Boat Buying Guide for Summer 2026 – A Considered Approach to Ownership

Written by Eldin Basic, Yacht Charter Manager

Eldin is a well-known yacht charter broker, arranging private yachts for sailing holidays in all the main sailing destinations, with a specific expertise in long-term yacht charters and luxury yacht charters in particular.

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Welcome to Summer Season 2026. It is, by any measure, already underway. That’s at least the case for those who are seasoned sailors, keen yacht charterers or are considering buying a boat seriously at this stage. And, for those who plan in advance, it is well known that the most desirable yachts are not discovered in June. They are identified in March or April, negotiated by early May, and quietly secured by early June, or at least long before the season begins.

What I’m seeing now is a continued shift. Buyers are more informed, more lifestyle-driven, and increasingly drawn to yachts that deliver both experience and long-term value. At the same time, availability, particularly at the high-end, is becoming more selective. For those considering a purchase, this is not a market to rush, but it is one to approach with clarity and intent. And while you can become a boat owner from as little as 30,000 Eur, which is what a typical 30ft sailboat from the 1990s may cost by now or a smaller 20ft powerboat costs to acquire as a new one, it is in the higher-end of the market that truly spectacular deals, top value and best boats are on offer.

Catamarans – Space has become the ultimate luxury

Only a decade or so ago, monohulls were leading on all fronts. Over the past few seasons, catamarans have moved from practical alternatives to primary choices. And it’s easy to understand why. One of the best examples is the BALI 5.4, particularly on the pre-owned market, a boat that continues to resonate with buyers who value volume, flow, and immediate usability. It’s a yacht that prioritises how people live on board – open spaces, social areas, and being effortlessly connected to the sea. Not a sailing boat that genuine racing or even regular sailing public prefers, or is keen on, but when it comes to leisurely cruising, relaxing sailing and family time, no monohull can beat those types of boats for space, luxuries (think spacious en suites, a washing machine, Starlink, lots of water toys, even good downwind sailing speed with the help of a Code-0 sail, such as the East to West Atlantic Crossing) and BALI 5.4 is an exceptional platform for all. In fact, a European-based fleet manager recently noted that, “The BALI 5.4 is still the benchmark for volume and charter efficiency in the 50-plus foot category.” This means that, should you wish to own a boat, use it for your own family holidays, and also keep it in a managed fleet to recoup some of the ownership costs, this type of boat could be an ideal choice for many.

On the other hand, amongst the catamaran-loving public and for clients seeking something more individual, the Moon Yacht 60 (both sail and power) offers a noticeably different experience. These yachts feel more considered, more tailored, and, in many respects, closer to a compact superyacht than to a production multihull. Their unique style oozes luxury, designer looks and prestige. Sunreef has recently established itself as the No. 1 brand amongst luxury catamarans, yet the Gdansk-based Moon Yacht is giving them a run for their money with its exceptional designs, great value, and fabulous style. I have recently been inspired by a loving lady from the shipyard’s hometown and can vouch for the highest quality of both ladies, in particular, the Moon Yacht ships from that European region. In fact, a well-informed broker just recently stated, “The Moon 60 Sail delivers the elegance of a mini-superyacht with the footprint of a performance cat.’’ Mind you, a price point of 3 million Euros for a fully equipped model is not for everyone either.

Thus, the ball, in terms of multihulls is in your corner. These most popular boats don’t stay on the market long. What I often advise here is simple. If your priority is time on board – entertaining, family use, or charter, space and layout will define your ownership far more than headline performance, then catamarans are the ideal platform. One BALI 5.4 (2024) with full equipment is currently offered at a great discount, while similar boats are selling for 200k+. Alternatively, for buyers wanting motor yacht comfort with multihull efficiency, the Moon 60 Power offers exceptional fuel economy, wide-body comfort, and a clean, contemporary design. She is only slightly more expensive than a Moon 60 Sail catamaran but is equally impressive in her presence, styling, and luxury designer feel, evident in both the exceptional exterior and the amazing interior. In any case, the oldest catamarans can be found for well below 100,000 Eur, while the latest models can be found from below 300,000 Eur, for example, Aventura 37. At the same time, the cost for those who want to build new 150ft custom-built eco projects is probably closer to 30 million EUR, if not above that, with all added extras.

Looking ahead – The new BALI 7.0

The newly announced BALI 7.0 promises massive volumes and next-generation open-plan living. However, it may not be ready for the 2026 season.

Buyers needing a high-end luxury catamaran for next summer should consider:

• Sunreef 70

• New Lagoon Eighty 2

• Other 68-72ft multihulls with immediate availability, which may include proper sailing multihulls from brands such as Balance or comfortable cruisers from Sunreef, with a number of Sunreef 60s and 70s available for sale too.

  
  

One multihull specialist recently commented, “The BALI 7.0 will be a category disruptor, but early adopters may need to wait beyond 2026”. If you are keen on a luxury cruiser multihull with great value, BALI 7.0 could be your boating answer in the coming years.

Thus, whatever your budget, plans or desires, you will have to consider various multihulls as they are simply the boats of the decade. The choice here is somewhat intentional, yet if you have your own multihull idea that you wish to pursue, research, or buy, I am sure that similar advice can be provided for such considerations as well. Just recently, a client has bought a smaller 40ft catamaran for well below 400,000 EUR, while another is considering a superyacht amongst the multihulls, the new 100ft power catamaran, which I will mention briefly in the closing paragraph.

Motor yachts – Effortless, understated, proven

There is still something deeply appealing about a well-balanced motor yacht in the 40-45ft range. Models from successful UK brands such as the Sunseeker and Princess Yachts continue to offer exactly what many owners are looking for: clarity, usability, and confidence. No learning curve. No unnecessary complexity. Just the ability to step on board and go. By keeping it below 12 metres, many new yachtees can also enjoy a yachting lifestyle as their own ship commanders and family captains, allowing children to come and go, live freely and enjoy a newly gained status of yacht owners. For many of our clients, particularly those entering the market, this segment provides a natural and highly enjoyable starting point. Buying a bigger 50ft motorboat, such as a very stylish Galeon 520 Fly with her folding terraces and sliding side windows that link up, creating amazing outdoor spaces, is entering into a world of millionaires in most cases, although 30ft+ boats such as Saxdor models offer similar innovations at much lower price points. I will leave this be this time as such specific purchases require a different mindset, budget and discussions or advice. Brands from various shipyards fit this range as everywhere else, though, and a number of considerations must be given, not least the quality, power or value, before the final decision is made. As with catamarans, one can become a boat owner at well below 100,000 Euros, yet top quality models start at another price point.

One US broker recently commented. ‘’Wajer boats are for the super-rich or those who can show off, Wally, Vanquish or VanDutch for those who value style and top quality, while the rest is really a consideration of another kind.’’

Tenders & day boats – The rise of refined simplicity

Similar to 40ft power boats, this is another easy-entry market segment. Interestingly, some of the most elegant developments I’m seeing are in this relatively smallest category. The 25-30ft tender market has become a space for innovation. Cleaner design, better materials, faster speeds and a focus on simplicity done exceptionally well. These are boats designed for spontaneous use, for short escapes, for moments rather than itineraries. Many also double their use as superyacht tenders, and when you look at them, they are as desirable as the best mega yacht in Monaco’s Port Hercules. And increasingly, they are being chosen not as secondary assets, but as primary lifestyle pieces. I have certainly set my eye on one of those models with very difficult to remember names, and such shipyards may find it interesting to be represented by a keen boating enthusiast too. One such boat, the sublime SAY32, built out of carbon fibre (their SAY 50ft-er is a 2 million Euro boat!) and with top Genesis design, certainly speaks volumes, while established niche models such as Magazzù MX-14 are simply 'salivating'.

In fact, a well-known tender-specialist consultant recently stated, “The 25-30ft tender class has become a design playground where shipyards showcase their most innovative materials and tech.’’

This comment alone may make you reconsider and start dreaming about owning one of these super-stylish powerboats for day use.

Bespoke thinking – When standard isn’t the goal

Not many Brainz Magazine readers are ever going to be boat buyers for sure. And most buyers want what already exists. This is where a unique and fully bespoke boat comes to mind, for those that don’t. UPWIND-Catamaran.com is a 50ft aluminium catamaran that sits firmly in that space, custom, capable, and built with intent. It appeals to a different mindset entirely, one that values autonomy, long-range thinking, and individuality over convenience. Best of all, this type of boat falls outside the main manufacturer's specifications, allowing the owner to manage servicing and repairs in their own right and on bespoke schedules. The cost of running, servicing or maintaining such a boat is therefore much lower, at times maybe 50%+ less costly than a similar boat delivered by a known manufacturer such as 'Cata Lagoon', for example. The hull is also built from aluminium, which has in the meantime become very expensive, and as a long-lasting material, guarantees this type of boat will last decades longer than a similar production boat from major shipyards that use standard fibreglass or similar plastic-based materials. Upwind 50 boats as projects require more patience and more involvement, and are not standard specification boats, but if that’s what you as a boat owner, are looking at, it could be a perfect answer to own something entirely your own. In fact, a project manager of one shipyard recently said, ‘’An aluminium UPWIND 50 is the closest you get to a custom expedition catamaran in a compact footprint.” In any case, think twice about what you will buy, as where else can you find a 2022 custom-built aluminium catamaran for 750,000 EUR that can last decades, when a similar 2022-built GRP fibreglass catamaran from a main manufacturer cost at least 1 million EUR with similar equipment.

Entry model superyachts – Design is becoming personal

Despite the popularity of catamarans, many buyers and charter clients alike still prefer the monohull experience. The sailing monohulls are often chosen by those seeking a hands-on, authentic sailing experience at a tilt, or by families looking to continue long-standing traditions. Monohulls are also often more affordable to charter or buy than catamarans, providing comparable amenities and, in all-inclusive packages, the same high level of service and cuisine options.

That said, there seems to be a quiet evolution happening in the 70-80ft segment at the moment, an entry segment into the superyacht world. Yachts like the YUME, a YY72 model, are less about tradition and more about expression. Sculptural, lifestyle-led, and designed with owner operation in mind. They reflect a broader change, buyers want yachts that feel like an extension of how they live, not just how they travel and while 50ft was a good enough size 10 years ago, not so much anymore for some. At 72ft, this new charter yacht, which can be rented from 25,000 EUR per week this summer, is also a highly desirable boat for couples or smaller families who want to have a luxury boat with lots of space, but also small enough to be managed and skippered by themselves, without the need for additional crew. As a result, this category is becoming increasingly interesting, particularly for those who want something distinctive without stepping into much larger superyacht programmes, which may always require at least 2 more professionals on board. In the past and even more recently, such buyers were looking at 40ft, maybe 50ft boats. The demands, requirements, desires, and maybe budgets have increased, as, amongst monohulls at least, 70ft+ is the new owner-type of a sailing boat, the most desirable choice.

Legacy builders & high-value opportunities – A specific Feadship deal and the amazing SX88 opportunity

For pedigree-focused buyers, Northern European shipyards such as Lürssen, Amels or Feadship remain strongholds of craftsmanship and heritage. "Graycliffs" is, for example, an exceptional Feadship offering at this very moment. This stylish 110ft superyacht with an amazing Bannenberg & Rowell interior styling is offered for sale at 16.9 million US$, with a 1.5 million Euro discount. Available for viewing in Florida, she is the amazing superyacht offering that should not last long, even in the current, slow-moving, war-affected market. Similar types of mega yacht sales deals from 110-300ft and with other shipyards such as Amels, Lürssen or Sunseeker may also exist. At a slightly lower end, at the entry into the superyacht motor world, there are models such as the versatile Sanlorenzo SX88. This model continues to dominate the crossover yacht category, and one particularly compelling opportunity exists with a 2022 SX88 model, offered with a €1 million discount – a rare value proposition in the 27m segment. As an example, a new SX88, launching next year, would probably cost around €8.25+ million with full standard equipment, and this 2022 model, with less than 1000h on her fantastic engines, being almost half the price, makes her an exceptional offering for those with a suitable budget and keen to become new boat owners before the summer 2026 season starts. 

To put this into an even more focused perspective, one senior Italian broker recently stated, “The SX88 remains one of the most intelligently packaged yachts in its class. It’s a crossover that actually delivers”. I can only concur and suggest that those with a suitable budget get in touch to try to secure what could be the bargain of the year across all yachting lifestyle segments.

Final thoughts – 2026 rewards decisive buyers

From bespoke built Upwind 50s, to second-hand BALI 5.4s, both offering 150,000 EUR discount+, to luxury Moon Yachts, across to the sculptural YY72, to the discounted SX88 and sublime Feadship Graycliffs, the 2026 season offers standout opportunities across every category. The key is securing your survey window or build slot early, the best yachts will not linger. And if you can wait, a sublime MOON 100 power, available from 10,388 million EUR, with full equipment at around 14,5 million Euro+ will be launched in 2028. This imposing, almost spectacular superyacht multihull is likely to be the boat of the year when she enters the water in 24 months' time. You can now secure her with an amazing 20% discount, and that’s one deal not to be missed for those looking to acquire a boat for below 15 million Euros.

Will you decide to be a boat owner in 2026 or a boat buyer in 2028? It is entirely up to you and your budget or yachting lifestyle plans. As you may have read above, I can recommend several options for every pocket, bank account and budget, including those who may be keen to self-build a bespoke mega yacht project, such as the unique 118-metre Lürssen Breakthrough, which was recently commissioned for Bill Gates and purchased by another buyer for probably well above 500 million euros, apparently. A new build with a bespoke design can be secured at 80ft for well below 2 million euros. However, for any specific plans, you are well advised to carefully consider your next move. The first step in every buying process is to get in touch with your broker, decide on the type of boat and budget and look for the best deals. Final deals, negotiations or a memorandum of sale are only a 10th step in the process. In the case of a new build, a suitable team has to be identified, a shipyard selected, and plenty of time taken to make the right decision. And as the new build could be your only one ever, thus, new builds should be done right.

Whatever your choice, insight or desire, it’s clear that we all live on one planet, in one world and maybe soon with one world government and under a new world order. Whatever the future, you can still be the responsible future master of your destiny, trauma-free yacht owner or even the superhuman in your own right and without the need to LoveYourOwn.Life with someone else’s permission. Here at BrainzMagazine, travel and lifestyle, yachts and well-being are equally important, and priorities will clearly lie with each person at any given time. I wish you the best frame of mind as you make your own decision, whatever that is.

Visit my website for more info! Read more from Eldin Basic

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Eldin Basic, Yacht Charter Manager

Eldin is the Charter & Sales manager at A2A Yachting (SuperSailYachts.com), where he oversees all aspects of business & marketing operations. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Eldin brings a wealth of expertise and insight to this role.

He holds a degree from the University College Birmingham, supplemented by leadership training from Harvard Business School and ThePowerMBA, giving him a solid foundation in strategic management.

Known for his talent in developing innovative Blue Ocean Strategies, Eldin is also a certified breathwork practitioner & an active supporter of various charitable initiatives. Passionate about helping others, he is committed to turning dreams into reality & inspiring all to live more fulfilling lives.