Tips for Buying a Used Yacht

You might be under the impression that a yacht is beyond your budget, but that may not be the case. Depreciation means that many quality, lightly used yachts are available at reasonable prices. Of course, navigating the used yacht market takes a bit of skill, so read this quick guide from Spring Brook Marina.

Budget Considerations

As with any major purchase, the first step is to determine your budget. Bigger yachts naturally cost more than smaller ones, so buying used may allow you to purchase a larger vessel than you could afford otherwise. On the other hand, if you’re only looking for a small yacht, you can use the money you save for maintenance or upgrades, allowing for a more enjoyable experience. 

Your Boating Preferences

Another factor to consider is how you will use the yacht, both in terms of frequency and what activities you want to plan. You should also think about how many people you will be bringing along on your boating trips, as well as what your storage options will be for your yacht. By considering all of these factors, you can narrow down which yacht models are best equipped to meet your needs. 

Inspection & Test Drive

Most yacht owners take the time and expense to keep their boat well maintained. However, you should still research a prospective used yacht’s history. Look for any major and/or repeated maintenance issues. If you see a pattern, the used yacht may require further maintenance in the near future. 

After you have performed a thorough inspection, always opt for a test drive if possible. This will bring to your attention aspects of the boat’s performance that an inspection cannot. Pay attention to how much power the engine provides, how the electronics function, and if the propeller is still working as it should. If everything comes up clean, you may have a winner! 

To view new or used yacht models, visit Spring Brook Marina. We operate six locations throughout five Midwestern states, allowing us to serve the entire Great Lakes region. Whether you are visiting us in Chicago, St. Charles, or any of our other dealerships, we are always glad to see you, so visit us soon!