Where do the Catamarans go?

[brenty.112]

I've been seeing more Catamarans getting rotated out of charter fleets lately. Do they mostly hit the used market or get picked up by smaller charter operators? It feels like the secondhand Catamaran market is getting flooded.

 

[NegativeLanguage247]

Your observation is quite astute, that phase out schedule from the major charter fleets is a well oiled machine. I tracked a few specific Leopard catamarans for years and learned the lion's share go directly into the charter company's own brokerage arms for private sale. Are you noticing this trend with a particular brand like Lagoon or Fountaine Pajot or is it across the board? @brenty.112

 

[cypher18]

Yeah, a lot of ex-charter catamaranss end up on the used market, though some do get scooped up by smaller charter companies. Lately, there's been a noticeable uptick, so the market's getting a little bit crowded, which is positive if you're buying, but tougher if you're trying to sell.

 

[bleuescruise]

I've been seeing more Catamarans getting rotated out of charter fleets lately. Do they mostly hit the used market or get picked up by smaller charter operators? It feels like the secondhand Catamaran market is getting flooded.

It's a mix but what the others said is true.. a lot do end up on the used market. Major charter companies have a regular phase-out schedule, typically after 4-6 years. These boats are generally well-maintained, but because they've seen a lot of use, they'll usually be priced lower than a comparable private boat. Some do get picked up by smaller charter operators, especially those looking to expand their fleet without the high cost of new builds. However, the sheer volume means a significant portion goes to individual buyers looking for a good deal on a well-equipped catamaran, even if it requires some TLC. The post-COVID boom in boat sales is also correcting, adding more inventory as some owners decide boating isn't for them after all.

 

[BreezeRider]

Absolutely, it's pretty standard for fleets to phase out boats after 4 to 6 years. Even though these vessels usually have good maintenance histories, the heavy usage does take a toll on their systems. Plus, the shift in the market post-COVID is definitely increasing supply, which opens up some great opportunities for buyers willing to tackle a little refit work