If you manage to get your hands on a yacht like this, you've struck gold!

 Not all yachts are created equal. Some will depreciate faster than you can say “open water,” while others hold their value like a well-invested portfolio. If you’re in the market, knowing which ones fall into that “treasure” category can save you from regret—and even put money in your pocket down the line. A big part of that comes down to Boat Manufacturers with a track record of building yachts that stand the test of time. Let’s break down the classic models that are basically guaranteed to be a smart buy.

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Brands That Hold Their Value (and Then Some)​

When it comes to yachts, the brand name isn’t just about prestige—it’s about reliability. Names like Azimut and Ferretti have been around for decades, and their classic lines (think the Azimut 60 or Ferretti Yachts 850) are practically legends in the boating world. Why do they hold value? For starters, these Boat Manufacturers use modular designs, which means replacing parts is easier and cheaper than with one-off custom builds. They also have service networks spanning the globe, so no matter where you dock, you can find a technician who knows your yacht inside out. I’ve seen 5-year-old Azimuts sell for 70% of their original price, while a lesser-known brand’s yacht from the same year might only get 40%. It’s simple: buyers trust these brands to last, so they’re willing to pay more to own them.​

The “Goldilocks” Size: Not Too Big, Not Too Small​

You might think bigger is better, but when it comes to value retention, medium-sized yachts (between 24 and 30 meters) hit the sweet spot. They’re roomy enough for a family vacation—with 3 or 4 cabins, a decent kitchen, and space to relax—but not so massive that they cost a fortune to dock or maintain. Need to host a business meeting? The open salon area works perfectly. Want to take the kids out for a weekend? There’s enough storage for water toys and luggage. This versatility makes them hot commodities on the resale market—about 45% of all used yacht sales are in this size range. With steady demand, their prices stay stable, unlike larger yachts that can sit for months (or years) waiting for the right buyer. It’s the kind of “jack of all trades” appeal that keeps their value from plummeting.​

Engines That Keep Going (and Going)​

A yacht is only as good as its engine, and when it comes to resale value, reliability is everything. Stick with well-known engine brands like Volvo Penta or MTU—they’re industry standards for a reason. Yachts with these engines (especially those with full service records are like catnip to buyers. Even better if it has two engines instead of one. Dual engines are more fuel-efficient, less likely to leave you stranded if one fails, and they hold their value significantly better. I recently helped a client sell a 10-year-old yacht with twin MTUs, and it fetched 15% more than a similar model with a single engine. Why? Because buyers know they’ll spend less on repairs and have fewer headaches down the line. Always check the service log—if the previous owner skipped oil changes or ignored warning lights, even the best engine can lose its shine.​

At the end of the day, finding a yacht that holds its value is about balancing brand trust, practicality, and mechanical reliability. Stick to classic models from top Boat Manufacturers, aim for that 24-30 meter range, and make sure the engine has a clean bill of health. Do that, and you won’t just be buying a yacht—you’ll be investing in one. When the time comes to sell, you’ll be the one smiling, knowing you got a great deal and made money in the process. After all, some yachts are just meant to be treasures.