How Much Does a Superyacht Cost? Ownership, Crew, Fuel & Monaco Berthing Explained
Introduction
Owning a superyacht is the pinnacle of luxury, but with prestige comes a serious price tag. From the initial purchase to crew salaries, fuel, maintenance, and berthing in places like Monaco, the true cost of owning a superyacht extends well beyond its sticker price.
In this guide, we break down every major expense involved in superyacht ownership. Whether you’re considering buying your first vessel or simply curious about what it takes to maintain a floating palace, here’s a comprehensive look at the real financial landscape of life at sea.
What Is a Superyacht?
A superyacht is typically defined as a luxury vessel over 24 metres (78 feet) in length, fully crewed and often custom-built. Vessels over 60 metres are considered mega yachts, and over 100 metres, giga yachts.
Initial Purchase Price: How Much Does a Superyacht Cost to Buy?
| Length | Average Cost (New Build) |
|---|---|
| 30m (98ft) | €5 – €10 million |
| 50m (164ft) | €20 – €45 million |
| 80m (262ft) | €70 – €150 million+ |
| 100m+ | €200 million+ |
Factors affecting price:
- Shipyard and designer (e.g. Lürssen, Benetti, Feadship, Oceanco)
- Custom specs and layout
- Propulsion systems (diesel-electric, hybrid)
- Interior finish and materials
- Onboard extras: helipad, cinema, beach club, submarine, pool
Annual Running Costs: The 10–15% Rule
Most experts agree that annual operating costs = 10–15% of purchase price.
So for a €50 million yacht, expect to spend €5–€7.5 million per year.
Breakdown of Ownership Costs
1. Crew Salaries & Benefits
- Full-time crew (captain, engineer, chef, deckhands, stewardesses)
- Example (50m yacht): 10–12 crew members
- Annual cost: €800,000 – €1.5 million
2. Berthing Fees
- Monaco (Port Hercule): €1,500 – €4,000+/day depending on size/season
- Port Vauban (Antibes): slightly less, but limited for 100m+ yachts
- Long-term leases often run into the millions
3. Fuel
- Large yachts burn 500–600 litres/hour while underway
- Annual cost: €300,000 – €1 million+
4. Maintenance & Repairs
- Regular servicing, engine checks, anti-fouling, teak decking, repainting
- Annual budget: €500,000 – €2 million
5. Insurance
- Depends on yacht value, region, and risk profile
- Annual premiums: €150,000 – €1 million+
6. Provisions & Consumables
- Food, wine, toiletries, guest amenities
- Annual cost: €100,000 – €500,000+
7. Tenders & Toys
- Jet skis, chase boats, inflatables, diving gear, submersibles
- Replacement/maintenance: €50,000+ annually
8. Compliance, Surveys & Training
- Flag registration, safety drills, crew certifications, MLC/MCA compliance
- Budget: €50,000+ per year
Optional Extras That Add Up
- Helicopter: €1–3 million + pilot salary + fuel
- Chase Boat: €300,000 – €2 million
- Winter Storage/Refit: €500,000+ (for repainting, upgrades)
- Yacht Management Fees: €50,000+ annually
- Shore-based staff: Personal assistant, security, drivers
Chartering Out: Can It Offset Ownership?
Many owners charter their yacht for part of the year to recover costs.
- Typical charter rate (50m): €150,000 – €300,000/week
- Average annual charter revenue: €1 – €3 million
- Owner must still pay for management, maintenance, and downtime
Note: Charters subject to VAT (usually 20%) and strict maritime regulations
Monaco Berthing: One of the Most Prestigious (and Expensive) Addresses
- Port Hercule: 700 berths, up to 135m
- Port de Fontvieille: 275 berths, up to 30m
- Berths are limited and often leased long-term
Expect:
- €1,500/day (30m) to €4,000+/day (80m+) during peak season
- Berth rental or purchase can reach €10 million+ for prime locations
Ownership vs Charter: A Quick Comparison
| Category | Ownership | Charter |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | €5M – €200M+ | None |
| Annual Cost | €500K – €10M+ | €100K – €2M per trip |
| Flexibility | Unlimited use | Fixed duration |
| Status | Very high | Moderate |
| Responsibilities | High | Minimal |
Conclusion
Superyacht ownership is not for the faint-hearted. Beyond the dazzling aesthetics and bespoke design, owning a yacht is a full-time financial and managerial commitment. But for those with the means and passion, the reward is unparalleled freedom, prestige, and access to the world’s most luxurious lifestyle.
From mooring at Monaco’s elite marinas to exploring the Amalfi Coast or hosting grand soirées on the Med, your yacht isn’t just a vessel — it’s an extension of your vision, values, and status.
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