Yacht Transportation Options For After the Sale
Yacht Transportation Options For After the Sale
Do you have your eye on a yacht that resides in a different area code or country? If so, don’t be so quick to remove it from your list. Yacht transportation options make it easier than ever to relocate a yacht after the sale. As always, ask your yacht broker/ dealership about the best options for yacht transportation. Thanks to their extensive network of marine professionals, they typically know of a trusted company right for your investment. With the correct recommendation, understanding, and preparation, yacht shipping is stress-free. Below is a guide about yacht transportation options available to you.
All information provided is for educational and informational purposes only, it is not intended as a substitute for professional advice.
Yacht Trucking
The first transportation option for your yacht after the sale is yacht trucking; aka on-land yacht transport by commercial trailers. These commercial trailers are capable of shipping oversized loads to various destinations throughout the country. Of course, complexity and price depend on the size and height of the vessel, traveling distance, destination, season, and optional services.
Yacht Trucking will also require transport permits, insurance coverage (both company and personal), and proper preparation. Choosing the right company is a crucial decision, as you will want to ensure the company is fully insured, legally permitted to transport, employ experienced and knowledgeable drivers, and guarantee secure transport. Always ask companies how they will protect your vessel in the event of theft or damage.
Yacht Transport Ship
For yachts located overseas, yacht transport shipping is available. While most people believe this option is just for superyachts, many often carry boats ranging from 40-80 feet. This option loads your yacht directly from the water via a ship crane onto a ship’s deck cargo. With no height restrictions, shipping a larger boat, sailboat, or custom-built yacht is complete with ease.
Pricing for this type of yacht transportation option varies by size and weight. Larger yachts typically require additional resources, which drive costs up. The final destination also plays a role in pricing— the longer the haul, the more expensive it will be. Insurance, with any shipping method, is critical. Never assume an agreement will cover your yacht. Find out about coverage options for this type of transportation before booking a space on a ship.
Container Shipment
For smaller vessels, transporting internationally via freight is available in 40-foot shipping containers. Container shipping is one of the cheaper methods available while still providing top-level security. On the downside, restrictions apply. Vessels must be less than 38 feet and have 7 feet 8-inch beams at max. Boats are safely secured in the container on their side or by straight-in loading. Once loading is complete, the container is then transported to a ship for departure.
Yacht Delivery Captain
Another option for yacht transportation is by hiring a captain to relocate your vessel. This option is cheaper than using a yacht transport ship, but it is a big undertaking and requires the right kind of labor. First things first, you will want to ensure the captain is licensed and has experience navigating waters en route to its final destination. Give yourself adequate time to find a captain, at least four weeks before your closing date or departure. Once you find a reliable captain, check with your insurance company before any transit to ensure your policy covers navigational limits and captain/crew. If additional crew members are needed to relocate your yacht, the captain can work with you on hiring personnel.
Another thing to keep in mind: always have an executed contract in place before letting anyone onboard your yacht. See below for the bare minimum a contract should contain. Again, your yacht broker and/or dealership should be able to help you find a well-suited captain to deliver your yacht and assist with any legalities.
Basic Contract Requirements:
- Destination
- Point of Departure
- A window period for departure
- Time underway (estimated)
- Required route
- Details of travel
- Running expenses
- Per Diem for captain/crew
- Setting restrictions on repairs & running expenses for captain/crew
- Defined means for settling disputes
Yacht Transportation Tips:
With any shipping option, patience is of the essence. Depending on the size of your yacht and the destination, transportation can vary anywhere from 3-4 days, up to a couple of weeks. Know what to expect from the shipping company/delivery captain, and be sure to give yourself adequate time for shipping to ensure safe arrival.
Shrinkwrapping or winterizing your vessel before any kind of loading transport is highly advised and will provide an extra layer of security while in transit.
Related Articles:
First-Time Yacht Buyer Insurance Guide
Buying a New Yacht Checklist & Tips
Yacht Financing Options | Yacht Buyers Guide
Policies & Coverage | Yacht Insurance Guide
