The 80 foot yacht range is an important line in the yachting industry as many consider this the start of the superyacht category. For instance, Boatinternational.com begins tracking superyacht sales and build data of yachts around the globe of vessels 24 meters in length (78-79 feet).
And what does this data say? Well, Boat International indicates that in 2019, the 24-27 meter category is the fastest growing superyacht size range according to its global order book data. At 228 yachts in this range, it represents the highest number of yachts in the 24-27 meter range under construction since 2009. Up from 182, the increase to 228 projects represents a 25.3% increase in production year over year. This compares to an overall 7.37% increase in superyacht construction across all size categories worldwide.
Boat International’s global order book goes on to explain that this category has boomed in part due to the increased investment in model development by some of the world’s top yacht builders. Yards such as Princess, Azimut and Sanlorenzo have seen some of their models in this range shine with demand outpacing production. All told, the 80 foot yacht category is booming.
When purchasing an 80 foot yacht, the complexity of the product and purchase process increases when compared to, say, acquiring a yacht 60 feet and under. Walking through the potential use cases, guest accommodations, range and other amenities with an experienced yacht broker will typically yield the best results in finding the best fit for a buyer.
While many yachts in this range are outfitted with crew quarters, it’s not unheard of for owners to operate a yacht of this size by themselves due to new technology and features. For instance, bow and stern thrusters plus wireless docking controllers can enable owners to run and dock the yacht themselves. Still, on extended trips, even owner/operators can opt for crew to assist with operation and regular upkeep work along the way. Of course, many owners of yachts in this size range opt for crew to handle the operations for all use cases.
Yacht Type
Exploring the particular yacht types can be an important starting point for matching the best 80 foot yacht to you and your family’s needs. Express yachts (also referred to as express cruisers or sport cruisers) are yachts with a single deck above the hull paired with a living space below deck.
The flybridge or sedan bridge yacht refers to a yacht that includes an additional space above the main deck. This additional level is sometimes also called a command bridge or an enclosed bridge. It typically contains a control station and often an additional entertaining space.
Interior Layout
With yachts in the 80 foot range, the interior layout can vary widely depending on the model. Furthermore, a wide variety of options and amenities are available to suit your yachting lifestyle. A spacious salon with plentiful seating, dining and entertaining spaces is typical. Below deck, four or more cabins with an impressive master suite is to be expected. Additional crew quarters are common as well.
The finishes inside will often depend on the model and age of the yacht as well as previous owner tastes. If building a new yacht, the buyer will be able to tailor many of the finishes and interior selections around his or her exact tastes.
Considerations when buying a 80 foot yacht
If new to yachting, gaining solid experience and familiarity with yachts can be a crucial step in the process to buying a yacht. Many times this can be accomplished through chartering a yacht. Gaining familiarity through the use and operation of a yacht can be quite helpful in achieving clarity on needs and wants around a yacht purchase. What features and amenities did you notice are crucial to operation and life aboard the vessel? Do you anticipate needing crew? Is a smaller, easier-to-operate yacht more important to you or do you prefer maximum luxury and a longer range? Experience aboard a yacht will help you answer such questions.
As always, the budget is a key parameter when narrowing down your yacht options. There is always a bigger and more expensive yacht, so attempt to identify a price range that you are comfortable with while also factoring in maintenance, upkeep and operating expenses.
Leveraging a yacht broker to identify an initial list of yacht options to consider is a great next step. When looking at pre-owned yachts, there will always be a trade-off between age and size that the buyer will need to navigate. While newer boats will typically have less maintenance and upkeep costs, a pre-owned vessel can mean getting into a larger boat. The advice of a yacht broker is crucial at this stage of the purchase process.
Designing a custom new yacht is also a potential option for yacht buyers. The owner can participate throughout the entire build process from the earliest design phases to the launch of the yacht. Moreover, a semi-custom approach is possible through yacht manufacturers that permit owners to modify a production model to build. Of course, choosing the proper option based on your needs is easier with an experienced yacht broker at your side.
Resale value of the yacht – while perhaps not the most important consideration at the time of buying a yacht – is still something worth considering and discussing with your broker. The resale value of the yacht is mostly dictated by the quality of the build and finish, maintenance of the vessel during the years of operation, the age of the boat and the overall market conditions at the time of sale.
To conclude, with the complexity involved in purchasing an 80 foot yacht and the investment typically required, the process will often go as smooth as the yacht broker at your side. Ensure that your yacht broker has experience with the particular yacht type, size range and even model being considered. Not all yacht brokers are the same, and while many out there will claim expertise for any yacht category, ask the right questions to ensure they can properly advise with respect to the specifics of the potential transaction approaching.
Tom George Yacht Group yacht brokers focus on life-long relationships with clients and emphasize the long-term success of every transaction. TGYG brokers provide trustworthy guidance and assistance throughout not just the purchase process but through years of ownership as well.
Contact TGYG today to learn about the experience of the TGYG yacht brokers in this yacht category or if you have any questions about your yachting needs.
New 80 Foot Yachts to Consider
Hatteras M75 Panacera
The M75 features a gorgeous full-beam master suite in addition to a private VIP stateroom and designer-inspired twin staterooms for your guests. Along with a generous array of fine amenities, the M75 also offers the ability to introduce a range of custom details to ensure the yacht bears your personal stamp. The Tom George Yacht Group team has delivered custom builds of the M75 Panacera to clients and is quite familiar with the model. Contact TGYG to discuss further if interested. Click here to read more about the Hatteras M75 Panacera.
