
If you're in the market for a yacht, or looking to sell one, yacht transport and delivery services are a crucial consideration. Yachts can be transported via various methods, including shipping and air freight.
Shipping is the most common method, with yachts typically loaded onto a ship or barge and transported to their destination. This method is often less expensive than air freight, but can take longer.
Shipping companies use specialized equipment and trained personnel to ensure safe transport. They also provide insurance coverage for the yacht during transport.
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Choosing a Shipping Method
Choosing a shipping method for your yacht can be a daunting task, but understanding your options can make the process much smoother. The two primary options available are yacht shipping via cargo ship or yacht delivery by a professional yacht transport company.
Cargo ships are commonly used for long-distance transport and offer secure and reliable transport, but are generally slower and require adherence to shipping schedules. On the other hand, yacht delivery services provide more flexibility, allowing you to sail your yacht directly to the desired destination.
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The type of transport method you choose will depend on factors such as distance, time constraints, and budget. For example, if you're looking to transport your yacht over a short distance, a yacht delivery service may be the better option.
Here are some common yacht transport methods:
- Roll on/off: The yacht is towed onto a cradle on the vessel or trailer that will then be parked on the deck.
- Flat rack: The yacht is lifted using a crane or forklift onto the cradle of the flat rack.
- Lift on/off: The yacht is lifted to a cradle on the vessel using lifting slings and divers.
- Float on/off: The deck must install keelblocks and supports to attach the yacht to, and the vessel will then submerge itself for easy loading.
Researching and Selecting Services
Choosing a reputable yacht transport service is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free shipping experience. Research different companies and their track records in the industry.
Look for providers with experience in transporting yachts similar in size and type to yours. Check customer reviews, ask for references, and inquire about insurance coverage. It’s also essential to verify their licenses, certifications, and compliance with international shipping regulations.
Factors such as distance, time constraints, and budget will influence your decision when choosing between yacht shipping via cargo ship or yacht delivery by a professional yacht transport company. Cargo ships are commonly used for long-distance transport.
Select a company that not only offers competitive pricing but also provides reliable communication, excellent customer service, and a proven track record of safe and efficient yacht transport. Ultimately, you want someone with a strong reputation, expertise, and the equipment to deal with every aspect of the delivery.
Delivering by Sea
Delivering a yacht by sea is a popular option, especially for those who want to take the most efficient route. It's also a natural way to transport a yacht, as it allows the vessel to move freely.
There are two main methods of delivering a yacht by sea: using a yacht transport ship or using the yacht itself. The first option is ideal for those who want to keep their yacht pristine, as it takes away the majority of the work and reduces the risk of wear and tear.
Using a yacht transport ship is a great option for yachts between 35 and 250 feet long, offering delivery options across the world. However, it can be challenging to find a ship for yachts over 150 feet.
Using the yacht itself is another option, which can be referred to as launching or keel on water. This method allows the owner to ensure everything is in complete working order and can be a great way to have one last voyage before parting ways with the yacht.
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There are three ways to deliver a yacht using the yacht itself: skippered, bareboat, and crewed. Skippered is a good option for inexperienced yacht owners, as it involves a captain and first mate to help throughout the journey. Bareboat is more suitable for experienced sailors, who will be fully responsible for providing their own crew. Crewed is a hassle-free method, where a professional crew takes care of everything on board the vessel throughout the journey.
Here are the key differences between these three options:
How to
If you're planning to transport your yacht, there are several methods to consider. The most common method is roll on/off, where the yacht is towed onto a cradle on the vessel or trailer.
To determine the best method for your yacht, consider its size and mobility. Larger yachts may require a flat rack or lift on/off method, while superyachts are often best transported via float on/off.

If you're looking for a more land-based option, trailer transport is a popular choice for larger yachts. This method involves loading the yacht onto a specially designed trailer that's supported by cradles to keep it secure during transport.
Trailer transport is a good option if you're concerned about damage to your yacht. The trailer is designed to minimize the risk of damage, and the yacht is held in place by cradles.
Here are some key differences between trailer transport and truck transport:
Regardless of the method you choose, make sure the shipping company has the correct insurance in place to cover any loss or damage during transport.
Preparing for Shipping
Preparing for shipping a yacht requires careful planning and preparation. Thorough cleaning and inspection of the vessel is essential to ensure its safety and minimize potential damage.
Before shipping, conduct a comprehensive cleaning to remove dirt, debris, and marine growth. Inspect the hull, engine, and other critical components, documenting any existing issues or damages and taking detailed photographs for insurance purposes.
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Secure all loose items on board, including removing personal belongings, such as furniture, decorations, and equipment. Store them safely onshore or in designated storage areas to avoid shifting or potential loss during transport.
Consult with a professional yacht transport company to understand their specific requirements, including guidelines on reducing the height of antennas, removing sails, and securing rigging. Take necessary precautions to protect fragile components, such as wrapping them securely or using protective covers.
Disable or secure sensitive equipment to avoid damage from motion-induced vibrations. Plan to hire your yacht carrier and confirm pickup and drop-off dates at least two weeks in advance.
Here are some key steps to prepare your yacht for shipping:
- Thorough cleaning and inspection
- Securing loose items and removing personal belongings
- Consulting with a professional yacht transport company
- Planning and confirming pickup and drop-off dates
By following these preparation steps, you can ensure that your yacht is well-prepared for transport, reducing the chances of any mishaps during the shipping process.
Shipping Costs and Services
Shipping costs for a yacht can vary significantly, with prices ranging from $20 to $25 per nautical mile for transport via cargo ship. This can add up quickly, with a 40-foot yacht traveling from Florida to the Mediterranean costing around $90,000 to $112,500.
Additional expenses to consider include fuel, insurance, permits, and customs fees. It's essential to factor these costs into your overall budget to avoid any surprises.
To get a better understanding of the costs involved, it's a good idea to request detailed quotes from multiple transport providers. This will allow you to compare prices and services, ensuring you find the best option for your needs.
Here are some key factors that can impact the cost of shipping a yacht:
- Size of the yacht
- Distance it's moving
- Destination
- Seasonality
- Reputation and relationship with carrier
- Services needed for a safe shipment and delivery
Keep in mind that yacht transport costs can vary depending on these factors, so it's crucial to consider them when planning your shipment.
Shipping Costs
Shipping costs can vary significantly depending on the distance and destination of your yacht. For example, transporting a 40-foot yacht from Florida to the Mediterranean, covering approximately 4,500 nautical miles, can cost around $90,000 to $112,500.
The cost of shipping a yacht can also depend on the vessel size and transport method. On average, yacht transport via cargo ship can cost between $20 and $25 per nautical mile. This means that a longer haul will cost more, with some estimates reaching up to $1,000 for longer distances and $500 for shorter distances.
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There are several factors that can impact the final pricing of yacht transport, including the size of the yacht, distance it's moving, destination, seasonality, reputation and relationship with the carrier, and services needed for a safe shipment and delivery. To get a better idea of what your yacht transport may cost, it's a good idea to request detailed quotes from multiple transport providers.
Here are some key factors to consider when calculating yacht transport costs:
- Size of the yacht
- Distance it's moving
- Destination
- Seasonality
- Reputation and relationship with carrier
- Services needed for a safe shipment and delivery
What Shipping Company Services Should Be Provided
A shipping company should provide insurance that deals with any loss or damage throughout the journey. This is crucial when handling something of great value like a yacht.
They should also offer a tracking service, so you can see the progression of the delivery. This keeps you informed and in control of the process.
A reputable shipping company should have a team of experienced technicians and engineers who can deal with yacht maintenance and repairs. This ensures your yacht arrives in the same condition it was in before shipping.
Handling logistics is a complex process, and a good shipping company should be able to produce a thorough plan of how they'll deliver your yacht. They should also be aware of any obstacles they might encounter.
One of the most important things to check is that the company has the correct licenses to deal with yacht deliveries. Don't just take their word for it – cross-check their licenses before proceeding.
Shipping Options and Methods
Shipping options for yachts are varied and depend on several factors, including size, mobility, and distance. There are two primary options available: yacht shipping via cargo ship or yacht delivery by a professional yacht transport company.
For long-distance transport, cargo ships are commonly used, offering secure and reliable transport. However, they can be slower and require adherence to shipping schedules. On the other hand, yacht delivery services provide more flexibility, allowing you to sail your yacht directly to the desired destination.
The choice between cargo ships and yacht delivery services depends on factors such as distance, time constraints, and budget. Here are some common yacht transport methods:
- Roll on/off: The most common method, where the yacht is towed onto a cradle on the vessel or trailer.
- Flat rack: Suitable for larger yachts that can still be moved by road to the port, where the yacht is lifted using a crane or forklift onto the cradle of the flat rack.
- Lift on/off: For larger yachts that can't be moved via road to port, where lifting slings from the transport vessel grab the yacht from a parked location alongside the vessel.
- Float on/off: The best option for larger yachts or superyachts, where the deck installs keelblocks and supports to attach the yacht to, and the vessel submerges itself for easy loading.
These methods can be used for both domestic and international yacht transport.
Delivering Via Land
Delivering a yacht via land can be a viable option, especially when there's a large landmass between two points, making it faster than sailing around it. This method can also reduce the risk of damage to the yacht during transport.
For smaller yachts, trailer transport is a common method, where the boat is carefully loaded onto a trailer designed for large yachts. The trailer is equipped with cradles to keep the boat secure throughout the journey.
Truck transport is another option for smaller yachts and catamarans, where the boat is loaded into the back of a large truck or on a flatbed and delivered to its destination. It's held in place similarly to trailer transport, but without the need for a trailer.
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Here are some key differences between trailer and truck transport:
While trailer transport is often preferred for larger yachts, it's essential to consider the logistics and planning required for such a transport.
Standard Methods for International Shipping
Shipping a yacht internationally can be a complex process, but understanding the standard methods can help you make an informed decision.
There are two primary options available for shipping a yacht: yacht shipping via cargo ship or yacht delivery by a professional yacht transport company. Cargo ships are commonly used for long-distance transport, while yacht delivery services are preferred for shorter distances.
Factors such as distance, time constraints, and budget will influence your decision. For example, if you're shipping a yacht across the ocean, a cargo ship might be the most suitable option. However, if you're shipping a yacht within a region, a yacht delivery service could be a better choice.
Here are the standard methods for international shipping:
Keep in mind that the planning process can be a little arduous if you decide to ship your yacht yourself. However, using a yacht transport ship can guarantee that wear and tear does not occur during the delivery process, making it a hassle-free option for some yacht owners.
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Uship and Shipping
Uship is a great resource for finding reliable yacht transport companies and getting the best shipping quotes. You can create a shipment listing detailing your yacht and specific shipping needs, and then receive quotes from service providers who specialize in transporting yachts.
The uShip marketplace is specifically designed to help you find the best yacht transport companies at their best shipping rates. This can save you a lot of time and stress compared to searching for transport companies on your own.
To find the right transport company, you can review their carrier profiles and talk to them directly to ensure you're working with the best. This can give you peace of mind knowing your yacht is in good hands.
There are several types of yacht transport available on uShip, including overland transport, deck cargo, container shipment, and semi-submersible ships. Each of these options has its own benefits and requirements.
Here are some key details about each type of transport:
This information can help you decide which type of transport is best for your yacht and your specific needs.
Scheduling and Assistance
Shipping multiple yachts together can significantly reduce costs.
To comply with laws, non-US flag carriers often load or discharge in Canada, the Bahamas, or Mexico instead of US ports.
Container shipping offers complete flexibility with respect to ports and timing.
Bespoke Solutions
At Peters & May, we pride ourselves in providing bespoke boat transport solutions that are tailored to each customer's unique needs. This means that every project is different and based on individual requirements.
Our teams work hard to provide fair pricing for customers by discussing costings of various routes and options with them. We weigh up each option to ensure we provide solutions that fit both your shipping needs and your budget.
Each shipment is unique, and our experts build the pricing into the project based on the customer's specific needs. This approach can sometimes be associated with higher costs, but we strive to provide fair and competitive pricing.
By working closely with clients, we can provide solutions that are tailored to their shipping needs and budget. This collaborative approach ensures that our customers receive the best possible service.
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Scheduling

Scheduling can be a challenge when shipping yachts, but there are ways to make it more efficient. Most ships are non-US flag carriers, which means they're forbidden by law to transport cargoes between US ports.
To comply with the law, ships often load or discharge in Canada, the Bahamas, or Mexico. This can add complexity to the scheduling process.
Container shipping offers a flexible solution, allowing for complete flexibility with respect to ports and timing.
Need Shipment Assistance?
Simpson Marine is one of the world's leading yacht brokers.
They have multiple offices all over the globe, giving them a deep understanding of the yachting world.
If you need assistance with the delivery of your yacht, they're here to help.
Contact them today to see how they can assist you with getting your yacht where you want it.
Pre-Delivery Vessel Preparations
Pre-delivery vessel preparations are a crucial step in ensuring a smooth yacht transport process. It's essential to hire a reliable team that knows what they're doing to avoid any mishaps.
Plan to hire your yacht carrier and confirm pickup and drop-off dates at least two weeks in advance. This allows for enough time to prepare your yacht for shipment.
A good pre-delivery service should provide thorough inspections of the yacht, testing and maintenance of all onboard systems, and help with the loading, unloading, and shipment of the yacht. They should also oversee construction and repairs of the yacht if needed.
To prepare your yacht for transport, you'll need to secure any loose items and take precautions to avoid travel damage. Consult your preferred marina or boat yard for specific questions on how to prepare your boat for transport.
A good pre-delivery service will also take care of any necessary immigration papers for the crew, fully clean down the interior and polish the exterior, and inform and train the new crew so they're aware of how to operate everything onboard the yacht.
Here are some key tasks to consider:
- Oversee construction and repairs of the yacht
- Thoroughly inspect the yacht
- Test and maintain all onboard systems
- Help with loading, unloading, and shipment of the yacht
- Cross-check insurance of the delivery company
- Ensure the yacht is fully legal and can enter its new destination
- Take care of immigration papers for the crew
- Close and lock all doors and cabinets, and secure everything throughout the boat
- Drain the water and fuel tanks appropriately
- Secure the engines
- Take a stock check of everything onboard the yacht and ensure all keys are there
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I transfer a yacht?
There are two primary methods to transfer a yacht: the FoFo (float on, float off) approach, ideal for larger vessels, and the RoRo (roll on/roll off) option, suitable for smaller yachts.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yacht_transport
- https://www.windward-islands.net/blog/how-to-ship-yacht-cost-transport/
- https://www.petersandmay.com/guide/yacht-shipping-pricing/
- https://www.uship.com/yacht-shipping/
- https://www.simpsonmarine.com/blog/yacht-transport-shipping-and-delivery-options-for-buyers-and-sellers/
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