Jeff Sarkin Yacht Brokerage
Yacht Financing & Cost Calculator
Know exactly what you are getting into. No surprises.
Adjust the numbers, see the real cost, and find your boat.
Loan Calculator
Adjust the sliders to see your estimated monthly payment.
$165,000
$33,000
Loan Term
7.50%
Monthly Payment
$1,224
Total Interest
$88,258
Total Cost
$253,258
Financing $132,000 over 15 years at 7.50%
Principal vs Interest Over Time
PrincipalInterest
The REAL Monthly Cost
Your loan payment is only part of the story. Here is what it actually costs to own a yacht each month.
53 ft
Dockage
$1,219/mo
$23/ft × 53ft
Insurance
$385/mo
$4,625/yr
Maintenance
$1,375/mo
~10% of value/yr
Loan Payment
$1,224/mo
From calculator above
$400/mo
$150/mo
$200/mo
Total Monthly Cost of Ownership
$4,953
per month
Loan Payment: $1,224
Dockage: $1,219
Insurance: $385
Maintenance: $1,375
Fuel: $400
Electric: $150
Misc: $200
That is about $2,553/mo more than a 1-bedroom apartment in Fort Lauderdale ($2,400/mo).
What Can I Afford?
Set your total monthly budget and we will reverse-engineer the numbers.
$3,500
You Could Afford Up To
$165,000
With 20% down and a 15-year marine loan at 7.5%
That puts you in range of a 46-53ft Hatteras
The Math That Changes Everything
Think you cannot afford a yacht? Compare the numbers.
Renting an Apartment
$2,400/mo
$28,800/year. Zero equity. Landlord gets richer. You get a lease renewal.
$0 equity after 10 years
Owning a Hatteras 53
~$3,200/mo
$38,400/year. Building equity. Living on the water in South Florida. The dream is the commute.
Building equity + living the dream
The difference? About $800/mo. And you live on the water.
Smart Financing 101
What every first-time yacht buyer should know about marine financing.
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Marine Lenders vs Banks
Specialist marine lenders (like Sterling Associates or Trident Funding) typically offer better terms than traditional banks. They understand boat valuations and resale markets.
💰
Why 20% Down Is the Sweet Spot
Most marine lenders require 10-20% down. At 20%, you unlock the best rates and avoid private mortgage insurance equivalents. It also protects you from being underwater on depreciation.
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The Marine Survey
Every lender requires a professional marine survey before funding. Budget $25-35 per foot. A 53-footer runs about $1,500. This protects both you and the lender.
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Insurance Requirements
Lenders require full hull and liability coverage. Expect 2-3% of the boat's value annually. A clean boating safety course certificate can reduce premiums 10-15%.
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Documentation vs State Registration
USCG documentation provides nationwide validity and is often required by lenders for boats over 26 feet. It also simplifies international cruising.
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Florida Tax Advantages
Florida has no state income tax. Sales tax on boats is capped at $18,000. Live-aboards may qualify for homestead exemption. Consult a maritime tax professional.
Get Pre-Qualified
Jeff works with trusted marine lenders who specialize in classic yachts. Drop your info and he will connect you with the right financing partner.
Common Financing Questions
Everything you are afraid to ask about marine loans.