Avoid Regret, Embrace Adventure

There’s a well-worn saying among sailors: “The best two days of owning a boat are the day you buy her and the day you sell her.” Whether that rings true for you or not, it’s undeniable—buying a yacht is a big decision. And with a bit of foresight, it can be one of the most rewarding ones you’ll ever make.

Here are five crucial tips to keep your head in charge of your heart and ensure your sailing dreams don’t become maintenance nightmares.

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⛵ 1. Where Will You Keep Her?

Before you fall in love with a boat, think logistics. Mooring fees in popular areas (like the Solent) can be shockingly high. Some marinas have multi-year waiting lists, limited access at low tide, or are too shallow for deeper drafts.

Ask yourself:

• Is there a marina or mooring near home or work?

• What are the annual fees?

• Can you realistically get to her on a Friday night?

The most beautiful yacht in the world won’t bring joy if she’s inconveniently located and rarely used.

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🌊 2. Who Will You Sail With?

Sure, your mates are all thrilled now—but once the novelty wears off, regular crew can become scarce. Weekend obligations, family plans, and seasickness often trump sunset sails.

Choose a yacht you can sail short-handed or even solo if needed. Electric winches, furling sails, and autopilots can make a massive difference when you’re left to manage things alone.

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🛠 3. Teak Decks or Plastic Fantastic?

Do you dream of a classic bluewater beauty with polished teak and brass fittings? Or do you just want something that’s comfortable, reliable, and low-maintenance?

Be honest with yourself:

• Do you enjoy tinkering and polishing?

• Or do you prefer sailing, anchoring, and sundowners?

Maintenance is a major part of ownership. Buy the boat you’ll enjoy, not just the one you admire.

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📍 4. Understand the Real Costs

The price tag is just the beginning. Consider:

• Mooring fees: £400–£800+/month

• Insurance: Variable, but often £600–£1500/year

• Annual maintenance: Haul-outs, antifouling, rig checks, engine servicing

• Sail replacement: A new main and genoa can easily reach five figures

A yacht can bring unforgettable experiences—but only if you can afford to keep her afloat without resentment.

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🏆 5. Always Get a Survey

This cannot be overstated. A full marine survey might reveal hidden issues—osmosis, delamination, rig fatigue, corroded through-hulls—that could turn your dream boat into a floating money pit.

That said, all boats have quirks. Don’t panic if the survey isn’t flawless. Use the findings to renegotiate—or walk away, knowing you dodged a very expensive bullet.

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🚀 Final Thoughts

Owning a yacht isn’t just about the wind in your hair and champagne at anchor (though that’s certainly part of the appeal). It’s also about wise planning, realistic expectations, and understanding what kind of sailor—and owner—you are.

Keep your eyes open, your heart steady, and your priorities clear, and you’ll soon discover that the days between buying and selling might just be the best of your life.