Financing a yacht
The yacht you want is closer than you think.
Most people assume yacht ownership requires significant capital upfront. The reality is different: marine finance is well-developed, competitive, and accessible to buyers across a wide range of budgets. From a €30,000 motorboat to a €3 million sailing yacht, specialist lenders work with buyers every day.
The key is understanding the landscape before you make an offer. Interest rates, term lengths, deposit requirements, and the role of a survey all vary between lenders and vessel types. Going in informed means going in with confidence.
Findaly's finance guide covers everything you need to understand your options. And when you've found your vessel on Findaly, you'll be ready to move quickly.
How it works
From search to sea, financed.
Understand your budget
Before searching for a vessel, know your total budget including deposit, survey costs, insurance, registration, and first-year running costs. Finance calculators can help you model monthly repayments at different rates and terms.
Get pre-approved
Approaching a specialist marine lender before you make an offer gives you confidence — and sellers confidence in you. Pre-approval typically takes 24–72 hours and requires proof of income and basic financial information.
Find your vessel on Findaly
With finance arranged in principle, you can search Findaly's marketplace knowing your numbers. When you find the right vessel, you can move quickly.
Survey and complete
Lenders typically require a professional marine survey for vessels above a threshold value. Once the survey is satisfactory, finance is confirmed and the sale completes.
Types of marine finance
Not all marine loans are the same.
Marine Mortgage
The vessel is used as security. Typically lower rates and longer terms (5–20 years). Best for higher-value purchases.
Hire Purchase
You pay in instalments and own the vessel outright at the end. Simple structure, predictable monthly payments.
Refinancing
Already own a vessel? Refinancing can release equity or reduce your monthly repayments. Common for upgrading to a larger boat.
Personal Loan
Unsecured lending for smaller vessels. Quicker to arrange, higher rates. Suitable for boats under €50,000.
What to know first
Key things every buyer should understand.
Marine finance has some important differences from property or car finance. Going in prepared avoids surprises at the wrong moment.
VAT status matters
Ensure the vessel has paid or exempt VAT status before committing. Unresolved VAT can add 20%+ to your total cost.
Survey is not optional
For financed purchases, a professional marine survey is almost always required. Budget €500–€3,000 depending on vessel size.
Running costs are real
Marina fees, insurance, maintenance, fuel, and crew (if applicable) typically add 5–15% of the vessel's value per year.
Vessel age affects terms
Most lenders won't finance vessels over 25–30 years old. Some specialist lenders exist for classic and vintage vessels.
Flag state and registration
Where the vessel is registered affects insurance, finance, and which waters you can legally sail. Get advice before purchase.
Findaly provides general information about marine finance for educational purposes only. This is not financial advice. Always consult a qualified marine finance specialist or independent financial adviser before making any financial decisions.
FAQ
Marine finance questions, answered.
Ready to find your yacht?
Browse every vessel. Find your match.
Findaly's marketplace connects you directly with sellers and brokers. Once your finance is in place, you can move fast.