These vessels represent a thrilling intersection of versatility, affordability, and ready-to-sail convenience.
Stock boats, also known as production boats, stand as a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of boat builders worldwide, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. In this guide, we'll delve into the allure of stock boats, exploring their key characteristics, advantages, and the myriad possibilities they offer.
The Basics
The marriage of production yacht building and yacht dealerships has created the need for stock boats; models held by the dealer to show as examples of the range — and to hopefully sell on.
The job of the stock boat is to promote the wider brand, so it will usually be a popular model with high specifications. Better still, the dealer will want to sell the yacht, so a good deal might be available.
A good boat, built to a high specification, with no wait for delivery, at an attractive price point makes a stock boat very enticing. Of course, there will only be a limited selection of models available as stock boats, with very few dealerships carrying a large model lineup. This means is no guarantee you will find the exact yacht type you are looking for, but with some compromise, a stock boat is still a great option.
The other consideration here is that while the specification is good, it won’t be exactly what you want, as opposed to buying a new, built-to-order yacht where you can choose your own specification.
Reasons To Buy A Stock Boat:
- Instant gratification: no build or delivery times
- View before you buy: you can inspect the actual yacht you are considering
- Full new yacht benefits: warranties, dealer support, handover
- A good deal: stock boats can often be purchased for less than the list price
- Good spec: stock boats will usually be built to a high standard of specification
- No previous owner worries: zero chance of bad maintenance
- Dealer and builder support: Buyers can expect help with any retro-fit items
Retrofit Items
If you do decide to buy a stock boat, you can always retrofit equipment and items to make it feel more like your own yacht.
In some cases, you might be able to have new interior or deck upholstery fitted, direct from the factory, which will add a more personal touch. Should the yacht have been used at a show or the existing furnishings be slightly worn through demonstrations, you might be able to have new items fitted free of charge.
Typical retrofit items:
- Electronic navigational equipment
- TV and audio equipment
- Cushions and bedding
- Canopies and covers
- Synthetic teak decking
- Hull wrap
- Tender
Handover And Warranties
Stock boats come with full warranties, so you don’t miss out on a single day of protection. The selling dealer will know the yacht in question inside out so you can be sure of a good handover too, including hands-on training for boat handling.
This is an important part of the ownership process, where you or your captain can be familiarized with the operation of the yacht.
Warranties
A warranty is a major advantage to buying a new yacht. While you might not buy a yacht expecting problems, they do still happen, so it is good to know you're covered for the first few years.
Generally speaking, major warranties for the yacht, its components, and engines last for 3 to 5 years. When buying a new stock boat, all warranties should be in place, and set up by the dealer. All you have to do is adhere to set out service schedules.
Speculation 'Spec' Builds
Yacht speculation builds refer to the practice of constructing yachts with the primary intention of selling them for a profit, typically before the vessel's completion. This approach is common in the yacht industry and can be likened to the concept of speculative real estate development.
These yachts are usually over 30m (98ft) and are available to buy. By starting construction, the shipbuilder hopes to attract a buyer with a faster delivery time, while still offering a high level of onboard customization.
If you were to find a 50m (164ft) spec build that has already been under construction for two years, you could expect to take delivery in approximately 12-18 months whilst still having your say on the vessel's design and finish.
In summary, yacht speculation builds involve investing in the construction of yachts with the aim of selling them at a profit. These projects can be financially rewarding if the investor accurately anticipates market trends and the demands of potential buyers. However, they also entail risks and uncertainties, as success depends on timing, market conditions, and the ability to find buyers willing to pay a premium for a customized yacht.
