What Is My Boat Worth? What to Send a Yacht Broker for a First Estimate

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What is my boat worth? Four details to send for a first estimate.

Suppose two cruising yachts left the same yard in the same year. One still has its original standing rigging. The other has replacement rigging and dated invoices, but its engine hours are unknown. Which would you price higher? A broker needs a few details before the comparison means anything.

1. Identify the boat a buyer would compare yours with

Send the builder, exact model and build year. Add the version if you know it. A three-cabin owner’s layout and a four-cabin charter layout can appeal to different buyers even when the hull length is identical. If you are unsure of the version, say so. A layout sketch or a photo of the saloon can help.

2. Say where a buyer can see it

Country, town or marina, and whether the boat is afloat or ashore are enough for a first look. A buyer comparing two similar boats may need a flight, a launch or a delivery trip to inspect one of them. A public berth number or precise coordinates are unnecessary.

3. Show the boat as it looks today

Start with a recent side view, the cockpit, the saloon and the engine space. Daylight and an unobstructed view tell a broker more than a sunset shot. If there is an issue you already know about, include an overall view and a close-up so the broker can see its scale. Keep people and personal paperwork out of frame.

4. Date the work a buyer will ask about

For a sailing yacht, start with rigging, sails and engine. For a motorboat, include the engine model, hours if known, and the last major service. Distinguish a replacement from a repair: “new mainsail in 2023” is more useful than “sails upgraded.” Mention work still due. You can summarise invoices for now and share supporting documents later.

What the estimate can tell you

A broker can use these details to select comparable boats and discuss a starting asking-price range. Prices on live adverts are asking prices. Condition at inspection and the eventual negotiation can change what a buyer will pay. Ask which boats informed the range and which missing detail would change it most.

A message you can copy: “My boat is a [year, builder, model and version], currently [afloat/ashore] in [location]. The main work completed was [item and year]. The next job is [item]. I have recent photos. What asking-price range would you consider, and why?”

Tell us about your boat. If you would like a broker to suggest a starting asking price, mention that in your message.