Docking costs

Can get expensive depending on your location

Docking costs typically range from $65 to $100 per month, depending on boat length, dock type, and location. You can reduce docking costs by 80% — we'll show you how in our docking cost guide.

Maintenance costs

It costs less if you keep up

Maintenance will roughly cost 10% of the purchase value of the boat, if it's new or a well-maintained second-hand.

In practice, this will roughly be between $250 - $1,000 per month, depending on the boat size.

This rule of thumb doesn't apply to project boats bought at a fraction of the cost.

Regular maintenance

Rigging and sails

Engine

Accessories

Transporting your boat

The cheapest option is not what you think

Transporting a boat costs on average:

  • $1.50/mile to $3.50/mile by land
  • $350-$450 per day (plus expenses) over water

Insurance costs

Can add up depending on your boat

If you have fuel tanks, you must be insured. Same goes for anchors and electronics. So that's pretty much everyone with a serious boat.

Equipment

The gear is what we're here for

Equipment cost depends on the type of sailing. Cruising equipment will typically cost between $5,000 - $10,000 for a full refit. For simple day trips, you can get around for just $500.

Docking costs

Can get expensive depending on your location

Docking costs typically range from $65 to $100 per month, depending on boat length, dock type, and location. You can reduce docking costs by 80% — we'll show you how in our docking cost guide.

Maintenance costs

It costs less if you keep up

Maintenance will roughly cost 10% of the purchase value of the boat, if it's new or a well-maintained second-hand.

In practice, this will roughly be between $250 - $1,000 per month, depending on the boat size.

This rule of thumb doesn't apply to project boats bought at a fraction of the cost.

Regular maintenance

Rigging and sails

Engine

Accessories

Transporting your boat

The cheapest option is not what you think

Transporting a boat costs on average:

  • $1.50/mile to $3.50/mile by land
  • $350-$450 per day (plus expenses) over water

Insurance costs

Can add up depending on your boat

If you have fuel tanks, you must be insured. Same goes for anchors and electronics. So that's pretty much everyone with a serious boat.

Equipment

The gear is what we're here for

Equipment cost depends on the type of sailing. Cruising equipment will typically cost between $5,000 - $10,000 for a full refit. For simple day trips, you can get around for just $500.

All Cost of owning a boat Articles