In a sea of choices in the superyacht market, superyacht brokerage firm Camper & Nicholsons has noticed rising popularity in the 40- to 50-metre size range amongst prospective buyers. BOAT International spoke to Benjamin Bensahel, head of sales at Camper & Nicholsons, to explore what is driving this increasing demand and some of the compelling advantages of owning a yacht in this size bracket.
Simplified ownership
Yachts in this size range are typically below 500GT, which comes with a wealth of advantages that enhance the yachting experience for owners and crew. This includes more flexible crew qualifications, where RYA certifications can be used, providing owners access to a broader range of skilled crew options. Additionally, these yachts require fewer certificates to maintain, typically seven, as opposed to 13 for yachts exceeding 500GT. This reduction in administrative burden allows the captain and crew to dedicate more time to serving guests and managing crew affairs. Beyond administrative benefits, these yachts boast lower fuel consumption, crew costs and berthing fees. All this makes this yacht category an ideal choice for owners seeking commercial use.
Charter opportunities
For owners considering commercial use, this size bracket is a magnet for charterers and a cost-effective option for owners. Bensahel highlights: "Among our fleet, this size bracket consistently attracts the highest number of charter requests. And for the charter price in this size range, the owner can truly offset their operational costs."
More for your money
While the firm has witnessed a notable surge in demand for this category, Bensahel suggests that the reasoning behind this trend may be due to the current price in the market, with yachts in this size bracket "typically ranging from €10-15 million, and €25-30 million for the newer models". Bensahel goes on to explain that this size range certainly does not compromise onboard amenities: "You're not going to have the space you have on a 60-metre, but you still can manage to have all the main features, including a beach club, gym, full-beam master suite on the main deck and a spacious saloon."
Greater marina accessibility
Larger superyachts often face limitations when it comes to docking in marinas. "If you want to slip into Saint-Tropez, for example, and be right in front of the big restaurants, you need to be below 50 metres," Bensahel explains. "So, there's an assurance of owning a yacht in this size bracket that you can fit in most ports in the Mediterranean and in the Caribbean."
Enhanced onboard service
With smaller crew requirements, Bensahel notes, "Having a large number of crew on board makes the boat feel a bit like a corporation. When the yacht is below 50 metres, there are generally fewer crew members, which makes the service on board feel a little more relaxed and personal."
Anchoring flexibility on the French Riviera
In response to the anchoring regulations in the South of France, owning a yacht in the 40- to 50-metre range grants you the flexibility to anchor closer to the shore.
Explore the selection: Camper & Nicholsons' 40-50M portfolio
Camper & Nicholsons has a remarkable selection of yachts currently on the market in the 40- to 50-metre size bracket. Offering a diverse range of features and capabilities, these yachts cater to various preferences and needs of prospective owners.
Only Eighty
Built in 2013 by CRN, the 43-metre Only Eighty is a GRP yacht. Notable features include a spacious sundeck, expansive interior spaces and a main-deck master cabin complete with its own private balcony – a rare feature on a yacht of this size and age.
Van Tom
Crafted by Heesen, Van Tom is a remarkable 49.8-metre aluminium vessel celebrated for her exhilarating top speed of 23 knots. Only ever used privately, this yacht has been thoughtfully designed to meet charter standards, rendering it a compelling choice for owners seeking to capitalise on its commercial potential. Van Tom has now sold just weeks after entering the sales market.
Moka
The iconic 49.9-metre Mangusta 165, Moka, was delivered in 2011. With its sporty lines, expansive outdoor spaces and barbecue setup, she is the perfect yacht for an outdoor-loving, adventurous owner. Notably, this vessel boasts an astonishing top speed of 38 knots, ensuring swift and thrilling journeys on the water.
Comprehensive yacht ownership support
Camper & Nicholsons operates as a full-service agency, addressing all aspects of yacht ownership needs. Bensahel says: "We are a one-stop-shop able to guide the client throughout the entire buying process, from when they're looking for a boat right through the purchase, and even beyond the sale in charter management and yacht management."
For more information about Camper & Nicholsons' full-service brokerage offerings, or to find out more about the aforementioned yachts for sale, contact the team at Camper & Nicholsons today.
Sponsored content created for Camper & Nicholsons