Owning a boat is a dream for many: the ultimate feeling of freedom on the water. But besides the romance of lapping waves and sunsets, it also comes with a hefty dose of reality. Because what does a boat really cost? In this article, we list all the costs: from purchase and maintenance to insurance and lesser-known expenses.
The biggest expense, of course, is the purchase. Depending on the type of boat, prices vary enormously. A simple second-hand sloop can be purchased from as little as €5,000, while for a new powerboat or sailboat you will soon be heading towards €25,000 to €100,000 or more.
If you opt for financing, interest and redemption costs will be added. Also consider additional costs such as transport, registration and possibly an inspection.
A boat requires maintenance, regardless of its use. Think engine maintenance, antifouling, polishing and minor painting. This can add up to several hundred euros a year, or more if you have it outsourced.
Besides, your boat has to be somewhere. If you do not have a place at home, you will have to go to a marina. The cost of a berth varies greatly by region, but count on €500 to €2,000 per year. In winter, there is often a separate storage fee, including crane, cleaning and storage costs.
Fuel depends on the type of engine and the number of cruising hours. For an average motorboat, you can easily spend several hundred euros per boating season on petrol or diesel.
Without insurance, you run a financial risk
Boat insurance is not a legal requirement in the Netherlands, but it is highly recommended. Damage caused by a collision or storm, for instance, can be very expensive. Moreover, many marinas require liability insurance before you can moor.
You can choose from various coverages, such as third-party, limited hull and full hull. This allows you to tailor the insurance to your type of boat and use. At Eerdmans Yacht Insurances you can insure your boat with tailor-made boat insurance.
In some cases, you need to register your boat, especially for heavier motorboats or use on certain waters. Registration at the Land Registry costs €24 (2025). In addition, a boating tax applies in some municipalities.
For up-to-date regulations and costs, please visit the website of the Central government.
Besides the known costs, there are also hidden or incidental expenses. Consider accessories such as a swim ladder, new lines, fenders or a tarpaulin. Breakdowns along the way, such as a broken impeller or a faulty battery, can also cause unexpectedly high costs.
Further: if you sail with a trailer, you have to deal with maintenance and MOT for the trailer, plus a tow bar on your car.
Those who buy a boat well prepared and take all costs into account can enjoy years of boating without unpleasant financial surprises. The key is in keeping an overview, comparing well and making smart choices - and, of course, an appropriate insurance policy that protects your boating comfort.
Are you considering a boat of your own? Then make sure you not only look at the purchase price, but also at the overall picture. That way, you will soon be able to enjoy carefree boating.
