If you’re thinking of buying a power boat in the UK, then there’s a few things to consider before committing to the purchase. Whether that be the age of the boat, engine type, brand and the running costs after buying the vessel, prices for a motor boat can vary from £15,000 right up to £700,000.
In this sailor’s guide, we outline exactly what a power boat is, factors that can influence the purchase cost, running costs and where you can buy a motor boat in the UK.
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Contents:
- What is a power boat?
- Factors that influence the purchase price of a power boat
- Running costs
- Where to buy a power boat?
How much does a power boat cost – quick summary
Buying a power boat in the UK involves considering factors such as boat type, engine, brand, and running costs. Power boats are completely engine-powered and can have inboard, outboard, or inboard-outboard engines. The initial purchase price is influenced by factors like manufacturer, model, age, location, demand and size of the boat. Ongoing costs may include maintenance, insurance, mooring, and fuel. If you find yourself asking questions such as ‘How much do boats cost?’ or ‘What are the main motor boat running costs?’ then you have come to the right place.
What is a powerboat?
A power boat, speed boat or motor boat is a boat that is completely powered by an engine rather than sails.
Some power boats are fitted with inboard engines, whereas others have an outboard motor installed on the rear, containing the internal combustion engine, the gearbox and the propeller in one portable unit.
An inboard-outboard engine contains a hybrid mix of an inboard and an outboard, where the internal combustion engine is installed inside the boat, and the gearbox and propeller are on the exterior of the boat.
Factors that influence the purchase price of a power boat
As with everything sailors buy, motor boats are no different in that they can vary greatly in price.
Manufacturer and model
Motor and power boats from leading brands such as Bavaria and Regal are always in demand and with newly released models each year, prices can go up and down depending on what brand and model you choose to buy. Speed boats from industry-leading manufacturers like Greenline can fetch anything up to £700,000 brand-new, whereas a used motorboat from a lesser-known brand such as Nimbus can be as little as £20,000 so the purchase price can hugely differ depending on what manufacturer you choose to go with.
Age and size of the motorboat
Another factor that can influence the cost of a power boat is the age and size of the vessel. Typically, new boats fetch a higher value than their used counterparts simply due to the age of the vessel, so you’ll need to consider whether you’re desperate to buy a new or used boat.
In addition to the age and condition of the speed boat, the size of it can influence the cost too. A smaller boat like the Regal 33 Express will typically cost less compared to a larger vessel such as the Bavaria R55 Fly. The size of a deck, how many cabins there are on-board, the living space and other features on the boat can push the price up as these tend to be more desirable among boat owners.
Location and demand
Some power boats are more expensive in certain locations across the globe because of mooring costs, the desirability to store and buy boats in certain marinas and sometimes the exchange rate. For example, those in the UK will be paying an average global rate for power boats, whereas those in the south of France will be buying their boat at a premium.
Some brands and models are always in demand due to their versatility, quality and affordability – such as those produced by Bavaria. New models can sell out quite fast and when re-listed on the market as second-hand, there’s always a waiting list to purchase them at a cut price.
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Running costs
Whilst the purchase price of a power boat is a one-off payment, there are ongoing costs to keep your vessel in tip-top shape. As a ball-park figure, it can cost 5% – 10% of the boat’s total value each year to maintain, store, insure and run.
Typical boat maintenance costs
- Insurance
- Mooring costs
- Maintenance costs of the boat, equipment and engine
- Fuel and other expenses
- Travel costs
- Wintering and dry dock
- Surveys
- Extras and contingencies
- Paying a fixed monthly fee
Where to buy a power boat?
Here at Clipper Marine boat brokerage, we have sales offices across the UK and Spain so you’re never far from purchasing your dream power boat. The team here at Clipper Marine can help find the perfect motor boat for your exact requirements, whether that be from a prestigious brand like Bavaria and Regal, we have stock of speed boats across the UK and Spain.
If you’re considering buying a new or used boat, speak to one of our brokers who can help further.
