Buying the right yacht is a big moment, but what happens when that yacht isn’t anywhere near you? Maybe it’s docked in another state, across the country, or even overseas. That’s where yacht transport comes in.
Thanks to modern logistics and marine transport services, relocating a yacht, whether it’s 30 feet or 195 feet, is easier than most buyers and sellers expect. From overland trucking and professional delivery captains to international shipping via cargo vessels, there’s a solution for every route, every vessel, and every budget.
And if you’re working with FYI Yachts, you’re never on your own.
We help you find the yacht that fits your lifestyle, no matter where it’s located and then we help you figure out exactly how to get it home. Whether it’s a few hundred miles or an ocean away, we’ll help you identify the best transport method and connect you with trusted professionals to handle every detail.
But before you plot your yacht’s course, it’s important to understand that yacht transport is a complex process—one that requires careful planning, thorough preparation, and precise execution. From choosing a reputable transporter to prepping your vessel and knowing what to expect at both pickup and delivery, being well-informed is the best way to ensure your prized yacht arrives safely and securely at its new home.
Choosing a professional and reliable yacht transport service is crucial for the safety and security of your valuable vessel.
The Yacht Transport Journey: What to Expect
Relocating a yacht is a multi-step process, and knowing what to expect at each stage brings peace of mind. Here’s how the journey typically unfolds:
Initial Consultation & Inquiry
Start by reaching out to your broker or a reputable yacht transport specialist. You’ll discuss your yacht’s details, origin, and destination to determine the best method—land, water, or cargo ship.
Custom Quotation & Agreement
After gathering your yacht’s specs and route, you’ll receive a tailored quote outlining costs, timelines, and terms. Once you’re comfortable, you’ll review and sign the agreement before submitting payment.
Planning & Scheduling
With the paperwork complete, the team schedules the transport. This includes reserving equipment, securing permits, and locking in shipping or loading windows based on vessel and route availability.
Pre-Transport Preparation
Depending on the method, your yacht may need prepping—removing arches, draining fluids, securing loose items, or gathering customs documentation for international moves. The transporter will guide you through every requirement.
Loading & Handover
Overland: The yacht is carefully lifted via travel lift or crane onto a specialized trailer.
By Water: A delivery captain and crew board the vessel, running through safety and operational checks before departure.
Cargo Ship: The yacht is lifted or floated aboard using cradles and heavy-lift gear, then secured for the journey.
Tracking & Updates
Throughout transit, you’ll receive regular updates—sometimes with live tracking links—so you can monitor your yacht’s progress and be ready for its arrival.
Arrival & Unloading
Once at the destination port, marina, or shipyard, the yacht is carefully unloaded, inspected, and prepared for handover. If a captain delivered it by sea, you’ll coordinate with their team for the final walkthrough.
What Happens During Yacht Pickup?
When it’s time for your yacht to start its journey home, there’s a bit of choreography involved to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Scheduling and Coordination
First, you and your chosen transport provider will agree on the perfect pickup date—one that fits your calendar and ensures you have time for preparations. Clear communication here goes a long way in keeping everything on track.
Final Checks and Confirmation
A few days before the big move, it’s wise to double-check the details with your transporter. This little step helps prevent unnecessary surprises and keeps everyone on the same page.
Pre-Transport Inspection
Once your transport crew arrives, they’ll give your yacht a careful inspection. Expect detailed notes and plenty of photos, documenting your boat’s condition before it ever leaves the dock. This record is your peace of mind should you need it later.
Safe and Secure Loading
Depending on the size and style of your yacht, the loading might involve a cradle, a travel lift, or even a crane. For boats hitching a ride overland, they’ll be secured onto a purpose-built trailer—think of it as a tailored ride for your vessel, designed to keep it snug on highways and byways. Larger yachts get a bit more fanfare, sometimes involving heavy machinery for safe lifting and placement, always handled by seasoned professionals.
With these steps handled, your yacht is ready to hit the road—or the sea—en route to your new adventures.
What Details Do You Need for an Accurate Yacht Transport Quote?
Before you can set sail (well, figuratively) on your yacht’s journey home, you’ll need to gather some details for the transport pros. The more precise info you provide, the smoother the quoting (and shipping) process will be.
Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
- Yacht specifics: Length, beam, height, weight, and hull type. This isn’t the time for guesswork; dig up that owners manual or build sheet.
- Current location and destination: Exact marinas or docks, including addresses if possible. Special access notes (like restricted bridges, or limited draft) are always helpful.
- Preferred transport method: Do you want your yacht hauled overland on a specialized trailer, sailed by a captain, or shipped via a transport vessel?
- Timeline: When are you hoping to have your yacht moved? Flexibility can sometimes mean better rates.
- Unique requirements: Folded arches, unmasted rigs, customized railings—make sure to mention any features that could affect handling or loading.
Think of it like booking a flight, but with a few (thousand) more pounds involved. The clearer the information, the more accurate your quote—and the fewer surprises down the line.
How to Request (and Actually Understand) a Yacht Transport Quote
Once you’ve found your dream yacht, the next step is getting a clear idea of what it will cost to bring her home. Requesting a yacht transport quote doesn’t have to be a guessing game—just make sure you have your details ready, and you’ll avoid any surprises.
What Do You Need?
Start by gathering the essentials:
- The size, weight, and type of your yacht (think LOA—Length Overall—as well as width and height, including any towers or radar arches).
- Your starting point and destination (be specific—marina, city, port).
- The method you have in mind—are you shipping by land, sea, or having a delivery captain bring her in?
- Your preferred time frame (flexibility here can sometimes save you money).
The more thorough you are upfront, the more accurate your quote will be.
Getting Quotes: What to Look For
When quotes start rolling in, take a closer look at what’s actually included. Don’t just scan the total—pay attention to:
- An itemized list breaking down the main costs: transport, permits, insurance, and any extras like shrink wrapping or special cradles.
- A clear explanation of what’s covered—and what’s not. For example, does the price include port fees, customs handling, or just the bare minimum?
- Willingness to walk you through the numbers. If a company isn’t transparent about charges, ask follow-up questions until you’re satisfied.
And don’t be shy—reach out to a few reputable companies (like United Yacht Transport, Sevenstar, or Peters & May) so you can compare. Consistency in pricing and service offerings is usually a good sign.
Key Factors That Influence Pricing
Don’t be surprised if prices vary. Things that will sway your quote include:
- The length and weight of your yacht (bigger boats require heavier gear).
- The distance between pickup and drop-off, especially if you’re looking at an international hop.
- Timing—peak boating seasons often mean higher demand and prices.
- Any special requirements like expedited shipping, extra insurance, or disassembly and reassembly of parts.
Collect your information, ask questions, and compare your options. Soon enough, you’ll have a clear path (and cost) to getting your yacht safely home—no matter where she’s waiting for you.
How to Evaluate and Compare Yacht Transport Quotes
Choosing the right yacht transport provider starts with understanding what’s actually included in their quote. Not all quotes are created equal—some are as straightforward as a sunset cruise, others as mysterious as the Bermuda Triangle.
Here’s how to make sense of it all:
- Look for Transparency: A reputable company should lay out every cost upfront. Expect to see a clear breakdown covering transport fees, required permits, insurance options, and extras like loading or offloading services. If there’s “fine print,” it should be easy to find.
- Clarify What’s Included: Always double-check for inclusions and exclusions. Some quotes bundle in port handling, customs clearance, or even shrink-wrapping for protection. Others leave essential services as surprises for later—ask questions until you’re sure.
- Compare Apples to Apples: Don’t settle on the first offer. Gather quotes from established companies—think Sevenstar Yacht Transport, Peters & May, Dockwise or United Yacht Transport—and look closely at both cost and service. The cheapest isn’t always the best; reliability and professionalism matter just as much as price.
- Ask for Explanations: If something isn’t clear, speak up. A good provider will happily walk you through costs, line by line, so you know exactly where your investment is going.
Being diligent at this stage will help you avoid any unwanted surprises and ensure your yacht’s journey is smooth sailing from start to finish.
Yacht Transport by Land (Yacht Trucking)
Ideal for: Domestic moves across the U.S., especially for yachts under 60 feet.
Yacht trucking involves transporting your boat by a specialized trailer. It’s one of the most common and cost-effective ways to move a yacht within the country.
Key Requirements:
- Best for boats under 60 feet
- Travel lifts or cranes are needed for loading/unloading
- Parts like arches or radar domes may need to be removed
Preparation Tips:
- Always measure your yacht accurately, including height, width, and weight
- Remove or secure loose items and delicate electronics
- Choose a licensed and insured transporter with experience in yacht hauling
- Ask about permitting requirements based on your route
Pros:
- Fast for regional moves
- Great for inland destinations
- Affordable for mid-size vessels
Cons:
- Height/width restrictions may apply
- May require disassembly of parts
- Subject to road conditions and permits
What Impacts the Cost of Yacht Transport?
Whether you’re moving your vessel down the coast or across the globe, a handful of factors will steer your final transport quote. Let’s break down what typically drives the price:
- Yacht Size and Weight: The larger and heavier your yacht, the more specialized equipment (and expertise) required. Expect bigger yachts—think Pershing 9X or Sunseeker Manhattan—to bring heftier fees.
- Transport Distance: Simply put, the farther your yacht travels, the more you’ll pay, especially when crossing international waters or shipping to remote marinas.
- Seasonality: Demand fluctuates throughout the year. Peak seasons—like pre-summer or hurricane relocation times—can push prices higher, while off-peak months may offer attractive discounts.
- Additional Services: Need a rush job, extra insurance from companies like Lloyd’s of London, or custom cradles? These extras can increase your total cost. Even things like removing arches or prepping for unusual weather can add up.
Understanding these variables helps you set realistic expectations—and ensures there are no surprises when it’s time to bring your yacht home.
How Yacht Condition Is Documented Before and After Transport
Ensuring your yacht arrives in the same pristine condition it left starts with meticulous documentation—no shortcuts here.
Pre-Transport Inspection:
Before your yacht is loaded, a thorough visual inspection is performed. Expect teams to photograph every angle, from the hull to the helm, and note any existing dings, scratches, or quirks (hey, we all have them). It’s wise to create a checklist and an inventory of on-board items—remotes, cushions, miscellaneous gear—to keep track of all your valuables.
On Arrival:
Once your yacht reaches its new slip, another careful walk-through takes place. Both you and the transport crew review the original inspection report and photos side-by-side, ensuring the yacht made the journey unscathed. Any discrepancies or surprises? They’ll be addressed on the spot, with documentation supporting any insurance claims.
Why It Matters:
Detailed records protect both you and the shipper. Think of it as a “before and after” gallery, providing rock-solid proof of your yacht’s condition and peace of mind until you’re back behind the wheel.
Yacht Transport by Water (Delivery Captain)
Ideal for: Regional or coastal deliveries when your yacht is water ready.
If your yacht is in cruising condition, a professional delivery captain can relocate it by sea. This method works well when moving a yacht between marinas on the same coast or within nearby regions.
Key Requirements:
- Yacht must be seaworthy and fully operational
- Trip duration depends on weather, route, and distance
- Safety gear and insurance should be current
Preparation Tips:
- Choose a captain experienced with your yacht’s type and navigation route
- Monitor seasonal weather trends before scheduling
- Log engine hours and inspect after delivery
- Top off fluids and check all safety systems
Pros:
- No need to haul or disassemble
- Good for mid-range coastal moves
- Adds real-world testing time on the water
Cons:
- Adds wear and fuel costs
- Delays are possible due to weather
- Crew and maintenance costs can add up
Yacht Shipping by Cargo Ship (International or Long-Haul Transport)
Ideal for: Overseas transport and long-distance relocation (40 – 195+ feet).
Cargo ships designed for yacht transport offer a secure, professional way to move vessels across oceans. Yachts are either lifted or floated aboard and secured for the journey.
Key Requirements:
- Must be booked in advance
- Requires proper cradling and documentation
- Customs clearance and insurance are essential
Preparation Tips:
- Hire a yacht transport agent for international routes
- Insure your yacht specifically for shipping risks
- Prepare all necessary customs paperwork
- Remove valuables and personal items before shipping
Pros:
- Best for long-distance and international routes
- Minimal wear on the yacht
- Highly secure, scheduled transit
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Requires advance planning
- More paperwork and port coordination
Opting to transport your yacht—rather than piloting it across long distances—comes with some clear environmental benefits.
- Lower Emissions: Shipping your yacht aboard a cargo vessel or with a professional transport company typically results in less overall fuel consumption and reduced emissions when you factor in the efficiency of large-scale marine transport. Rather than burning extra fuel to self-navigate hundreds or thousands of miles, your yacht becomes part of an optimized route, much like how it’s more eco-friendly to ship goods in bulk rather than with many individual trucks or planes.
- Reduced Wear and Tear: Overland and ocean freight methods help you skip the added engine hours, which not only minimizes mechanical wear but also prevents accidental spills or leaks that can occur on long journeys. Fewer operating hours also mean a longer life for your vessel’s engine, translating to less frequent need for repairs and parts—another win for environmental stewardship.
- Preservation of Marine Environments: By avoiding unnecessary transits under your own power, you help reduce the potential impact on sensitive marine areas. You avoid dropping anchor in protected zones and limit the emissions in places not equipped to handle increased boating activity.
In short, professional transport isn’t just about convenience—it’s also a smart choice to help protect both your yacht and the waterways you love to explore.
International Yacht Transport Considerations
Moving a yacht internationally isn’t just about logistics—it’s about customs, regulations, and documentation. Depending on your destination, you may need:
- Import duties or taxes
- Flag state compliance
- Environmental or quarantine clearance
Working with professionals like FYI Yachts, who specialize in international yacht transport, is critical to avoiding holdups at port. Partnering with a reputable yacht transport company brings several key benefits to the process:
- Safety: Experienced crews use specialized equipment and proven techniques to load, secure, and unload your yacht, minimizing risk of damage during the journey.
- Efficiency: Professional transporters handle everything from route planning and permit acquisition to customs paperwork, ensuring a smooth, streamlined experience with fewer surprises or delays.
- Peace of Mind: With comprehensive insurance and clear, consistent communication, you’ll know your yacht’s status every step of the way—and can trust it will arrive in top condition, ready for the next adventure.
Choosing a skilled, reliable transport service isn’t just smart—it’s essential for safeguarding your investment and ensuring a hassle-free relocation.
Timing and Seasonal Factors
- 3–7 days, depending on distance and permitting (overland).
- Varies by route; average 1–2 weeks for domestic coastwise trips (by water).
- 2–8 weeks, including scheduling and customs (by cargo ship).
Seasonal timing is everything. Hurricane season (June–November), winter storms, and port congestion can all impact delivery time. Plan accordingly and consult your broker early in the process.
No matter how far your yacht needs to go, understanding the process and working with experienced professionals makes all the difference. Your yacht’s journey should be as smooth and enjoyable as the adventures that await you onboard.
