Motor yachts – what do you look for? Tips & Experiences
Motor yachts come in a wide variety of classes, sizes and prices. Thanks to more than 20 years of experience in buying and selling motor yachts, we at Jachtmakelaardij de Maas know better than anyone else what to look for when buying a used motor yacht. To get you started we would like to give you some background information about motor yachts in general and what we can do for you in your search for the ideal yacht.
Used motor yachts
We specialize in the sale and purchase of used motor yachts. Our marina is centrally located in the Netherlands, to be exact in Alem (Gelderland). Here you are welcome for expert advice or a viewing of a used motor yacht, as you may have already seen between the offers on this website. But nowadays you can also come to us for new motor yachts. For example, as of 2020 we are the exclusive sales point for Excellent yachts, such as the beautiful Execellent Elegance 1200.
What do you look for when buying a motor yacht?
Besides brand, type and price, five points below are important in your search for your ideal motor yacht. Of course there are many more aspects to consider, but we’ll just highlight these basic points. On these points you can compare different motor yachts with each other.
- Dimensions: Here, pay attention not only to length and width, but also to clearance height. A motor yacht up to about a length of 12 meters is generally fine for a novice driver to drive. For larger boats, a bit more experience is required/advisable.
- Motorization: Important are power in horsepower, number of engines and fuel type. But also check the drive train, number of cylinders and (if known) running hours.
- Material: By far the most common hull materials for motor yachts are steel and polyester. However, wood is also common. One material (wood and steel) is more susceptible to maintenance than the other (polyester). We could devote a whole new article to the material. Be well informed.
- Year built: Of course, the year of construction says a lot about a motor yacht. But well-maintained boats can last a very long time.
- Condition: Always inquire about the (maintenance) condition and history of the boat. It is also a good idea to have the motor yacht inspected.
Different price ranges
As you can also see from our offer, the prices of motor yachts vary enormously. Of course you can make it as crazy as you want, but every budget is different. The important thing is to find a boat within your budget that meets your wishes as much as possible. Prices for used motor yachts are determined not only by the new value, brand and type, but also by the maintenance condition, year of construction, options/luxury, engines, size etc. We like to think along with you and can give you expert advice on what a suitable boat for you is within our current offer and within your budget.
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Frequently asked questions about motor yachts
What are the main concerns when buying a motor yacht?
When buying a motor yacht we pay attention to dimensions (including clearance height), motorization, the material used for the hull, year of construction and the general condition of the yacht. At Jachtmakelaardij De Maas we will guide you through this and make sure you make the right decision.
How important is the year of construction of a motor yacht?
The year of construction gives insight into age, but the state of maintenance often weighs more heavily. A well-maintained older motor yacht can often last longer than a younger, less well-maintained yacht. This is why we always recommend having a purchase inspection done.
What materials are most common on motor yachts?
Steel and polyester are the most commonly used hull materials. Steel and wood are more susceptible to maintenance than polyester. Be well informed about this. This choice depends on your personal preference and the time you want to spend on maintenance.
What role do the dimensions of a motor yacht play?
Size matters a great deal to your boating pleasure and the waters you wish to navigate. Length and width determine interior space and comfort, while headroom is essential for passing bridges. Think carefully about your cruising plans so that we can help you find a yacht with the right dimensions.
How do I determine what is a good size or length for my first motor yacht?
For novice drivers, a motor yacht up to about 12 meters in length is recommended. Larger boats usually require more experience.
How important is the motorization of a motor yacht?
The engine is the heart of a motor yacht. Power, number of engines and type of fuel determine performance and consumption. Whether you want to cruise leisurely on inland waterways or take to the sea, we will be happy to advise you on the motorization that best suits your sailing habits.
How do the prices of used motor yachts differ?
The price is also determined by the make, type, year of construction, maintenance condition, options/luxury, motorization and size of the motor yacht.
Why is an inspection recommended before purchase?
An inspection by an expert is essential to ensure the technical condition and maintenance history of the motor yacht. This can be done through a sea trial and inspection, possibly with the yacht out of the water.
Can I also go to Jachtmakelaardij De Maas for new motor yachts?
Yes, for new motor yachts you can filter by condition ‘new’ in our offer.
Is it possible to have my motor yacht appraised?
Jachtmakelaardij De Maas offers professional EMCI-certified appraisals that are accepted by insurers and banks.
How can I bid on a motor yacht?
A verbal agreement is basically binding; if you make an offer without reservations, you are stuck with it. A broker or seller will not enforce this quickly, but be aware that verbal agreements are taken very seriously.
A reservation may include financing, technical research or obtaining a berth.
You can make the offer verbally at the counter or by phone. Confirmation by email or whatsapp is recommended so everyone knows where they stand.
How will it proceed if my bid is accepted?
Once your offer is accepted, you can find out if the resolutive conditions apply. You have already made an appointment with the bank to withdraw the surplus value of the house before you make the offer.
The costs for the resolutive conditions will be borne by the buyer. The real estate agent will prepare a purchase agreement in which all agreements are included.
Is there a reporting requirement for defects?
The broker or seller has a duty to report, they will have to report all defects known about a boat in advance so you can make an informed offer. You as a buyer have a duty to investigate.
You may hire someone to do this, this may be a service technician from your service partner, this may be a yacht expert, if you are experienced and technical yourself you may choose to do it yourself.
You can also choose a mix by, for example, having the underwater hull done by a yacht expert, and the engine by your service partner or yourself. Please note that the costs involved will be borne by the buyer, i.e. you.
- Cost expert or mechanic from € 605 for a partial expertise
- Cost boat elevators from € 9.50 m²
- Cost of hosing down the boat
Please note that these are indicative prices.
Can there be cadastral or notary fees when purchasing a motor yacht?
A vessel may be registered in the land registry. This can be advantageous because, for example, the owner is foreign and wants to fly the vessel under the NL flag, the seller has established a mortgage or has used the vessel as a seagoing vessel.
The costs for canceling the mortgage are for the seller as well as any costs for canceling the cadastral registration. The cost of registering in the land registry is for the buyer as is the cost of registering any mortgage. Registering a sea-going vessel incurs additional costs, a notary must do additional research for this and request a nationality certificate.
- A cancellation of a mortgage costs €290
- A cancellation of cadastral registration costs €250
- A deed of transfer through the notary costs € 1080.30
- A mortgage registration costs €750
- A nationality certificate with examination costs €570
These prices are indicative please request quotes in advance.
What can Jachtmakelaardij De Maas do for me?
With more than 20 years of experience in the purchase and sale of motor yachts, we have the expertise to help you find your desired yacht. In addition to selling and buying motor yachts, Jachtmakelaardij De Maas offers expert advice, viewings, valuations and guidance during sea trials and inspections.