Sticker Shock at Yacht Show has many looking for alternatives

You are thinking about buying a yacht, but you are not sure if the investment of more than 1 million is for you. Well, think again. There are companies that can make yacht ownership not only enjoyable, but also affordable and virtually risk-free.

We know that people engage in many activities to enjoy, and sailing is one of the most fun activities. Owning a luxury yacht carries a certain prestige, a kind of status symbol. This is mainly because yachts cost millions to purchase and maintain. And with such a high cost, even the wealthy are looking for alternative ways to own a luxury yacht without all the maintenance hassle.

When we first buy a yacht, the excitement is there, and although sailing is a fantasy for most, let’s face it, there are so many days that you will realistically use it. The problem is that maintenance can’t wait for you to come back, it’s a constant and ongoing task for as long as you own the yacht. Insurance often requires a full-time Captain on board. Some captains have a basic knowledge of mechanics and cleaning, but it’s not something they like to do. You will most likely need to add additional staff for polishing, mechanics, electrical, cleaning, etc. Some think they can keep the yacht on the water with little to no maintenance. Think again: filters need to be changed, oil changes need to be done, bottom of barnacle growth needs to be cleaned, filters need to be cleaned. , repaired air conditioning units, generators and motors also need maintenance. The list is endless. Marine mechanics and electricians charge a pretty penny for their work and the bigger the vessel, the deeper their pockets must be. So, in addition to the purchase price of the yacht, be prepared to dish out another 10% per year of the total cost. I am not trying to discourage you from enjoying the yachting lifestyle, on the contrary, just to be honest with what is involved in owning a yacht. As a matter of fact, we encourage you to do your research. These are obstacles that we try not to think about, or think will somehow disappear while we are busy enchanted by the beauty of the yachting lifestyle, the yacht itself and the prestige that comes with it.

What if you could have your cake and eat it too? What I mean by this is to have your yacht, share your expenses with other owners and still have pride of ownership, equity and use the yacht when you would like to use it. How about a fractional ownership company that provides you with your own cruise crew, a cleaning crew, a private concierge who does all your arrangements, maintenance crew, mechanic, electrical engineer, laundry services, just to name a few? Simply put, a large fractional company can have your yacht ready when you are and when you’re done, your crew will take care of everything. This will help you immensely in keeping your yacht expenses down. Best of all, no one but yourself will know that you don’t own the yacht.

A luxury yacht is not your ‘everyday’ boat. The size of a yacht varies between 40 feet and 328 feet in length. This provides plenty of space to enjoy – you have enough fun while cruising on the waters. Having said that, a yacht, as we all know, is a depreciating asset, so don’t be surprised if the millions you pay today are worth only a few hundred tomorrow. If this doesn’t matter to you, stop reading this: Fractional Yacht Ownership is not for you.

Now for those of you who want a luxury yacht and where investments apply then read on as there is a way you can invest wisely without excessive losses. The yachts come with luxury cabins that can accommodate as many guests as possible, sometimes up to twelve or more. Your friends, family or co-workers can join in on the fun and space wouldn’t be an issue. They will have enough accommodations to make your trip very relaxing and a lot of fun. Closing deals on yachts is also common among businessmen.

There are also tax benefits where you can write off up to $500,000 and with a fractional ownership company, acting as your management company, we can also rent out the weeks you won’t be using so you can offset any expenses. Many people would love to own a yacht, to enjoy all these comforts and also the elegant effect that comes with it. How about a minibar or a kitchen in the sea? Most yachts come with an indoor and outdoor bar or entertainment area, and professional bartenders ready to mix and serve your favorite whiskey. Come up on deck in the evenings and ‘wet your whistle’ with your fellow passengers while gazing out at the ocean. Speaking of class! Finely designed dining rooms are typically found on luxury yachts. Your guests are sure to have an exciting dining experience. What’s more, you can also set up an outdoor dinner for your guests to enjoy the beauty of the sunset and the sea.

However, a major obstacle is the price and maintenance expenses. This should no longer be a problem, as fractional yacht ownership is designed for people who want to enjoy the prestige of owning a yacht without the upkeep and hassle of ownership. And what is more? – You walk in and out in style, without worrying about cleaning or maintenance issues, since the management company takes care of everything.

Imagine this case scenario: You agree to meet your family or business partner at the yacht club for a few drinks while you wait for the rest of the family to join you. Meanwhile, your children, wife or grandchildren want to sunbathe or play in the yacht club pool. Now that the whole family has arrived, you are ready to enjoy your private yacht cruise to the Florida Keys. The Captain and crew await you on their private yacht. The stewardess serves you a few drinks before departure. You cruise to enjoy your time with your family or business associates and when your voyage is over, you simply leave in class and the crew prepares for cleaning and maintenance. Yes, it is that simple! And yes, this is the best way to own a yacht!