How to Purchase a Yacht

Buying a yacht is one of life’s boldest decisions — and one of the most exciting. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape, a long-range cruiser, or a base for entertaining, the purchase process can feel overwhelming at first. But with the right guidance, it’s smooth sailing from day one.

Here’s a clear and realistic look at how to purchase a yacht, step by step.

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Step 1: Define your needs and your lifestyle

Start with the basics. Ask yourself what kind of yachting life you’re aiming for. Is it coastal day trips or Mediterranean cruising? Do you need space for guests and crew, or something manageable for short getaways? Are you looking for performance, comfort, or a bit of both?

These answers will shape everything,  from size and layout to range, features, and price point.

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Step 2: Set your budget (and factor in the extras)

Beyond the purchase price, think about ongoing costs. Mooring, insurance, maintenance, crew, fuel, and upgrades can add up, especially with larger or more complex yachts. A good broker will help you understand what’s realistic and where your budget can stretch.

There’s also the question of whether the yacht is VAT paid, under a leasing structure, or owned through a company. These factors can influence your decision, especially if you're buying in Europe.

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Step 3: Work with a trusted yacht broker

The yacht market is global, fast-moving, and full of nuances. A professional brokerage like Brown’s International Yachts gives you access to off-market opportunities, expert guidance, and an experienced hand when it comes to negotiating, inspecting, and closing the deal.

We don’t just sell yachts — we help you find your yacht.

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Step 4: Shortlist, inspect, and compare

Once you've identified a few options, it's time to dig deeper. We’ll organise yacht viewings, either in person or virtually, and walk you through the details. From mechanical condition to service history and electronics, our job is to help you assess the real value of each option, not just how it looks in photos.

We’ll also flag any red flags and guide you through price comparisons and resale potential.

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Step 5: Make an offer and complete due diligence

Once you’re ready to move forward, your broker will submit a formal offer and then usually draft a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). This includes all the terms of the deal — price, deposit, timelines, and conditions.

From there, we coordinate the survey, sea trial, documentation checks, and any renegotiations if needed. Once both parties are happy, the final contracts are signed, the yacht is paid for, documents are exchanged and the ownership transfers.

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Step 6: Delivery, handover, and the fun part

Once the deal is complete, it’s time to get onboard! 

Organised prior to handover, we can also help arrange delivery logistics, registrations, insurance, moorings, and if need, also point you in the right direction for crew or maintenance.

From there, you can start your yachting adventure!

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Final thoughts

Buying a yacht isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about finding a vessel that fits your life. At Brown’s International Yachts, we bring clarity, honesty, and a wealth of experience to every transaction. Whether it’s your first yacht or your fifth, we’re here to guide you from first look to first voyage.

Ready to make it happen? Get in touch with our team and start your journey with confidence.