Buying a boat is often a major investment that requires careful financial planning. Whether you dream of a sailboat for family cruises, a motor boat for thrills, or a vessel for fishing, financing solutions are numerous but must be carefully evaluated. The total budget should take into account not only the purchase price, but also recurring costs such as maintenance, insurance, port space and fuel. These ancillary costs can represent between 10% and 20% of the value of the boat each year. To achieve your nautical dream without compromising your financial stability, it is essential to know all the options available and to choose the one that best fits your personal situation and your sailing goals.

1. Define your budget and needs

The first crucial step before buying a boat is to clearly define your budget and needs. This preliminary reflection will allow you to avoid many disappointments and to effectively guide your search for financing.

Type of boat: sailboat, motor boat, semi-rigid...

Each type of boat involves a different investment. A sailboat generally requires a larger budget to buy, but has the advantage of consuming less fuel. A motor boat offers more power and speed, but consumes more fuel. Rigids are often a good compromise for beginners with a more accessible purchase price, simplified maintenance and good versatility of use.

Intended use: leisure, fishing, cruising, regatta

The use you plan to make of your boat will directly influence the choice of model and, therefore, the budget to be expected. A boat intended for occasional day trips will require less investment than a ship equipped for long-term cruises. Likewise, a high-performance regatta yacht will require a larger budget, both at the time of purchase and for its maintenance and regular upgrading.

Ancillary costs to be anticipated (maintenance, berth, insurance, fuel)

Beyond the purchase price, it is imperative to anticipate recurring costs, which can represent a significant financial burden. Port space is often the most significant expense item, varying greatly depending on the geographical location and size of the boat. Annual maintenance (fairing, antifouling, engine overhaul) represents on average 5 to 10% of the boat's value. Insurance, on the other hand, can range between 1 and 3% of the value of the ship. Finally, fuel can become a significant issue, especially for motor boats.

Installing a monitoring system like Oria Marine IoT box can be a wise investment to optimize energy consumption and prevent certain costly breakdowns, thus reducing maintenance costs in the long term.

2. The various financing solutions

Once your needs and budget are clearly defined, it is time to explore the various financing options available on the market.

Classic boat loan

How it works

Classic boat credit is a loan specifically designed for the purchase of a ship. This is an allocated credit, which means that the amount borrowed is exclusively intended for the acquisition of the identified boat. The bank or financial institution pays the funds directly to the seller or to the shipyard, and the boat is generally used as collateral for the loan.

Term and interest rate

The repayment period generally ranges from 3 to 15 years, depending on the amount borrowed and the policy of the lending institution. Interest rates vary considerably depending on the profile of the borrower, the credit amount, the repayment term and the personal contribution. On average, they are between 3% and 7% in 2025, but may be more beneficial for solid cases.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of conventional boat loans lies in its specificity, with conditions generally adapted to this type of acquisition. It often allows you to obtain longer repayment terms than other forms of credit.

Among the disadvantages, we can note the sometimes high application fees and a certain rigidity in the reimbursement conditions. In addition, in the event of financial difficulties, the boat may be seized by the lending institution.

Affected credit vs personal loan

Specificities of the affected credit

The credit allocated, unlike the personal loan, is directly linked to the purchase of an identified asset. It has the advantage of offering additional legal protection to the borrower: if the boat is not delivered or if the boat has hidden defects, the credit contract may be cancelled. In addition, the rates are generally more advantageous than those of a personal loan, due to the guarantee that the boat represents.

Personal loan: more flexibility, but at what cost?

The personal loan offers greater freedom in the use of funds. It is not necessarily linked to the purchase of a specific property, which allows for greater flexibility. For example, it can cover both the purchase of the boat and some additional equipment.

However, this flexibility is generally paid for by higher interest rates (between 4% and 9% in 2025) and often shorter repayment terms. In addition, the absence of a legal link between the loan and the purchase does not make it possible to benefit from the protections offered by the affected credit.

Nautical leasing or leasing

Principle of leasing a boat

Nautical leasing is a method of financing by which a financial company (the lessor) buys the boat chosen by the future user (the lessee) and leases it to him for a fixed period of time. At the end of this period, the lessee has the possibility of definitively acquiring the boat in return for the payment of a previously fixed residual value.

Who is this solution for?

Nautical leasing is mainly aimed at people who want to sail with a recent boat and have a regular and comfortable income. It is particularly suitable for professionals or individuals who plan to use the boat intensively and who wish to renew it regularly.

This solution is also interesting for owners who plan to rent their boat for part of the year, as the income generated can contribute to the financing of leasing.

Trade-in and purchase option

At the end of the contract, which is generally between 3 and 7 years, the lessee has three options:

• Raise the purchase option and become the owner of the boat by paying the residual value (generally between 1% and 20% of the initial price).
• Return the boat at no additional cost (provided it is in good used condition).
• Renew the contract for a new boat, thus making it possible to always sail with a recent model.

Rental with option to buy (LOA)

Detailed operation

Renting with an Option to Purchase (LOA) is a lot like leasing but has some notable differences. Under a LOA, the tenant pays a first increased rent (the equivalent of a contribution), then regular monthly payments throughout the duration of the contract.

The contract precisely defines the conditions of use of the boat, in particular the number of hours of navigation authorized. Exceeding may result in additional charges.

Possible tax benefits

The LOA can offer tax advantages, especially for professionals who can deduct rents from their taxable income. For individuals, VAT on rentals can be recovered in certain specific cases, in particular for boats flying a commercial flag or used for rental.

The installation of ecological equipment such as the Oria Marine IoT box can sometimes give rise to additional tax benefits in certain regions, thanks to its positive impact on reducing energy consumption.

Comparison with a direct purchase

Compared to a direct purchase, LOA has the advantage of limiting the immobilization of capital and of avoiding the discount of the boat. It also makes it possible to accurately forecast the monthly budget devoted to the boat.

On the other hand, the total cost is generally higher than that of a direct purchase financed by traditional credit. In addition, the terms of use may be binding, and additional fees may apply if the boat is not returned in the agreed condition.

3. Specific grants and aids

Although less well known, some aids can contribute to the financing of your boat in specific situations.

Regional or departmental aid

Rare cases, but to watch out for

Direct aid for the purchase of pleasure boats for individuals is rare, but some regions or departments with a strong maritime tradition may offer specific devices. This aid is generally linked to territorial development or ecological transition objectives.

For example, some communities may support the acquisition of electric or hybrid boats as part of policies to reduce polluting emissions. Others may offer grants for the preservation of nautical heritage, in particular for the restoration of traditional boats.

Examples of one-off assistance

One-off assistance may be offered as part of specific events, such as regional boat shows, where preferential financing offers are sometimes available.

Some marinas may also offer preferential mooring rates to local residents or boat owners that meet certain environmental criteria.

Specific funding for professionals

Fishermen, charter, sailing schools

Professionals in the nautical sector benefit from dedicated financing solutions. Professional fishermen can access specific aid from the European Union via the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF), which in particular supports the renewal of fishing fleets.

Charter companies and sailing schools can benefit from professional loans at advantageous conditions, sometimes guaranteed by BPI France or other guarantee organizations.

Access to professional loans or sectoral grants

Companies in the nautical sector can also access specific professional loans from banks specializing in maritime financing. These loans take into account the specificities of the activity, in particular the seasonality of income.

Sectoral grants can be awarded as part of innovative or ecological projects. For example, the integration of advanced technologies such as the Oria Marine IoT box to improve energy efficiency or ship safety may be eligible for certain innovation grants.

4. Financing a used boat: specificities

Buying a used boat has its own characteristics that should be taken into account in your financing strategy.

Better accessibility but more vigilance

Used boats generally offer a more accessible entry point into the nautical world, with prices that can be 30% to 70% lower than those of equivalent new models. However, this financial accessibility comes with the need for vigilance.

The expertise of the boat by an independent professional is strongly recommended before any purchase to avoid unpleasant surprises. The cost of this expertise (between €500 and €2,000 depending on the size of the boat) must be integrated into the overall budget.

Property valuation and guarantees

An accurate assessment of the value of a used boat is crucial in determining the amount of financing to be requested. It must take into account the age of the boat, its general condition, the maintenance history, the equipment present and the rating of the model on the market.

In terms of guarantees, used boats rarely benefit from the manufacturer's warranty, except for recent models. The legal guarantee of conformity may apply in case of purchase from a professional, but not for transactions between individuals.

Adapted credit solutions

Financing solutions for used boats are generally similar to those for new boats, but have some particularities. Repayment terms are generally shorter, and interest rates are slightly higher.

Some specialized establishments offer specific packages for used boats, sometimes including an additional envelope for refurbishment or improvement work. This solution can be particularly interesting for installing modern equipment such as the Oria Marine IoT box on an old boat, thus making it possible to benefit from the advantages of modern technology in terms of safety and energy saving.

5. Tips for optimizing your financing

A few practical tips can help you get the best financing conditions for your boat.

Compare banking and nautical offers

Do not limit yourself to your usual bank or to the financing offered by the seller. Take the time to compare several offers, both from traditional banking institutions and organizations specializing in nautical financing.

Boat shows are often a great opportunity to gather and compare different funding proposals. Dealers frequently offer preferential conditions, in particular on interest rates or administrative fees.

Take care of your file: contribution, guarantees, income

A solid financing case is essential to obtain the best conditions. A significant personal contribution (ideally 20% to 30% of the boat price) reassures lenders and generally allows them to obtain a more advantageous rate.

Income stability is also an important criterion for credit organizations. Carefully prepare your income receipts and anticipate questions about your ability to meet not only the monthly loan payments, but also the recurring costs associated with owning a boat.

Anticipate maintenance costs and cuts

Discounting a boat is an element that should not be overlooked in your financial strategy. A new boat can lose up to 30% of its value in the first three years. For used boats, the discount is generally more gradual, but remains significant.

Regular maintenance is essential to maintain the value of your boat and avoid costly repairs. Plan an annual maintenance budget and consider monitoring solutions such as the Oria Marine IoT box that make it possible to detect anomalies early and optimize preventive maintenance.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

What are the average interest rates for a boat loan in 2025?

In 2025, interest rates for boat loans generally vary between 3% and 7% depending on the institution, the duration of the loan and the borrower's profile. The lowest rates are generally reserved for borrowers with an excellent record (stable and high incomes, low debt) and offering a significant personal contribution. Short-term loans (3 to 5 years) generally benefit from lower rates than long-term loans.

Do you need a deposit to get a boat loan?

Although a personal contribution is not always mandatory to obtain a boat loan, it is highly recommended and significantly improves the conditions of the loan. Most financial institutions require a minimum contribution of 10% to 20% of the boat price. A larger contribution (30% or more) generally makes it possible to obtain a more advantageous interest rate and considerably increases the chances of acceptance of the file.

Can you buy a boat on credit without being a French resident?

Yes, it is possible for a non-resident to buy a boat on credit in France, but the conditions are generally more restrictive. French banks may be reluctant to grant a loan to a person who does not reside on the national territory. In this case, it may be better to turn to organizations specializing in international financing or to banks in the buyer's country of residence. A larger personal contribution (often at least 30%) is generally required for non-residents.

What are the tax advantages of a nautical lease?

Nautical leasing can offer several tax advantages, especially for professionals or boats under commercial flags. The main advantage is the possibility of recovering VAT on rentals for boats used in commercial activity or for rental. For individuals, leasing allows the payment of VAT to be spread over the duration of the contract rather than paying it in full upon purchase. In certain specific cases, in particular for boats flying a foreign flag or sailing mainly outside French territorial waters, special tax regimes may apply.

How much does annual boat maintenance cost on average?

The annual maintenance cost of a boat varies considerably depending on its size, type, and use, but generally represents between 5% and 15% of the boat's value. For a 10-meter sailboat worth €100,000, you need to expect around €5,000 to €10,000 per year, including berth, insurance, annual fairing, engine and sail maintenance, as well as minor routine repairs. For a motorboat of equivalent size, costs may be slightly higher due to higher fuel consumption and more frequent engine maintenance.

Can a used boat be financed by LOA?

Yes, some establishments offer Rental with Purchase Option (LOA) packages for used boats, but this solution is less common than for new boats. The conditions are generally more restrictive: the boat must be relatively new (generally less than 5 to 10 years old) and in excellent condition. The duration of the contract is often shorter (2 to 5 years maximum) and the monthly payments may be higher than for a new boat. It is recommended to carefully compare this solution with traditional credit to determine the most advantageous option.