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One of the most surprising things about buyers of sailing boats over 30 feet is that not all are experienced sailors. Increasingly, newcomers are drawn to Caribbean yacht ownership for a different lifestyle sustained through charter income or the prospect of learning a new skill to enjoy an adventurous retirement.
Whether an experienced sailor or a complete novice, buying your first yacht is a major decision, but it can be quick and simple through an established operation like Horizon Yacht Charters. With knowledge and experience spanning 3 decades, their yacht sales team can answer all the questions and serve as a free resource, saving hundreds of hours in research and taking the hassle out of the process.
It is important to understand the difference between a dealer focused primarily on selling a yacht and a yacht management or charter company that can provide ownership support. Ask who will handle delivery, insurance, documentation, customs clearance, safety certification, licences, warranties and maintenance once the purchase is complete.
“While you don’t have to pick the management company before you buy a boat, you should be aware that you have a choice of who you buy from,” says Robin Hodges, Yacht Sales Manager for Horizon Yacht Charters. “Working with a sales and management company can create a more seamless route through selection, purchase, delivery, dockage, warranty and year-round maintenance.”
The first consideration in Caribbean ownership is where you want to keep and sail the yacht. Whether you want line-of-sight cruising in the British Virgin Islands or longer passages and island-hopping in St Vincent & the Grenadines, once you know, look carefully at the companies that can support you through ownership.
Maintenance is another major consideration. A yacht cannot simply be left at a marina for months and expected to be ready to sail without regular attention. Private management offers flexibility and carries costs such as dockage, insurance and servicing. Charter management, meanwhile, can generate income to help offset ownership expenses, but buyers should compare charter programmes carefully, particularly the balance between owner use, charter utilisation, maintenance responsibilities and income potential.
Prospective owners should also visit management bases before committing. Walk the docks, inspect older yachts and dinghies, look at cleanliness and onboard equipment, and ask what is included in the maintenance programme. The condition of boats already under management is often the best evidence of the standard you can expect.
Finally, think about the exit strategy and what happens when you want to sell, upgrade or leave a charter programme. Ask if brokerage support is available.
Horizon is the largest independent yacht sales and charter management company in the Caribbean, established in 1998, with bases in the BVI and SVG. Contact yachtsales@horizonyachtcharters.com for more information on new or brokerage boats If you’re heading to the Annapolis Sailboat Show, meet the crew on Dock I, Vacation Basin. Make a boat show appointment for private yacht tours and to discuss yacht ownership, financing and management programmes.
