buy a boat is generally in September or October when many manufacturers offer substantial price cuts.
• If you’ll settle for nothing less than new boats, check out sites like this one, which shares a list of new boat prices 2022 along with noteworthy offerings you can get for a bargain.
• Regularly attend boat shows. Before you do, though, make sure you already have a set budget and stick to it.
• Be mindful of any additional costs you may have to pay once you buy a new or used boat . You may have to set aside an emergency fund if you don’t prefer marine insurance.

Consider watching this video to get more helpful boat buying tips:

Will boat prices go down in 2023? Are boat prices going to come down any time soon? Based on the facts stated here, to say yes is to shoot for the moon. Forecasts still show a continuous rise in demand and sales for this year. However, you can always opt for used boats and rely on the cost-saving tips we shared here to still manage well within your budget.

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Average Sailboat Price - 2023

Buying a new cruising sailboat is an expensive, yet rewarding investment. On average, these boats will cost around $250,000; however, prices can range from as low as $100,000 to upwards of half a million dollars. Used models have been known to be available at much more affordable rates between $10-100K.

Introduction

Are you starting to look into purchasing a sailboat for yourself, but don't know where to start? Buying a sailboat can seem overwhelming and pricey at first, but with the right information in hand, you can easily find an affordable and reliable one. Knowing how much you should expect to spend on average on top-of-the-line sailboats will help guide your decision-making process so that you end up with the best boat for all of your sailing needs – while still staying within your budget! In this blog post, we'll explore what kind of prices are out there today, as well as projected average sailboat prices for 2023. Let's get started!

Factors that Influence Sailboat Prices

There are several factors that can influence the price of a sailboat, including:

The size of a sailboat is one of the most significant factors that can affect its price. Generally, larger boats will cost more than smaller boats, as they require more materials to build and often come with more advanced features and amenities. 2. Type of Sailboat There are several different types of sailboats, each with its own unique design, features, and intended use. Some common types of sailboats include:

• Cruising Sailboats: These boats are designed for comfortable and extended stays on board, often featuring spacious cabins and other amenities.
• Racing Sailboats: These boats are built for speed, with streamlined designs and lightweight materials that allow them to move quickly through the water.
• Daysailers: These boats are designed for short trips or day trips, with smaller cabins or no cabins at all.
• Performance Sailboats: These boats are designed for competitive racing and feature high-tech materials and advanced designs.

The age of a sailboat can also play a role in its price. Older boats may be less expensive but could also require more maintenance and repairs. Newer boats may be more expensive, but they typically come with more advanced features and may require less maintenance in the long run. 4. Material The material used to construct a sailboat can also have a significant impact on its price. Some common materials used to build sailboats include fiberglass, wood, and aluminum. 5. Manufacturer The manufacturer of a sailboat can also affect its price. Some manufacturers are known for producing high-quality, premium boats that come with a higher price tag, while others produce more affordable boats for the average sailor.

Average Sailboat Prices by Type

Now that we've covered some of the factors that can influence sailboat prices, let's take a closer look at the average prices for different types of sailboats.

• Cruising Sailboats

Cruising sailboats are designed for comfortable and extended stays on board, with features like spacious cabins, kitchens, and bathrooms. These boats are ideal for sailors who want to spend a significant amount of time on the water, either exploring the coast or traveling long distances. The average price for a new cruising sailboat ranges from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and manufacturer. For example, a 30-foot cruising sailboat from a well-known manufacturer could cost around $150,000, while a larger 50-foot sailboat could cost upwards of $500,000. If you're in the market for a used cruising sailboat, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30,000 to $200,000, depending on the age, condition, and features of the boat. A well-maintained, used 30-foot cruising sailboat from a reputable manufacturer could cost around $50,000, while a larger, more luxurious 50-foot sailboat could cost upwards of $200,000.

• Racing Sailboats

Racing sailboats are designed for speed and agility, with streamlined designs and lightweight materials that allow them to move quickly through the water. These boats are ideal for sailors who are interested in competitive racing or want to experience the thrill of high-speed sailing.

The average price for a new racing sailboat ranges from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and manufacturer. A smaller racing sailboat, such as a 20-foot model, could cost around $50,000, while a larger 50-foot racing sailboat could cost upwards of $500,000.

If you're looking for a used racing sailboat, prices can vary widely depending on the boat's age, condition, and features. A well-maintained, used 20-foot racing sailboat from a reputable manufacturer could cost around $20,000, while a larger, more advanced 50-foot sailboat could cost upwards of $200,000.

Daysailers are designed for short trips or day trips, with smaller cabins or no cabins at all. These boats are ideal for sailors who want to enjoy a day on the water without the commitment of an extended trip.

The average price for a new daysailer ranges from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the size and manufacturer. A smaller 16-foot daysailer could cost around $20,000, while a larger 25-foot model could cost upwards of $50,000.

If you're looking for a used daysailer, prices can range from $5,000 to $30,000 depending on the boat's age, condition, and features. A well-maintained, used 16-foot daysailer from a reputable manufacturer could cost around $5,000, while a larger, more advanced 25-foot daysailer could cost upwards of $30,000.

• Performance Sailboats

Performance sailboats are designed for competitive racing and feature high-tech materials and advanced designs. These boats are ideal for sailors who want to experience the thrill of high-speed sailing and compete in regattas.

The average price for a new performance sailboat ranges from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on the size and manufacturer. A smaller 20-foot performance sailboat could cost around $50,000, while a larger 50-foot model could cost upwards of $500,000.

If you're looking for a used performance sailboat, prices can vary widely depending on the boat's age, condition, and features. A well-maintained, used 20-foot performance sailboat from a reputable manufacturer could cost around $20,000, while a larger, more advanced 50-foot sailboat could cost upwards of $200,000.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Sailboat

When buying a sailboat, it's important to consider your needs, budget, and level of sailing experience. Here are some factors to consider:

• Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use your sailboat. Will you be taking extended trips or just day trips? Do you want to compete in regattas or just enjoy a leisurely sail? Your intended use will help you determine what type of sailboat is right for you. 2. Budget Set a budget before you start shopping for a sailboat. Remember to factor in the cost of maintenance, repairs, and any additional equipment or accessories you may need. 3. Size Consider the size of the sailboat you need based on your intended use, budget, and level of sailing experience. Larger boats will generally cost more, but they also offer more space and amenities. 4. Material Think about the material you want your sailboat to be made of. Fiberglass is a popular choice as it's durable and low maintenance, while wood can be more expensive and require more upkeep. 5. Manufacturer Choose a reputable manufacturer with a history of producing high-quality sailboats. Look for reviews and recommendations from other sailors to help you make an informed decision. 6. Condition If you're considering a used sailboat, carefully inspect the boat for any damage or signs of wear and tear. Look for any cracks, dents, or soft spots on the hull, and check the rigging and sails for any signs of damage. 7. Equipment and Accessories Consider what equipment and accessories you'll need for your sailboat, such as a navigation system, safety equipment, and communication devices. Factor these into your budget when shopping for a sailboat. 8. Sailing Experience Consider your level of sailing experience when choosing a sailboat. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with a smaller boat that's easier to handle. More experienced sailors may prefer a larger boat with more advanced features.

Tips for Buying a Sailboat

Buying a sailboat can be a complex process, but these tips can help you make an informed decision:

• Do your research: Research different types of sailboats, manufacturers, and prices to get an idea of what's available and what fits your needs and budget.
• Get a survey: If you're considering a used sailboat, hire a professional surveyor to inspect the boat before you make a purchase. This will help you identify any issues or repairs that may be needed.
• Take a test sail: Before you make a final decision, take the sailboat for a test sail to see how it handles and if it meets your needs and expectations.
• Factor in additional costs: Remember to factor in the cost of maintenance, repairs, and any additional equipment or accessories you may need when setting your budget.
• Consider storage and docking: Think about where you'll store and dock your sailboat, as these costs can add up over time.
• Don't rush: Take your time and don't rush into a purchase. It's important to find the right sailboat that meets your needs and budget.

The average sailboat price varies widely depending on the type, size, and manufacturer of the boat. Sailboats can range from small daysailers to large, advanced-performance sailboats, with prices ranging from $5,000 to over $500,000.

When buying a sailboat, it's important to consider your intended use, budget, and level of sailing experience. Take the time to research different types of sailboats and manufacturers, and factor in additional costs such as maintenance, repairs, and equipment.

By following these tips and taking a thoughtful approach to buying a sailboat, you can find the right boat that meets your needs and budget and provides you with years of enjoyment on the water.

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Boat Price Forecast and Trends for 2023 - 2024

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The boating industry has experienced significant changes in recent years, with the COVID-19 pandemic fueling an unprecedented surge in demand. This article delves into the forecast for boat prices in 2024, considering various economic factors and market trends.

New Boat Price Trends

In 2022, new boat prices saw an average increase of 10%. Experts anticipate this trend to continue, with a projected rise of 2-5% in 2023. This increase is expected to sustain into 2024, with prices remaining higher than pre-pandemic levels. Factors contributing to this trend include:

• Supply Chain Issues : Shortages of materials like fiberglass and labor constraints have impacted production, keeping prices elevated.
• High Inflation : Inflation, at 40-year highs, affects the costs of materials, labor, and transport, exerting upward pressure on boat prices.
• Interest Rates : With higher interest rates, financing becomes more expensive, possibly influencing demand and prices.

(Source: Sportfishhub )

Used Boat Price Trends

The used boat market has been robust since 2020, driven by limited inventory. This trend is expected to plateau at high levels in 2024. Key insights include:

• Intense Demand : A shortage of used boat inventory has led to significant demand, pushing prices upward.
• Market Value Retention : Well-maintained used boats are selling for a high percentage of their original retail price.

Economic Factors Impacting Boat Prices

Boat pricing is closely tied to broader economic conditions:

• Oil Prices : As a key component in boat manufacturing, rising oil prices directly impact production costs.
• Inflation and Interest Rates : Higher inflation reduces consumer purchasing power, while increased interest rates make loans more expensive, potentially dampening demand.

(Source: BoatTEST )

Market Dynamics

The pandemic-induced demand for outdoor recreational activities has significantly influenced the boating market. Key aspects include:

• Surge in Demand : Many consumers turned to boating as a safe recreational activity during the pandemic.
• First-Time Buyers : A high number of new entrants to the boating market has helped sustain demand.

(Source: BoatBlurb )

Potential Recession Impact

A widely predicted recession could introduce new dynamics into the market:

• Reduction in Consumer Spending : Economic downturns typically lead to reduced spending on luxury items like boats.
• Used Boat Market : The recession could increase the availability of used boats, leading to more competitive pricing.

The forecast for boat prices in 2024 indicates a continuation of recent trends, with both new and used boat prices expected to remain high. This trend is driven by ongoing supply chain issues, economic factors such as inflation and interest rates, and sustained consumer demand. However, the potential impact of a recession could introduce new market dynamics, possibly affecting pricing trends.

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Will Boat Prices Go Back Down?

At the start of 2020, we’ve been seeing boat prices go way higher than many expected. Even today, in 2022, when this post was written, we’re still seeing boat prices at newer and higher prices.

This begs the question, will boat prices ever go back down?

The honest answer is most likely no; the prices for boats will never go back down to the prices we had before the pandemic.

Prices for boats may stagnate, but I don’t see prices going down to the “ before times “.

Why Are Boat Prices So High?

The reason boat prices are so high is that there is a lot of demand for boats and there is a low supply of them.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, many people were looking to stay home more and do more activities that didn’t require being around many people.

Boating was the perfect thing, and as the summer came in, 2020 boats were selling like crazy. Everything was fine at first as most dealerships had plenty of boats to go around from new to used.

Then as 2020 ended, the weight of the problem started to show through.

Places Where Shut Down

Many manufacturing plants and other items needed for boats were shut down during lockdown.

While everyone wanted a boat, we were slowly losing the ability to make these boats.

Then we had supply chain issues; manufacturers couldn’t get the raw materials to make boats. Just like car manufacturers were having trouble getting chips for the electronics, so were boat manufacturers.

It was so bad that many manufacturers started shipping incomplete boats to dealerships and letting them complete the boat. The dealers liked this as most of them had no inventory at all to show customers, so something was better than nothing.

Demand Created Waiting Lists

With demand so high, it created a waitlist of orders.

You would pick out the model you wanted and get in line with others to wait for your boat to come in. The dealerships had no inventory so this was the only way to buy a new boat.

It could take months or another year before you got your boat, but this was the only option for some.

Used Prices Are High, Too

When new boat prices started increasing, it drove many people to buy used.

This caused the prices of used boats to go up as the demand for them went up. And some people were willing to pay it, especially after being priced out of new models.

It got so bad that the people who bought a boat before 2020 could have sold the same boat for what they paid for, with some even making a profit. I’ve never seen anything like this in all my years in the boating industry.

Will Prices Ever Go Back Down?

I’m doubtful boat prices will go back down, but it’s possible they may stagnate for a few years before going back up again.

Inflation is usually silent through the years, but since the pandemic, people seem to have become more aware of it. Combined with supply issues, it’s the perfect storm for prices to go up.

The biggest reason I’m doubtful boat prices will go down is that they never go down. Every year, the manufacturer raises prices because of inflation. It’s rarely noticed, and some manufacturers may even skip a year for some models and eat the cost. But the price increases could not be hidden now, and people are just more aware of them.

Just to give you an idea with simple numbers, I remember the top-of-the-line jet ski costing $13,000 back in 2007. The top of the line jet ski in 2022 now cost $18,000. Boats follow the same line on the chart.

The simple truth is that boats are more expensive than people realize and will only go up in price every year just like everything else in life.

Boats Cost More Than People Realize

Before the pandemic, I would get people who were shocked at what boats cost.

From time to time, I would occasionally get people who thought they could get a 26-foot pontoon for under $15k back in 2018 but slowly realized such a boat does not exist, maybe in 1998, but not in 2018.

The best ones are the boat shows when you hear people say, “this pontoon cost as much as our house.” Yeah, it’s not uncommon for a pontoon to cost over $100k, with some even going above $200k.

Getting A Boat Under MSRP?

During the pandemic getting a boat under MSRP was quite rare; before then, it was quite common.

The markup on a lot of boats is quite large. It’s not uncommon to see a boat with an MSRP of $80k sell for $60k before the pandemic. The more expensive the boat, the more money they can play with.

Now it’s common to see a boat go for above MSRP.

Dealerships don’t do this to be greedy, but they’re affected by the supply chain issues and staffing issues too. Many manufacturers had to cut back production, so dealers have fewer boats to sell, so they need to make up the difference, or they go out of business.

There do exist some dealerships with boats that they’re willing to sell for under MSRP. There’s always one boat or one type of boat that no one wants that the dealership wants it gone.

As things taper off, we may see more people being pickier about what boat they want because they have to pay so much. So dealerships having less desirable boats they want to move may be the way you get in.

To be clear, these less desirable boats are not bad ; people are just being picky because they have to pay a lot.

What Boat Seems To Fair The Best?

Oddly enough, it’s been jet boats that seem to have faired the best through this.

Not many people know about jet boats. While everyone was more focused on the traditional bowrider, they forgot to check all their options.

Also, jet boats use jet ski engines, and they do more of those, so you have better odds of getting a jet boat. Many of the problems people were having with getting a boat was due to the engines, with many manufacturers shipping boats without them. Many boat engines are just repurposed truck and SUV engines and with auto manufacturers having supply issues this leads to problems for boat manufacturers too.

If you need a boat and find them hard to get, then you should check out jet boats.

Should You Wait To Buy?

The problem with waiting is that you can’t time the market.

Prices will not get any cheaper, and there is already a list that many manufacturers have for new customers.

So it’s best to put your name on the list and get a boat with an option to back out of your deposit.

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2023 Boat of the Year Best Dinghy: Tiwal 3R

• By Dave Reed
• December 16, 2022

Sailing World Magazine’s  annual Boat of the Year tests are conducted in Annapolis, Maryland, following the US Sailboat Show. With independent judges exhaustively inspecting the boats on land and putting them through their paces on the water, this year’s fleet of new performance-sailing boats spanned from small dinghies to high-tech bluewater catamarans. Here’s the best of the best from our  2023 Boat of the Year nominees »

The High-Pressure Ripper

• Tiwal 3R 2023 Best Dinghy
• Stated purpose: Recreational sailing, one-design and rally racing
• Crew: One to two
• Praise for: Performance, comfort, portability
• Est. price as sailed: $8,900

The surest way to grow sailing is to make it easy to get on the water with minimal hassle on a boat that is exhilarating to sail—and that’s exactly what the inflatable and ­powered-up Tiwal 3R does. Thousands of Tiwal fanatics around the world can’t be wrong; they love their zippy little crafts, and the Tiwal community has grown ever larger since its young French innovators launched the first model a decade ago. The Tiwal 3R is the continuing evolution of a great idea—with even better execution. Tiwal boats keep getting better, and this one is its best yet.

The “R” is for Race, and that’s because after two years of playing and adventure racing on the early-edition Tiwal 3s, keener owners started asking for more. But the engineering required to make Tiwal’s high-pressure inflatable hull and aluminum frame take on greater rig and structural loads that had them stumped for nearly two years, says Emmanuel Bertrand. They kept breaking it until they got it right.

At 10 feet and 121 pounds fully rigged, the magic of the Tiwal 3R is its portability, which would explain why the company says it sells so many in urban areas around the world. The sail, hull, blades, five-part composite spar and boom, and aluminum frame pack into two 5-foot duffel bags. To put it all together at whatever water’s edge takes about 30 minutes; it’s mere minutes if the boat is coming off the car top already pumped and assembled.

The PVC hull construction is identical to all other Tiwals, but the design for the 3R is a big improvement, with a more pronounced V-shape, a bit more rocker, and a reinforcement plate on the bottom near the transom, which gives it stiffness and a cleaner exit. “It’s difficult to get a hard corner on inflatables,” Stewart says, “so that’s a great solution to give it a nice sharp edge and a cleaner break so the water isn’t bubbling up over the back.”

When I got my weight in the right spot, the boat just took off. It’s quicker than quick. —Chuck Allen

The gust-responsive rig and big sail, built with North Sails racing cloth, is what takes the boat a big step from the recreational sailor’s Tiwal 3 to the racing sailor’s 3R, Powlison says. “This is the same size sail as a Laser, 77 square feet, which is a lot of power. When you get the vang set right, it does make a big difference. It is an effective control that they got right.”

Powlison’s only desire was to be able to get the sail controls to run farther back on the rack, accepting, however, that this would unnecessarily complicate the setup.

Allen, who’s been a Tiwal fan since the original, is impressed once again. “You definitely get a lot more performance out of this thing,” he says after sailing the boat in 10 to 15 knots and flat water. “I got hit with a puff and was like, dang! This thing’s got some wheels. It’s much faster and stiffer. I’m 170 pounds and was able to stay out on the rack the entire time, even when it got light.”

Stewart’s assessment of the 3R is that it’s built for a slightly more advanced sailor. “This thing is higher tech, with a lot more control lines, so it’s a bit more boat to handle. That being said, I’m a big guy (the manufacturer’s stated maximum load on the wing is 242 pounds), and I was never sitting in water, so it will accommodate a wide range of people.”

Getting the purchase systems for the 4-to-1 cunningham and the two-part vang (all of which are doubled-ended) into the mast collar hardware was an engineering exercise, says creator Marion Excoffon. But the end result is a system of color-coded lines and color-matched Harken blocks that work effectively and smoothly to depower the sail. Once the control systems are assembled, they don’t need to be rerun. When rigging, simply slide the mast into the collar, hook up the mainsheet, attach the rudder, and cast off for a fast and sporty adventure.

“Every time I got a little puff, the boat zipped right along,” Allen says. “The foils are stiff and shaped well, so the boat goes upwind really nicely. The bow was stiff and wasn’t flopping in the chop. But the best part was reaching around in the big puffs, sitting at the back corner of the rack, with the boat just skimming. When I got my weight in the right spot, the boat just took off. It’s quicker than quick.”

• More: 2023 Boat of the Year , Boat of the Year , Dinghy , Print Winter 2023 , Sailboats
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First refuelling for Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov floating NPP

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The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactor units. In such reactors, nuclear fuel is not replaced in the same way as in standard NPPs – partial replacement of fuel once every 12-18 months. Instead, once every few years the entire reactor core is replaced with and a full load of fresh fuel.

The KLT-40S reactor cores have a number of advantages compared with standard NPPs. For the first time, a cassette core was used, which made it possible to increase the fuel cycle to 3-3.5 years before refuelling, and also reduce by one and a half times the fuel component in the cost of the electricity produced. The operating experience of the FNPP provided the basis for the design of the new series of nuclear icebreaker reactors (series 22220). Currently, three such icebreakers have been launched.

The Akademik Lomonosov was connected to the power grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020.

Electricity generation from the FNPP at the end of 2023 amounted to 194 GWh. The population of Pevek is just over 4,000 people. However, the plant can potentially provide electricity to a city with a population of up to 100,000. The FNPP solved two problems. Firstly, it replaced the retiring capacities of the Bilibino Nuclear Power Plant, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya Thermal Power Plant, which is more than 70 years old. It also supplies power to the main mining enterprises located in western Chukotka. In September, a 490 km 110 kilovolt power transmission line was put into operation connecting Pevek and Bilibino.

Image courtesy of TVEL

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• Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen is offering $13,000 off the 2023 ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus with new lease deal

In a fire sale, Volkswagen is offering $13,000 off the 2023 ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus with a new lease deal as it gears up to launch new EVs.

2023 Volkswagen ID.4 lease deal offers $13,000 off

The Volkswagen ID.4 was the fifth best-selling EV in the US last year, with sales up 84% from 2022.

With a starting price of $38,995, the ID.4 is already one of the most affordable electric SUVs in the US. The Standard range model, powered by a 62 kWh battery, has up to 209 miles range. A larger 82 kWh delivers up to 275 miles range in the ID.4 Pro.

The ID.4 is powered by a rear electric motor with 201 hp. With an added front axle, the AWD ID.4 Pro models deliver up to 295 hp and 255 miles of range.

Volkswagen announced earlier this year that “most” 2023 and 2024 ID.4 models will qualify for the full $7,500 EV tax credit. Only ID.4 models with US-made SK On battery components will be eligible.

As Electrek reported in December 2022 , some 2023 ID.4 models have LG battery components due to a previous supply agreement. Both SK and LG Chem provide batteries for the RWD ID.4 models with the 82 kWh battery pack. Meanwhile, the AWD and standard 62 kWh ID.4s are powered by SK batteries.

Volkswagen announced it’s now offering $13,000 off the 2023 ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus with its latest lease deal.

Only ID.4 models with SK batteries qualify. 2024 models with LG batteries are not included. To see which battery the ID.4 has, you can check the window sticker.

The news comes as Volkswagen looks to clear room for new electric models. VW announced a longer-range 2024 ID.4 model ( check out our review ), and two new EVs are rolling out, including the ID.7 and ID Buzz.

Starting at $54,445, the new lease deal could bring the starting price of the ID.4 AWD Pro S Plus, down to $41,445. That’s less than the ID.4 S and ID.4 Pro.

Earlier today, we reported that VW is sticking to its EV game plan in the US with plans to launch a larger electric SUV in the next few years.

If you want to take advantage of Volkswagen’s massive ID.4 lease deal, we can help you get started. You can use our link to find 2023 VW ID.4 models on clearance at a dealer near you.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Peter Johnson is covering the auto industry’s step-by-step transformation to electric vehicles. He is an experienced investor, financial writer, and EV enthusiast. His enthusiasm for electric vehicles, primarily Tesla, is a significant reason he pursued a career in investments. If he isn’t telling you about his latest 10K findings, you can find him enjoying the outdoors or exercising

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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Elektrostal Hotel & Travel Guide

Travelocity's Russia hotels database doesn't list any place to sleep in Elektrostal.

When you and your family plan to book Travelocity-listed hotels near this region of Russia, Moscow could be an ideal alternative. It can be located 35 miles (54 kilometers) from Elektrostal. Moscow hotels and apartments include he The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow .

Once you and your family have got to know Elektrostal, why not explore a little more of the area? The Central Russia district has myriad things to offer visitors. Discover Central Russia's old towns and don't forget to see the region's forests, rivers, canals and mountains. In this corner of Russia adventurous travelers might partake in ice skating and four-wheel driving.

35 miles (59 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal you will find Garden Ring, where you can spend a little time at the Arena CSKA. Khoroshevskiy rooms include the Kutuzovsky prospekt II and Hotel Bega . If you're looking for an alternative, you can visit Garden Ring, 35 miles (53 kilometers) west of Elektrostal. While you are in Garden Ring, take the time to explore the State Literary Museum. The Hotel Savoy Moscow and Hotel Metropol Moscow are great places to retire for the night.

While in town, don't miss out on enjoying thrills and spills in the company of fellow supporters at an engaging game. Luzhniki Stadium can be found 35 miles (58 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal. Book a Travelocity-listed hotel right in the thick of the sporting action at the Moscow Suites Noviy Arbat or the LikeHome Apartments Arbat .

Before you and your traveling partner journey to Elektrostal, make sure you browse Travelocity's Elektrostal city guide where you can hear local secrets about the numerous attractions on offer.

Elektrostal hotels essential information

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