Buy a motor yacht

What distinguishes a motor yacht from a motorboat?

The term "motor yacht" generally refers to motorised vessels from a length of around ten metres. Smaller motorised watercraft up to around seven metres in length are usually considered motorboats. The distinction is blurred and is strongly related to comfort and equipment. Motor yachts almost always have one or more decks, cabins with sleeping berths, sanitary facilities and living areas. They are therefore suitable for longer stays on board.
The main difference therefore lies in the combination of size, comfort and range. Characteristics that make motor yachts ideal companions for longer trips and higher demands. Whether seaworthy or not, sporty and fast or cosy and with a long range - motor yachts offer a wide range of possible uses. What would you like to experience on board your yacht?

The common sizes of typical motorboats

• Motorboat - up to 7 metres (up to approx. 23 feet)
• Motor yacht - from 10 metres (from approx. 33 feet)
• Maxi yacht - from 18 metres (up to approx. 59 feet)
• Megayacht - from 60 metres (from approx. 197 feet)

Good to know: From a length of 24 metres (approx. 79 feet), a boat is no longer considered a recreational watercraft under EU law.

Characteristic features of a motor yacht

• Motorised drive (petrol, diesel or electric)
• At least one deck and one or more cabins
• Comfortable facilities, often with living, sleeping and sanitary areas
• Independence from wind and weather and high travelling speed
• Shallow draught compared to sailing boats, therefore often more flexible when used

Due to its length, a classic motor yacht is usually equipped with an inboard engine. The engine sits completely inside the boat, usually in a separate engine compartment. Inboard engines save external space, improve stability and ensure better sailing characteristics thanks to their central position. Modern motor yachts are now available with engines ranging from a few hundred to several thousand horsepower.

Engine power for motor yachts - What you should know about horsepower figures

Engine power is a key criterion when buying a motor yacht. It is expressed in horsepower (HP) and has a significant influence on the speed, handling and intended use of the boat. For leisurely cruising on calm waters, lower horsepower figures are often sufficient, while a significantly more powerful drive is required for faster cruising or water sports.

Which types of motor yachts exist?

Motor yachts differ not only in their size, but also in their design, equipment and sailing behaviour. The most important types include:

• Sports yachts: They are flat, fast and elegant and therefore ideal for extended day trips or weekend tours at high speed.
• Flybridge yachts: They have a second steering position and a large outdoor area on the upper deck - perfect for socialising with family or friends.
• Trawlers: These motor yachts are cosy, robust and have a particularly long range. They are designed for long distances at moderate speeds.
• Explorer yachts: They are extremely seaworthy, offer plenty of storage space and have a large tank capacity - ideal for adventurous circumnavigators.
• Motorised catamarans: Two hulls ensure high stability and plenty of space, making them ideal for families.
• Luxury, mega or super yachts: These are large, usually professionally operated yachts with a crew and first-class equipment.

Planing, semi-planing and displacement: a comparison of motor yacht hull shapes

The choice of hull shape is decisive for the sailing behaviour, energy consumption and intended use of a motor yacht. Three basic concepts have become established on the market: Displacement, semi-planing and planing craft, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Displacement boats - efficient and convenient

Displacement boats remain completely in the water and travel at a limited hull speed. They are particularly efficient at low speeds, require little engine power and are ideal for long distances and heavy yachts.

Planing boats - fast and powerful

Planing hulls, on the other hand, partially lift themselves out of the water at high speed, allowing them to travel much faster. They are lightweight, heavily motorised and primarily designed for sports and short leisure rides.

Semi-displacement boats - the compromise

Semi-planing boats combine the characteristics of displacement boats and planing boats, as they partially lift out of the water. They are faster than dispplacement hulls but consume less fuel than planing hulls, making them ideal for versatile use with balanced handling behaviour.

Conclusion: The intended use determines the hull shape

The right hull shape depends on the purpose of your yacht: displacement hulls are ideal for relaxed long journeys with low fuel consumption, while planing hulls offer racy performance and speed but require a powerful engine. Semi-planes are particularly popular in the leisure sector, as they offer a good balance between speed, comfort and economy.

Areas of use: Where can you sail a motor yacht?

Motorised boats are extremely versatile. Depending on their design, hull shape and propulsion, they are suitable for a variety of waters.

• Inland waters and rivers: Ideal for shallow-draft vessels.
• Coastal waters and island hopping: semi-displacement boats and planing boats score points for speed and manoeuvrability.
• High seas and long distances: displacement yachts and trawlers offer comfort, large holding tanks and stability for longer passages.

Typical uses for motor yachts are holiday trips, weekend cruises, sports and water sports, events or simply relaxing on the water. Time on the water is often balm for the soul. Once you have experienced it, you will never want to miss this time off again.

What should you look out for when buying a used motor yacht?

A thorough assessment is particularly important for used boats. Pay attention to:

• Technical condition: operating hours, engine power, maintenance history, electrics, hull (e.g. osmosis on boats made of GRP/plastic).
• Equipment: number of cabins, galley, sanitary facilities, navigation systems, air conditioning, etc.
• Hull shape and propulsion: displacement hulls for long journeys, planing hulls for speed - depending on the area and use.
• Material: GRP/plastic is easy to clean, steel is robust and wood is charming - but high-maintenance.
• Survey and test drive are essential! Even better with an independent expert on board.

Our tip: Use Yachtall to search specifically for surveyed used motor yachts and exchange information with professional sellers.

How much does a motor yacht cost: purchase and maintenance

Smaller pre-owned motor yachts are available from around 20,000 euros, while new models usually start from 60,000 euros. However, the price can vary greatly depending on size, equipment, age and condition. There are hardly any upper limits.

When buying within the EU, value added tax (VAT) is also an important cost factor that must be taken into account.

Purchase:

• Used motor yacht from approx. 20,000 euros
• Luxury yachts, fully equipped: 200,000 euros to several million euros

Maintenance:

• Around 10 per cent of the purchase price per year.
• Costs for: Mooring, insurance, maintenance, fuel and winter storage.
• Additional expenses are incurred for repairs, conversions or for the crew.

Conclusion: Used boats generally offer significantly better value for money, especially after the initial depreciation has occurred. This is quite comparable to buying a car.

New or used - what is best for whom?

The decision between a new and a used motor yacht depends on several factors. The most important considerations can be structured as follows:

New boat:

• ➕︎  State-of-the-art technology and design
• ➕︎  Customised equipment
• ➕︎  Manufacturer’s warranty and services
• ➖︎  Higher costs and loss of value
• ➖︎  Longer delivery times

Used boat:

• ➕︎  Significantly cheaper
• ➕︎  Available immediately
• ➕︎  Larger selection of tried and tested models
• ➕︎  Equipment often included
• ➖︎  Technical condition requires inspection
• ➖︎  Higher follow-up costs possible

A new boat offers comfort, a guarantee and the latest technology, but is expensive and loses value quickly. A used boat is cheaper, often immediately available and frequently equipped with accessories. However, it harbours the risk of hidden defects and follow-up costs. Which option is best for you depends on your personal priorities, your budget and your willingness to take risks. Yachtall specialises in used motor yachts and offers a large selection of well-maintained yachts from various manufacturers and years of construction.

How do I find the right pre-owned motor yacht?

To find the right motor yacht, you should first define your requirements.

• Think about how many people will regularly be on board.
• Define the main purpose of use: day trips, longer cruises, sporty trips, overnight stays, etc.
• Clarify where you want to travel - on inland waterways, on the coast or on the open sea - and check the relevant requirements such as draught or trailerability.
• Finally, determine your budget and take into account not only the purchase price but also the running costs for mooring, maintenance and insurance.

In the second step, you should then consider the technical criteria.

• Dimensions: Check the length, width, clearance and weight, as these will determine where and how you can use the yacht.
• Motorisation: Performance, number of engines, operating hours, fuel type and maintenance condition are decisive.
• Material: Steel, polyester or wood - each material has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of maintenance and durability.
• Year of construction and condition: A well-maintained older boat can be better than a younger one that has been poorly maintained.
• Equipment: Check whether the yacht meets your comfort and safety requirements.

On reputable boat portals such as Yachtall, you can search for the yacht of your dreams using key parameters such as length, year of construction, price, number of cabins and engine power as well as specific categories. Here you will find a large selection of well-maintained, used motor yachts. The offer is updated daily and supplemented by helpful service offers such as the financing and insurance of boats.

Well-known manufacturers & model lines

There are numerous renowned manufacturers of motor yachts around the world, offering various ranges of models for different requirements and sizes. Below you will find an overview of the best-known brands that you will repeatedly come into contact with during your research.

European manufacturers:

• Jeanneau (France), model lines: Prestige, Merry Fisher, Leader, Cap Camarat, NC
• Bénéteau (France), model lines: Antares, Swift Trawler, Flyer
• Bavaria Yachts (Germany), model lines: Bavaria, BMB
• Princess Yachts (Great Britain)
• Fairline (Great Britain)
• Sunseeker (Great Britain)
• Azimut (Italy)
• Ferretti Yachts (Italy), model lines: Ferretti, Altura
• Cranchi (Italy)
• Absolute Yachts (Italy), model lines: Absolute, Navetta
• Nimbus (Sweden)
• Prestige Yachts (France)
• Linssen Yachts (Netherlands), model lines: Linssen, Grand Sturdy, Dutch Sturdy

American manufacturers:

• Sea Ray (USA), model lines: Sea Ray, L-Class, SPX, SLX, SDX, Sundancer
• Bayliner (USA), model lines: Bayliner, Bowrider, Element
• Hatteras (USA), model lines: Convertible, Express
• Formula Boats (USA)
• Cruisers Yachts (USA)
• Glastron (USA)

Used boats are a popular segment in the boat trade. They offer a wide range of models, sizes and prices. Used yachts are suitable for both beginners and experienced skippers who value comfort, performance and individuality. Many models from renowned manufacturers are in excellent condition as pre-owned boats and offer top performance at an attractive price.

Motor yacht vs. sailing yacht: what are the advantages?

If you want to be flexible, comfortable and fast when travelling, a motor yacht is the best choice. Motor yachts score highly in terms of comfort, speed, flexibility and ease of operation. Motorboats are particularly suitable for anyone who wants to be independent of the wind when travelling, values a quick change of location and appreciates a comfortable life on board.

• Independence from the wind
• Higher travelling speed
• Comfortable living space & technology
• Simpler controls, ideal for beginners
• Shallow draught = wider navigable areas

Anyone looking for a special sailing experience - i.e. peace and quiet, travelling close to nature as well as sporting and nautical challenges - is better served by a sailing yacht.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about motor yachts

How fast is a motor yacht?

Planing yachts reach over 30 knots (approx. 55 km/h), displacement yachts usually around 8 to 12 knots.

How big should a yacht be for beginners?

Boats up to about 12 metres long are manageable and easy to control.

Can I finance a used motor yacht?

Yes, many sellers co-operate with financing partners - boat financing is also possible via Yachtall.

Is it worth buying charter returns?

Yes, charter returns are boats that were previously used in commercial charter operations - i.e. rented out to holidaymakers or skippers. After a few years, these yachts are often taken out of the fleet and offered for sale. Charter returns are often technically well maintained and offer an attractive price-performance ratio.

Do I need a berth before I buy?

Not necessarily - but recommended. Without a permanent berth, day-to-day operations quickly become cumbersome. Many marinas offer seasonal or annual berths.

How much does the maintenance of a motor yacht cost per year?

As a rule of thumb: around 10 per cent of the purchase price per year - including berth, maintenance, insurance and operating costs.

Can I also use a motor yacht in winter?

Yes, with the appropriate heating and equipment, the boat can be used all year round. Alternatively, the boat can be transferred to winter storage.

Can I test drive my yacht before I buy it?

Yes, a test drive can and should be arranged with reputable sellers - ideally accompanied by an independent expert.

How do I find reputable sellers?

Look for complete documentation, proof of maintenance and transparency. Platforms such as Yachtall carefully check providers and boats.

Can I transport a motor yacht myself?

Only smaller boats with trailers can be transported on their own. Larger yachts require specialised boat transport.

Is a motor yacht suitable for families?

Absolutely, many models offer several cabins, safety on board and sufficient storage space for longer trips with children.