Buy a Yacht

Rapide is an independent brokerage with a client-first approach. We put your needs before our own, offering honest, unbiased advice and full access to the global market. Our deep technical expertise and hands-on experience allow us to guide you through every step of the process with clarity and precision. It all begins with a personal consultation to understand your goals, followed by a curated selection of yachts that match your specific program. From negotiation to inspection, contracts to delivery, we’re with you all the way.

It all starts with a conversation, so the first step is to pick up the phone and speak with one of our experts. We’ll help you set your budget and define your key requirements, such as size, performance, preferred cruising grounds, and any designers or builders you admire. Your Rapide broker will then curate a shortlist of the best yachts available both on and off the market that align with your goals. We’ll also provide detailed comparisons between brands and insights into individual yachts’ ownership profiles, helping you identify real value. It’s all in the details. From there, we’ll arrange viewings so you can step aboard your top choices and narrow down the right fit. When you’re ready to proceed, we’ll assist with negotiations and contract preparation. Once terms are agreed, sea trials and surveys are scheduled and completed to ensure the yacht meets expectations. From there, we move to acceptance, and you’ll receive expert advice on flagging and insurance while the Rapide team advises during final documentation and the closing process. At that point, the yacht is yours and it’s time to enjoy your new adventure.

The timeline for purchasing a pre-owned yacht typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks from offer to closing, but this can vary depending on several factors. These include the complexity of due diligence, survey results, financing, the seller’s timeline, and the buyer’s chosen flag state. International transactions involving foreign flags can offer advantages through entities registered in jurisdictions with favorable legal and tax environments. They may also broaden your insurance options by providing access to global markets and underwriters. However, they often require additional steps, which can extend the process by a couple of weeks. If you’re working to a specific deadline, let your Rapide broker know early, and we’ll tailor the process to align with your timeline and navigate any complexities on your behalf.

To complete a sea trial, you’ll typically need the following:

1. An Accepted Offer
   Most sellers will only approve a sea trial after a written offer is accepted and a deposit is placed in escrow. The offer will include a contingency for the sea trial and survey.

2. Signed Purchase Agreement
   A binding agreement outlining the terms, timelines, and contingencies, protecting both buyer and seller throughout the process.

3. Deposit in Escrow
   A standard 10% deposit is held in ESCROW during the trial and survey period. It remains fully refundable if you reject the vessel in writing before the acceptance deadline.