Yachting may be an expensive hobby, making it unaffordable for most people to own a yacht outright.
The large upfront fees deter many people, but there might be a way to simplify the procedure. Boats that you can rent with the option to buy them later on at a more affordable price can give you the best of both worlds.
So how does the rent-to-own yacht schemes usually work? Here is what you should know.
What is a “rent to own” boat?
Boats that you can rent for a set amount of time with the intention of buying them at the conclusion of the contract are known as rent to own boats. Boats can be rented to own in a similar way as homes, vehicles, or appliances.
Although the concept is straightforward, your unique contract will determine how it applies to you. If you’re considering making this purchase, you’d be wise to carefully study the fine print. Your agreement may require you to make a preliminary down payment. After that, throughout the duration of your contract, you will continue to make extra payments at regular monthly or quarterly intervals.
You will have the choice to buy the remaining portions of the boat and have the title transferred to you when the contract expires. In some circumstances, you will be required to purchase the yacht later, and there can be consequences if you decide to back out. The yacht will be yours to purchase at a depreciated value price, which is wonderful news.
What are the pros and cons of leasing yachts?
Pros:
- You can avoid paying a big lump sum to buy a yacht directly
- You can enjoy a new yacht at a reasonable monthly cost
- For first-time boaters who aren’t sure if the boating lifestyle is really for them or which boat would suit their needs the best, leasing a boat is a wise decision.
- No ongoing maintenance tasks, if you select a management company that takes care of the monthly repairs and maintenance so you can enjoy your boat safely.
Cons:
- In the long run, owning a yacht through leasing can cost more money even though your initial outlay is much smaller, just like with a car. The value of the yacht you are leasing depreciate with time, but your monthly installments might not.
- Leasing a boat will prevent you from experiencing true ownership until the end of the contract.
- Numerous fleets of yachts on lease have poor maintenance. Be careful when you choose your management company.
What are the boats and yachts you can rent to own?
Almost all sorts of boats can have rent-to-own agreements.
Do you want to go fishing all day? There are plenty of rent to own and leasing programs available for fishing boats.
Are you a wakeboarding fan? You can easily find a wakeboard boat on a rent-to-own program.
When it comes to luxury yachts, numerous sailboats, catamarans and motoryachts can be acquired through rent-to-own leasing programs.
Owning a yacht restricts you to the uses that one particular boat is intended for, but if you have the means, you can lease several boats at the same time. There are so many various ways to enjoy yachting when you have options to choose from.
Rent to own yachts is the ideal way to enjoy a vacation aboard, with one more twist: the option to buy the yacht if you like it.
Can you get a loan to lease a yacht?
Yes, it is possible to get a loan to lease a yacht only if you want to buy the yacht at the end of the lease contract.
Read also: Buying a Yacht : The Frequently Asked Question
Are there any dangers to be aware of with leasing boats?
Not all rent-to-own boats programs and companies are created equal. Since you are going to rent a yacht on the long term, and potentially buy it at the end of the term, you really need to be careful with who you are dealing with.
Always Trust a Reputed Boat Lease Company
Professionals from boat rental firms are available to help you make decisions. Check the reviews to see how their prior customers felt about the service. A trustworthy rent-to-own yacht company prioritizes customer satisfaction because they have a reputation to uphold.
Reputable boat rental firms typically keep up with maintenance-related issues. As a result, you won’t have to worry about having to end your day in the water.
Understand the Local Laws Related to Boat Leasing
It is very important to understand and follow the local laws pertaining to boat leasing. Before sending you out on your trip, the company will, in the majority of situations, discuss the legal aspects.
Every region has its laws and regulations. So, it’s important to know if you qualify for a rent-to-own agreement or not. Before you may lease a boat, you must be properly licensed.
Information about the local rules advises you just what to anticipate before leasing a boat. To prevent conflict with the authorities while on a yacht vacation, become familiar with the dos and don’ts.
Conduct a Thorough Inspection of the Boat Before Taking it on Lease
If you are leasing a yacht on the longer term with the option to buy it, you don’t want to pick the wrong one. It is very important to conduct a thorough inspection of your yacht before leasing it. You might even want to be with an experienced sailor or a third party before committing to anything.
The advantages of looking over a boat before taking it on lease are numerous:
- Ensuring that all vessel safety requirements are met.
- Make a note of faulty equipment to reduce liability at the end of the lease agreement.
- Negociate the rent-to-own agreement according to the real state of the vessel to ensure you are not overpaying
Know the Terms of the Rent-to-own agreement
Before signing a rent-to-own agreement, make sure you comprehend everything completely. Pay attention to every clause before signing because boat lease agreements are legally binding. Consider asking for help if there is a fine print you are uncertain about.
The terms relating to liability are one aspect of the contract. By signing, you agree to accept responsibility for any damage the vessel sustains while in your care or control. Examine potential damage and any associated expenses you might face.
What does rent to own boat contract look like?
A rent to own boat contract contains information about the boat (model, registration details, size, capacity, and other important details), the owner, and the tenant (the person who is taking the boat on lease).
The duration of the lease is always mentioned, along with the financial requirements of the lease. The option to purchase the yacht at the end of the agreement is always clearly stated.
Apart from all this information, it also contains details about the boat’s insurance, security deposit amount, responsibility or usage guidelines, warranties, condition of the vessel, landlord’s and tenant’s liabilities, and other counterparts.
Each lease contract is unique, so make sure you have a professional advisor with your best interests at heart if you are not a specialist.
The best alternatives to rent to own yachts and leasing
Fractional Yacht Ownership: The Pros of Owning a Yachts Minus the Cost
Fractional boat ownership allows you to own a part of a yacht for usage time on board. You legally own a portion of it as an asset. Furthermore, you can sell or transfer it just like you can with stock or bonds. For a very long time, people have shared boats in informal relationships with friends or family. Simply formalizing these agreements to give you extra legal protection in the event of disputes is fractional boat ownership.
Read aslo: Fractionnal yacht ownership : everythings you need to know
Yacht Charter: Lease on the Shorter Term Only
If you intend to go on a true sailing expedition for at least a week or more, chartering a boat can be a more viable option. You may go wherever your heart desires, set your own schedule, and never have to stand in line, making it nearly like taking a cruise!
Of course, when you charter a yacht, you don’t have the option to buy it at the end, unless the owner is willing to sell it, but that would be pure luck.
Owning a Yacht without Leasing it First
Owning a yacht is something people aim towards.
Although owning a boat is risky and often costly, there is something thrilling about having such a magnificent work of engineering and art. Contrary to what many financial experts advise those who wish to acquire a boat, financing a purchase is not always that hard.
The key to obtain incredibly kind loan conditions is to speak with an experienced maritime finance specialist.
Conclusion
Lease-to-own boat programs have some pros and cons.
Like every contract you make, you need to be extra careful and read all the fine lines to make sure you are leasing a yacht that you really want to buy later, and at the right price.
Being a bit heedful will ensure that you enjoy your time aboard a boat while on vacation, and who know, maybe become a yacht owner in the process.
