Democratization of Sailing: A New Era for Leisure Navigation

The Emergence of New Luxury Catamaran Owners

Sailboats and the sea have long symbolized dreams and freedom for many. However, their accessibility has traditionally been limited, with comfort often being a significant compromise. In the 1980s, leisure sailboats were predominantly monohulls, while catamarans were either experimental or reserved for racing. These monohulls offered interiors that were often dark, damp, and furnished with rudimentary berths. Modern amenities such as air conditioning, water makers, large refrigerators, and LED lighting were absent. Navigators had to master nautical charts, calculate magnetic deviation, navigate by sight, and use coastal landmarks for positioning. Sailing was a demanding sport that combined pleasure with minimal comfort. Despite this, such vessels continue to attract many sailing enthusiasts for obvious reasons.

The Tool for Democratizing Sailing

The 2000s marked a significant turning point in the democratization of sailing. I had the privilege of witnessing this evolution up close. In 2008, as a co-owner of a small sailboat rental company on Lake Champlain, we managed a fleet of about twenty sailboats, ranging from 27 to 40 feet. While the rental model worked well, it had limitations in terms of expansion. Having sailed in the Bahamas with my wife on our Endeavour 32 in the late 1990s, I was familiar with the Exumas. This dream sailing destination posed significant challenges for adventurers due to many navigation hazards, the absence of detailed charts and the absence of rental companies. In 2011, everything changed for us. We established a bareboat rental base in the Exumas. Within a few years, we expanded from 4 to 40 boats, all fully booked. Why?

Between 2002 and 2008, the arrival of GPS chart plotters revolutionized navigation. These tools enabled sailors to determine their position with an accuracy of less than 3 feet, making navigation easier even for those with limited sailing knowledge. This technological revolution and advancements in navigation instruments such as depth sounders, anemometers, and autopilots made sailing accessible to a broader audience. An introductory 5-day course from CYA or ASA was sufficient to set out on an adventure.

Catamarans

Simultaneously, the introduction of catamarans into charter fleets transformed the market. French boat yards such as Lagoon and Jeanneau rapidly developed new catamaran models. These spacious vessels, offering enhanced stability and bright interiors, quickly gained popularity.

By 2012, catamarans represented over 85% of the sailboats in charter fleets. This success was further amplified by the arrival of a wealthier clientele, who could now enjoy sailing with significantly improved comfort.

A New Clientele Seeking Experiences

Another trend emerged in the second decade of the 2000s: a growing emphasis on life experiences. The individuals in question are accomplished professionals, senior executives, or successful entrepreneurs. Although wealthy, this group seeks to optimize their spending by investing in diverse life experiences rather than just accumulating material possessions.

Today, these individuals are searching for multiple experiences: a primary residence, a mountain chalet, a seaside condo, and global travel. Luxury catamarans ranging from 60 to 85 feet perfectly meet these desires. The option to explore the world aboard a luxurious catamaran with a crew has become highly attractive. However, the acquisition costs for such vessels range from $2,500,000 to $10,000,000, with annual expenses for maintenance, depreciation, docking, crew, and insurance representing approximately 10-15% of the acquisition cost.

Financial Optimization and Rental

To make this acquisition more rational and financially viable, many owners choose to rent out their catamarans when not in use. A 65-foot catamaran with a crew generally rents for around $65,000 per week. Ten weeks of rental per year can cover operational costs, and with 20 weeks, depreciation and loan interest can also be covered. Thus, an owner who uses their boat for two months annually can achieve a near-zero usage cost, based on historical data from the past 15 years.

All around the world, many good catamaran management companies handle crew, maintenance, and rental, charging a commission of around 25% of rental income. This financial arrangement allows for the deduction of maintenance costs from rental income and significant tax benefits, particularly in the U.S., thanks to a government program for accelerated depreciation of commercially operated catamarans.

Contact us

If this profile matches your interests, please get in touch with us for more information. We specialize in selling Lagoon catamarans ranging from 55 to 82 feet and are the global leader in this market. Lagoon offers customization options to meet each client’s specific requirements. In a forthcoming article, we will introduce the new Lagoon 82 (L82), promising an uncompromising luxury experience.

We have the expertise and contacts needed to assist you in acquiring your dream catamaran and work with rental agencies to ensure the optimal management of your investment.

By Yanik Aube, long time sailor

and co-owner of Aube Corbeil Marine