Expert Answers to Common Questions of First Time Yacht Buyers

Thinking about buying a yacht? We are here to help you start off on the right foot by answering the most common questions first-time buyers have, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

Question: What does a Yacht Cost?

Answer:

• Cape Yachts represents yacht models ranging from 28 to 63 feet in length overall, with prices starting around 250,000 dollars and exceeding 2.5 million dollars.

• Larger vessels, often referred to as superyachts, can reach well into the tens of millions of dollars depending on size, features, and level of customization.

• Annual operating costs are typically about 10 to 15 percent of the purchase price and can include: 

  • Maintenance and repairs
  • Docking and marina fees
  • Insurance
  • Fuel
  • Storage

Question: What type of yacht is best for first-time buyers?

Answer:

For buyers who are new to operating motorized vessels and want to own a yacht, a great option is a mid-sized motor yacht. These types of yachts offer intuitive helm stations, the latest technologies in electronics, and ease of use. Here are some things to consider: 

• LOA (Length Overall), consider how large a boat they will feel comfortable operating

• Maneuverability of the vessel, including integrated docking technology, bow and stern thrusters, good visibility from the helm. Being able to easily maneuver a vessel is key in avoiding accidents as a novice captain.

• How will they be using the boat: overnight cruising, fishing, entertaining? 

Some mid-sized motor yacht options at Cape Yachts include:

• The Antares Range from BENETEAU

• The 38R and 38X from MJM Yachts

• The 38 T-Top and Explorer from Wellcraft Boats

• For anglers, Jupiter Marine offers center consoles that have a smooth ride and are easily operated

For buyers who already have experience on the water and are looking to upgrade to something bigger and more comfortable, here are some additional options that Cape Yachts offers:

•  The 47X and the 47R from MJM Yachts
• The 44 Explorer from Wellcraft Boats
• The Gran Turismo Range from BENETEAU
• The Swift Trawler Range from BENETEAU (best for long-range cruising)

Question: What size yacht do I need?

Answer:

The right yacht size depends on what you want to use the boat for. Consider your boating goals. If your goals are long-range cruising with guests, a yacht with at least two cabins and plenty of entertaining space would suffice. 

Cape Yachts inventory that fits these needs:

• BENETEAU Antares 12 (Power)
• BENETEAU Gran Turismo 50 (Power)
• BENETEAU Swift Trawler Range (Power)
• BENETEAU Oceanis Range (Sail)

If your goals are weekend trips with your significant other, island hopping, and fishing, you would be comfortable in a smaller yacht:

• BENETEAU Antares 9
• BENETEAU Antares 11
• Wellcraft 38 Explorer
• Wellcraft 44 Explorer
• MJM 47X
• Jupiter 32, 340

Question: What features should a yacht have?

Answer:

• One or more cabins
• Full heads
• Multiple entertainment zones
• Swim platforms
• Modern kitchens
• The latest electronic technology
• Advanced navigation systems

Question: Can you drive a yacht yourself?

Answer:

For private yacht owners, it depends on whether vessel size requires a crew. Yachts over 80 feet typically require a crew for safety reasons. Smaller yachts can be owner operated. 

Since Cape Yachts represents vessels up to around 63 feet, most of our clients are in the range where:

• They can comfortably owner operate, or
• Choose light crew support for convenience

However, if you plan to carry paying passengers, operate charter yachts, or are paid to drive a yacht you do not own, you are required to have a U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license.

Final Thoughts