Is ownership really out reach? Well, there are some options available for those of us that would like to think we have done quite well for ourselves but can╒t afford to pay the sky high amounts that billionaires such as Roman Abramovich and the Sheiks of Abu Dhabi paid for theirs. Azzam, built for Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed reportedly had a build cost of over US$400 million. Now that is out of reach for most!

 

A cost-effective option for you to get your foot in the door is to charter your superyacht out when you are not using it. A 30 metre Sunseeker, no slouch in superyacht terms, will set you back approximately AUD$6.5 million. A general rule of thumb is that you would also need to put aside approximately 10% of the value of the boat every year for maintenance costs. Letting your superyacht hire through an agent can help offset the ownership and yearly maintenance costs. International agents such as Fraser Yachts and Yacht Charter Fleet are very well know and reputable agents that can help guide you through the super yacht maze.  

 

These and similar companies will manage the chartering of the yachts as well as their maintenance and upkeep. You as the owner, will have a virtually hassle free process of ownership. Similar to a house or unit that is being rented out, except you get to come and stay on board regularly. High competition for luxury boats ensures that the vessel is chartered out for a good part of the year. In Sydney for instance demand is high for luxury corporate charters and VIP events. The Whitsundays, famous for its crystal clear waters and Great Barrier Reef, is always popular with international tourists. 

 

Owning your own luxury yacht is not that far out of reach. Ownership should be viewed as an investment and treated as such. Let the professionals manage and deal with the pressures of owning the vessel and you can enjoy using it when you like.