How Much Is A Downeast Boat?

Owners of downeast-style boats have a unique passion for the traditional look of these vessels that goes back more than 100 years in a rich heritage of fishing offshore. Downeast yachts, also known as lobster boats due to their affinity by Atlantic-coast lobster fishermen, have excellent reputations for their seakeeping characteristics. While the hull shape varies by builder, the high bow raise and deep-v is consistent and results in a stable, comfortable ride for those on board. Traditional downeast builders, like Sabre Yachts or Grand Banks, have made remarkable improvements over the years in the comfort of their boats while making a concerted effort to maintain the classic look.

Owning a downeast boat, while they are known for having better fuel efficiency than a larger motor yacht or sportfish, can still be a costly endeavor as boat prices have increased substantially over the last few years. A recent market report by the industry's MLS stated that boat prices at risen over 70% in some categories.

The average price of a downeast boat in today's market in the United States is $521,035. We did use specific criteria to arrive at that cost including limiting the data to pre-owned boats over 30-feet, and that were built in 2002 or newer. On average, these vessels were on the market for 106 days, a testament to the increased demand over the last year.

(Below: This 2008 Grand Banks 55 is listed for $1.2 million.)

Many factors contribute to the cost of a downeast boat and how they are priced for market. Certainly size, who the builder is, the engine power, and equipment on board all matter. When the boat was built certainly comes into consideration, but does not necessarily make for an overly large gap in price. Many downeast builders will keep generally the same power and features in a model for several years before making a major change as this helps with the construction process, producing boats more quickly, but also the resale value for the owners. Take these Sabre 42 prices below that are currently on the market:

• 2017 Sabre 42 - $749,000
• 2016 Sabre 42 - $739,000
• 2014 Sabre 42 - $674,000
• 2012 Sabre 42 - $649,000

All of the above vessels, except for the 2012 model, were powered with the Volvo D-6 380HP engines. Volvo is a popular choice among downeast boat builders as they are reliable, tend to have better fuel efficiency, less vibration, and offer joystick control. The older model was outfitted with twin Cummins QSB 380HP engines.

Of course, if your budget dictates an older vessel, there are increasingly more boats becoming available.

(Below: This 2005 Sabre 42 Express is listed for sale under $400,000.)

Looking at pre-pandemic levels, there were 35% more pre-owned downeast boats that fit our criteria above that were sold in the first part of 2019 versus 2022. Inventory levels for pre-owned yacht have decreased dramatically over the last few years, fueled by consumer demand and a boom in first time boat owners.

Comparing sold numbers for 2019 versus 2022, there has been a 25% increase in the price of the boat as available inventory declined. While a 25% increase over a 2 year period isn't a small jump in price, it is far less than some other categories. 

The most interesting statistic when comparing the brokerage market in 2019 versus 2022 is the amount of time spent on the market. On average, pre-owned downeast boats were sold 68% faster in 2022 than in 2019.

(Below: Hinckley Yachts is a well-known, reputable downeast boat builder.)

At United Yacht Sales, we have over 250 yacht brokers worldwide that, along with our massive database of owners, creates the world's largest network of boat buyers and sellers in the industry. We are a true, professional yacht brokerage firm that puts our focus and 100% of our marketing efforts towards our listings - NOT new boats or trade-ins that we own. 

If you are interested in selling your downeast boat or other type of vessel, please either fill out the form on our 'What's My Boat Worth?' page or simply call our main headquarters at 1-772-463-3131. We look forward to working with you on the sale or purchase of your next yacht!

Enjoy these other articles on downeast boats:

• Why A Downeast Boat Might Be Perfect For You
• Who Makes Downeast Style Boats?
• What Makes A Boat A Downeast?

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