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How to Avoid Getting Catfished by Yacht Listings
Buying a yacht should be exciting — not disappointing. Unfortunately, many buyers discover that the boat they fell in love with online looks very different in person. This phenomenon, often referred to as being "catfished by a yacht listing," is more common than most people realize.
Ben Ward
5 days ago3 min read


How to Buy a Yacht Without Overpaying
Buying a yacht is one of the most exciting purchases you’ll ever make—but it can also be one of the easiest ways to overspend if you don’t approach the process strategically. Whether you’re buying your first yacht, upgrading to a larger vessel, or purchasing a boat for long-range cruising or charter use, understanding how to buy a yacht without overpaying is critical.
Ben Ward
Dec 30, 20255 min read


Hot, Cool, or Chilly? — What’s the Temperature of the Yacht Sales Market Right Now (Florida & U.S. outlook for buyers & sellers)
A common question we get is, “What is the temperature of the yacht sales market right now?” and the short answer is...
Ben Ward
Dec 2, 20256 min read


Common Misconceptions in the Yacht Brokerage Industry: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know
The yacht brokerage industry is filled with myths and misunderstandings that often lead buyers and sellers down the wrong path. From licensing requirements to what brokers actually do behind the scenes, there is no shortage of misinformation — and believing these myths can cost you time, money, and create legal exposure.
Ben Ward
Nov 26, 20256 min read


Navigating Florida’s Newest Boating Laws: What Yacht Owners Need to Know
This guide breaks down navigating Florida’s newest boating laws, helping owners and operators stay compliant, protect their investment, and keep enjoying Florida’s world-class waterways.
Ben Ward
Nov 15, 20256 min read


Why Fall 2025 Is an Ideal Time to List Your Used Boat or Yacht in Florida
With Ward Yacht Sales by your side Just a sampling of Ward Yacht Sales newest listings. Selling a pre-owned boat or yacht in Florida? If you’re considering listing in Fall 2025, you’re in a fantastic window of opportunity. From the end of peak hurricane risk to renewed buyer enthusiasm at major boat shows, now is a smart time for sellers to list their boat for sale. Here’s why... 1. Fall Season in Florida: The Wind Turns The hurricane threat is easing Although the Atlanti
Ben Ward
Oct 24, 20255 min read


Maintenance Logs: The Secret Weapon for Getting Top Dollar for Your Yacht
Owning a well maintained yacht is one of life’s real pleasures. Pride of ownership in a boat can be seen and felt. Whether you’re cruising the coastline in a powerboat or harnessing the power of the wind in a bluewater sailboat, the freedom of the open water is unlike any other experience. Boats inevitably change hands eventually, so we are all temporary stewards of our vessels. Planning ahead for the day you sell is something you need to keep in mind from day one.
Ben Ward
Sep 27, 20255 min read


How to Buy Your First Powerboat in Florida: A Complete Guide
Buying your first powerboat is an exciting milestone, especially in Florida where year-round boating, fishing, and family cruising are...
Ben Ward
Sep 16, 20255 min read


Florida Boat Shows for Fall 2025/ Spring 2026: Complete Guide for Buyers & Boaters
If you’re a boater, boat buyer, or just love the marine lifestyle, the Florida boat show season in the fall of 2025 and spring of 2026 has something big for everyone. From superyachts to center consoles, from first-time buyers to luxury seekers, the shows below are the major events to put on your calendar. In this guide, you will learn what makes each show special, the dates, what types of boats will be featured, how easy it is to navigate & park, and who each show is best fo
Ben Ward
Sep 11, 20254 min read


Caring for Teak on Your Boat: A Love Hate Relationship
If you've ever had a boat with any significant amount of teak, you know exactly what we mean about having a love/ hate relationship with it. On the one hand, the natural beauty and longevity of teak are hard to beat. Under foot, natural teak provides excellent footing, even when wet. It adds a timeless and functional aesthetic to boats of all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, teak maintenance can be costly and time consuming.
Ben Ward
Sep 4, 20255 min read


Behind the Scenes of a Yacht Brokerage: What We Actually Do for Clients
If you’ve ever wondered, "What does a yacht broker actually do for me?," you’re not alone. Many buyers and sellers assume a yacht brokerage simply lists boats online and then waits for the phone to ring. For those who take this profession seriously, the satirical classic rock song, "Money for Nothing," by Dire Straits comes to mind because, while it might look or sound simple, in reality, there is a lot to it. Selling a yacht can be just as complicated as a real estate proper
Ben Ward
Aug 26, 20253 min read


5 Ways to Make Your Boat More Attractive to Buyers in Florida
If you’re getting ready to sell your boat in Florida, presentation is everything. With so many listings on the market—especially in boating hubs like Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Stuart, Palm Beach, and Naples—buyers have choices and are better informed than ever. It's time to make your boat more attractive to buyers in Florida - the largest boating market in the world!
Ben Ward
Aug 20, 20254 min read


The Tax Benefits of Buying a Boat as a Business
Why More Buyers Are Turning Their Passion for Boating Into a Profitable Business! For many buyers, yacht ownership is no longer just...
Ben Ward
Aug 14, 20254 min read


How to Prepare Your Yacht for Hurricane Season
f you own a yacht and live in a hurricane-prone area—like Florida, the Gulf Coast, or the East Coast—then hurricane season is a real and present threat to your vessel, your finances, and your peace of mind.
Ben Ward
Aug 4, 20253 min read


How to Price Your Boat to Sell in Today’s Market
If you're preparing to sell your boat in 2025, you're entering a more selective marketplace. Learn how to How to price your boat to sell in today's market.
Ben Ward
Jul 29, 20254 min read


First-Time Yacht Buyer’s Guide: Avoid These Common Mistakes in 2025
Buying your first yacht is an exciting milestone—a chance to unlock a new lifestyle on the water filled with freedom, adventure, and unforgettable moments. But without the right guidance, it’s easy to make costly missteps that can turn your dream purchase into a regrettable one.
Ben Ward
Jul 22, 20253 min read


How to Turn Your Dream Yacht into a Smart Investment: Buying a New Catamaran for Charter Placement
For many aspiring yacht owners, the idea of owning a luxury catamaran may feel out of reach. But for savvy buyers, there’s a path that not only brings the dream within reach—but also transforms it into a smart financial move. By purchasing a new Lagoon catamaran through an active LLC and placing it into a professionally managed charter program, U.S. buyers can unlock a range of financial, tax, and lifestyle benefits. In this week's post, we're going to explore how it works!
Ben Ward
Jul 14, 20254 min read


Catamaran vs. Monohull: Which Sailboat is Right for You?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the Catamaran vs. Monohull debate Whether you're planning extended cruising, looking for a...
Ben Ward
Jul 7, 20253 min read
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