Once you have chosen to buy a new-build yacht, there are a number of questions that soon follow. The range of options on the market allows you to balance a number of factors, not only encompassing price and length but also speed of delivery and degree of customisation.
In 2015, there were 186 new-build yachts sold, representing a 17% increase on the previous year’s figures*. In that same year, there were 146 yachts delivered, both to expectant owners and as completed speculative builds in need of a buyer.
What might this mean for you as an owner looking to buy a new-build yacht rather than a previously owned yacht? As demand for new-build superyachts has risen in recent years, build slots have become harder to secure, particularly for fully custom yachts at the most prestigious yards in Northern Europe. But that is not to say that there are not plenty of attractive options at pedigree yards.
For many long-term owners, the time comes to build their dream yacht with all the facilities, capacity and details that they have learned are right for their needs. Additional time is needed for fully custom yacht engineering and design work, both technical and aesthetic. But for many owners, the longer wait time is worth it.
There is an excellent range of yards now offering semi-custom new-build platforms. This option reduces the overall waiting time and the number of technical decisions to be made. It is an attractive option, as it delivers a proven platform that has been refined over time. Of course, the more aesthetic choices for interiors will still be available to ensure the yacht feels truly special. But the waiting time for pre-engineering and technical design work is reduced or totally eliminated.
In some cases, construction on a semi-custom yacht project might have already been started by the yard before the contract is even signed, further reducing waiting time for the new owner.
Overall, a semi-custom yacht design can reduce the delivery time by a third or more, compared with a fully custom superyacht (see diagram below). The production yacht option offers the least flexibility in terms of design, layout and interior. The resulting pay-off is a much reduced wait until delivery. This can be a great option for first-time buyers.
The advice, experience and connections of your YACHTZOO broker will be an essential aid in finding the perfect new-build yacht option to match your needs. At YACHTZOO, our sales team is continually visiting yacht designers and shipyards across the globe to ensure we are up to date with the latest projects on the drafting board and in build.
Read more about YACHTZOO new constructions and projects.
*Figures from SuperyachtTimes.com
