Yacht Sales Report: July 2012 U.S. Sales Volume Rises, Values Falls

While the overall number of brokerage boats and yachts sold in the United States increased 1% in July 2012, big-yacht sales declined significantly compared to July 2011. According to reports by YachtWorld.com member yacht brokerages in SoldBoats.com, the total volume of sales grew from 3,116 to 3,150 boats, although sales of boats over 45′ decreased from 234 boats to 186. The biggest percentage change took place in the superyacht category, off 75% from 16 boats to four. Lower sales among the larger boats were mainly responsible for a decline in the total value of boats sold to $237 million, from $338 million in July 2011.

For yacht brokers selling boats 45 feet and smaller, business improved in July, with 2,964 boats sold, a gain of 3%. And among the smaller size ranges, the weakest category all year, boats 26′ to 35′, made the largest gains, with sales of 1,280 boats, a 5% gain. The average sale price declined, however, in both 36- to 45-footers and 26- to 35-footers, while making a small gain among boats under 26 feet.

Powerboat sales were 2% higher in July than the previous year, with 2,650 boats sold, and were up 5 percent for the year to date with 15,885 completed deals. Sailboat sales declined in July by 3%, with 500 boats sold, and were level for the year to date, with 3,336 boats sold.

Overall, for the year to date, U.S. yacht brokerage sales volume was up 4%, with 19,221 boats changing hands. The total value of the boats and yachts sold was down 10%, with $1.98 billion in sales. The average number of days a boat was listed before selling was 266, dropping 15 days from the average a year ago.

Source: John Burnham Editorial Director YachtWorld.