How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Yacht? (2026 Price Guide)

Yacht prices in 2026: what you get at each level

The yacht market in 2026 spans an extraordinary range. At one end, a well-maintained 15-metre motor yacht from a reputable builder can be purchased for €200,000–€400,000. At the other end, a 60-metre superyacht from a top European shipyard costs €30–60 million new, and €15–30 million on the second-hand market. Understanding what you get at each price point is the starting point for any serious buyer.

€200,000 – €1 million: the entry-level motor yacht

At this price point you are looking at motor yachts between 12 and 18 metres, typically 10–20 years old. Builders at this level include Sunseeker, Azimut, Pershing, and Princess. These vessels accommodate 6–8 guests for day use and 4–6 guests overnight in 2–3 cabins. They are typically operated by the owner rather than a professional crew, though a day captain can be hired.

Annual running costs at this level are €30,000–€80,000 per year, covering insurance, marina fees, maintenance, and fuel. A vessel in this range does not typically support a full-time crew.

€1 million – €5 million: the serious private yacht

This is the most active segment of the second-hand market. At €1–5 million you can find motor yachts between 18 and 28 metres from builders including Sunseeker, Ferretti, Riva, Benetti, and Sanlorenzo. These vessels accommodate 8–12 guests in 3–5 cabins and are typically operated with a captain and one or two crew.

Annual running costs at this level are €150,000–€300,000 per year. A charter programme can offset a significant portion of these costs — a well-managed 23-metre yacht in the Mediterranean can generate €150,000–€300,000 in gross charter revenue per season.

€5 million – €20 million: the superyacht entry point

At €5–20 million you enter the superyacht market: vessels between 28 and 45 metres with full-time professional crews, multiple deck levels, and the infrastructure to support extended cruising. Builders at this level include Benetti, Sanlorenzo, Heesen, Feadship (older vessels), and Perini Navi (sailing). These yachts accommodate 10–14 guests in 5–7 cabins.

Annual running costs at this level are €500,000–€1.5 million per year. A full-time crew of 5–8 is required. Charter revenue can be significant — a 40-metre yacht in the Mediterranean can generate €500,000–€1 million per season.

€20 million+: the large superyacht

Above €20 million you are in the territory of vessels above 45 metres, built by Feadship, Lurssen, Amels, Oceanco, and a handful of other top-tier shipyards. These are bespoke vessels with build times of 3–5 years, full-time crews of 15–25, and annual running costs of €2–5 million. The market for these vessels is thin and transactions are typically private.

What affects the price?

Several factors drive yacht prices up or down beyond the simple size-and-age formula:

• Builder reputation — a Feadship or Lurssen commands a significant premium over a comparable vessel from a lesser-known yard.
• Refit history — a recently refitted vessel is worth more than one that is due for a refit. A full refit on a 30-metre yacht costs €500,000–€2 million.
• Class survey status — a vessel that has recently passed its 5-year class survey is worth more than one that is due for survey.
• Charter history — a vessel with a strong charter history and established bookings can command a premium, as the buyer is acquiring a revenue-generating asset.
• Seller motivation — a motivated seller who needs to sell quickly will accept a lower price. MY OCEAN's intelligence on price reduction history is one of the most valuable things we bring to a buyer.

How MY OCEAN approaches pricing

MY OCEAN tracks every comparable sale in the market. When we advise a buyer on price, we base it on actual transaction data — not asking prices. The difference between asking price and transaction price in the superyacht market is typically 10–20%, and sometimes more.

To discuss buying a yacht and get a specific price assessment for a vessel you are interested in, contact Lewis directly on WhatsApp or use the enquiry form below.

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