The growing trend of long-term yacht berth sales

Between February and June 2025, YACHTZOO has successfully sold three long-term leases for yacht berths—a noteworthy achievement that reflects a significant shift in the yachting market. This trend underscores the growing importance of securing berths in an increasingly competitive environment.

Why long-term leases are gaining popularity

The yachting industry is experiencing a surge in new yacht deliveries, especially in the Mediterranean, one of the world’s most coveted cruising grounds. However, the supply of new port developments and berths has not kept pace with this growth. As a result, yacht owners are turning to long-term leases as a strategic solution to guarantee their berths, particularly during the high season when demand peaks.

Long-term leases provide owners with security and peace of mind, ensuring their yachts have a dedicated spot in prime marinas without the uncertainty and inconvenience of short-term availability. Additionally, owning a long-term lease offers a unique financial advantage: when your yacht is not occupying the berth, you can generate income by renting it out to other yacht owners, maximizing the value of your investment.

Why choose us for your long-term berth lease?

YACHTZOO stands out as one of the few major yachting houses which also specialize in the brokerage of long-term berth leases. Our team bring invaluable expertise to the table — many are ex-captains who understand the operational needs and priorities of yacht owners first-hand. This unique insight makes our brokers the perfect advisors for navigating the complexities of long-term berth acquisitions.

“As berth rates are expected to rise due to demand, securing a berth under a lease of 20 years or more offers both long-term peace of mind and the potential for capital gain. With demand likely to increase over the next decade, there’s an opportunity not only for consistent personal use but also for a potential return on investment, especially if the berth is sold with substantial time remaining on the lease” – Kyle van Huizen

We guide owners through every step, from identifying the right marina and berth to negotiating lease terms to protect their investment and enhance their yachting experience.

Recent developments expanding berth availability

Two notable marina developments have brought a level of response to this demand:

• Cala del Forte – Italy: This new development is adding valuable berth capacity around the highly sought-after coasts of Italy, Monaco and France. Offering modern facilities and a strategic partnership with Monaco Ports, this marina particularly appeals to Mediterranean yacht owners.
• Port Nimara – Anguilla: Set to become Anguilla’s first mega yacht marina, Port Nimara will introduce a fresh approach by offering long-term lease sales of berths up to 70 metres. This development promises to open new opportunities in the Caribbean, a region always increasingly popular in yachting.

Other development projects include:

• Marina di Livorno – Italy: Opening June 2026, with 815 berths and state-of-the-art facilities near the Azimut | Benetti shipyard.
• Vlora Marina – Albania: Under construction with 438 berths and luxury amenities, set to elevate Albania’s yachting profile.
• Pylos Marina – Greece: A new project with 129 berths and a focus on environmental sustainability and community development.

Kobe Superyacht Marina Base – Japan

The upcoming Superyacht Base Kobe Marina is set to become the largest superyacht facility in Asia-Pacific, opening fully by 2027. It will offer over 1.4 km of quays for yachts of all sizes, flexible berth options, and modern infrastructure in a prime waterfront location near downtown Kobe. With excellent transport links and world-class amenities, this marina aims to be a key hub for superyachts exploring Japan and the wider region.

For more details, visit our Kobe Superyacht Marina page.

The smart move for future-focused yacht Owners

As yacht ownership continues to grow and the demand for quality berths intensifies, long-term leases will become an increasingly important part of marina strategies worldwide. Owners who secure these leases early will enjoy convenience and flexibility, ensuring their yachts are well positioned to enjoy the best cruising seasons — while also having the potential to generate income through subletting when the berth is not in use.

If you are considering a long-term berth lease or want to explore the latest marina developments, contact our expert brokers today.