2025 Yacht Market Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Updated February 26, 2025

6 min read

2025 Yacht Market Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

The 2025 yacht market presents exciting opportunities for those looking to upgrade, sell, or invest in their next on-the-water adventure. Demand for larger, more personalized, and eco-friendly yachts is on the rise, while demand for well-kept, pre-owned models remains steady. Whether you’re considering moving up to a bigger yacht or listing your current one, staying informed on market trends will help you make the smartest decision.

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Where the Yacht Market Stands in 2025

The global yacht industry is experiencing steady growth, with the market size projected to increase from $9.06 billion in 2024 to $9.48 billion in 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.7%. Key drivers of this growth include:

✔ More buyers looking for larger yachts with high-end finishes and technology.
✔ Eco-conscious designs gaining popularity, making hybrid and fuel-efficient yachts a hot topic.
✔ Pre-owned yachts continue to experience steady demand, especially those that are competitively priced, offer a pre-sale boat survey, and feature modern amenities and recent upgrades.
✔ Rising interest in yacht charters, adding value to yachts designed with rental potential.

Top Trends Shaping the Yacht Market in 2025

Bigger, More Personalized Yachts Are in Demand

Many buyers are looking to move up in size, favoring yachts with more custom layouts, high-tech features, and long-range cruising capabilities. If you’re considering a new build, keep in mind that shipyards are booking out years in advance—so planning ahead is key.

Steady Demand for Pre-Owned Yachts

The pre-owned yacht market remains strong, though demand has stabilized following the surge in recent years. Shifting market conditions have created favorable opportunities for buyers, many of whom are actively seeking well-maintained, late-model yachts with modern technology and updated layouts. Yachts that are competitively priced, in excellent condition, and come with a pre-sale survey tend to attract the most interest. Additionally, pre-owned yachts offer the advantage of immediate availability, eliminating the wait times associated with new builds.

At the same time, some sellers who purchased yachts during the COVID-era did not fully anticipate the ongoing costs of ownership and maintenance. As a result, many are now listing their vessels, but deferred maintenance can impact resale value and prolong the selling process. To stand out in today’s competitive market, sellers should prioritize regular upkeep, price their yachts strategically, and provide a transparent maintenance history to instill buyer confidence and ensure a smoother transaction.

Green Yachts Are the Future

Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the yacht industry, with many new models featuring hybrid engines, solar panels, and fuel-efficient technology to reduce environmental impact. Buyers are drawn to these innovations not only for their eco-friendly advantages but also for the potential fuel savings over time. Investing in yachts with fuel-efficient systems and modernized technology can be a smart way to attract buyers and enhance marketability in the future.

The Charter Market Is Hot

Yachts designed for charter-friendly layouts with plenty of guest space and luxury amenities are attracting attention. Whether you’re looking to buy a yacht that can bring in rental income or sell one with charter history, this is an area where demand is growing.

Smarter Yachts Are Gaining Popularity

Advanced yacht technology is making ownership easier, more efficient, and safer than ever. Modern yachts now feature cutting-edge innovations designed to enhance performance, convenience, and onboard experience. Some of the top advancements include:

AI-Assisted Docking & Autopilot Navigation – Simplifies maneuvering in tight spaces and improves safety, reducing the reliance on large crew sizes.
Smart Automation Systems – Control lighting, temperature, entertainment, and security remotely via touchscreen panels or mobile apps.
Fuel-Efficient & Hybrid Propulsion Systems – Reduce operating costs and emissions without sacrificing power and range.
Advanced Stabilization Technology – Gyroscopic and electronic stabilizers minimize motion, ensuring a smoother ride in various conditions.
Integrated Monitoring & Predictive Maintenance – Real-time diagnostics and automated maintenance alerts help prevent mechanical issues before they arise.
Enhanced Connectivity & Satellite Communication – High-speed internet, 5G integration, and satellite communication ensure seamless connectivity anywhere in the world.
State-of-the-Art Security Features – AI-driven surveillance, motion detection, and remote access systems offer increased safety and privacy for owners and guests.

These innovations not only improve the ownership experience but also increase a yacht’s long-term value, making high-tech yachts more desirable in the resale market. Buyers looking for convenience and efficiency are prioritizing smart yachts equipped with these advanced features.

What’s Ahead for 2025 and Beyond?

Superyacht sales are expected to grow, as more buyers look for bigger, more capable luxury yachts.
Hybrid and electric yacht sales are expected to grow, as sustainability becomes a bigger factor.
AI-powered navigation and automated systems are becoming standard, making yacht ownership more seamless.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers: If you’re upgrading, plan ahead—custom and semi-custom builds require time, and well-priced pre-owned models with desirable features continue to sell quickly. If you’re looking for a yacht that holds its value, focus on those with fuel-efficient engines, smart tech, and modern styling.

For Sellers: If your yacht is a late-model, in good condition, and equipped with modern features, now is a great time to list. Well-maintained, ready-to-use yachts continue to attract strong buyer interest. To enhance marketability and maximize value, sellers should:

Stay on top of routine maintenance—a well-cared-for yacht is far more appealing to buyers. Neglected upkeep can raise red flags and weaken buyer confidence.
Schedule a pre-sale survey to identify and address potential issues before listing. Ensuring your yacht is in top condition will result in a faster sale and a smoother experience for both you and the buyer.
Maintain detailed service records of all repairs, upgrades, and routine servicing, demonstrating diligent ownership and care.

By proactively addressing maintenance concerns and presenting a well-kept, turnkey yacht, sellers can stand out in today’s competitive pre-owned market and attract serious buyers willing to pay a premium for a yacht in prime condition.

Top Brands in The Yachting Industry

We work with some of the most respected brands in the industry, and each of them is leading the way in these trends:

✔ Viking Yachts – The gold standard in sportfishing yachts. Viking continues to dominate the 60-90 foot market, blending luxury, power, and advanced technology. Their commitment to innovation is clear in their latest models, offering enhanced fuel efficiency and state-of-the-art helm systems.

✔ Valhalla Boatworks – Known for performance and reliability, Valhalla center consoles are designed for serious offshore capability, making them a prime choice for those who want a high-performance tender or standalone fishing machine with advanced features.

✔ Princess Yachts – For those looking to upgrade to a larger, custom-style yacht, Princess continues to deliver elegant, cutting-edge motor yachts with smart layouts and top-tier materials. Their hybrid propulsion research puts them at the forefront of sustainable yachting.

✔ Prestige Yachts – A leader in the luxury motor yacht market, Prestige excels in smart design, fuel efficiency, and seamless technology integration, appealing to buyers looking for the next level of convenience.

✔ Absolute Yachts – A strong player in the eco-conscious luxury yacht movement, Absolute is incorporating solar panels, hybrid propulsion, and modular yacht designs to maximize energy efficiency. Their designs appeal to buyers who prioritize green technology without sacrificing comfort.

Make Your Move: Why 2025 Is the Perfect Time to Buy or Sell a Yacht

Whether you’re moving up to a bigger yacht, selling your current one, or considering an investment in chartering, 2025 is shaping up to be a great year for yacht owners. With strong demand, evolving technology, and a growing focus on efficiency, now is the time to make your next move.

If you’re ready to buy or sell, our team is here to help every step of the way. With 55 years in business since 1970, we have built a reputation for exceptional customer service, industry expertise, and unmatched support. We are dedicated to making your yacht-buying or selling experience seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to explore your best options.

2025 Yacht Market Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Where the Yacht Market Stands in 2025

Top Trends Shaping the Yacht Market in 2025