Thailand is a boating paradise, with year-round warm waters, stunning cruising grounds, and a growing yachting community. Whether you're looking for a new or pre-owned monohull, powerboat, or catamaran, there are key considerations before making your purchase.
Where to Buy a Boat in Thailand?
Dealerships & Brokers (Best for New & Quality Pre-Owned Boats)
Major yacht brokers operate in Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok.
Well-known brokers: Simpson Marine, Derani Yachts, Gulf Charters, and Multihull Solutions.
Best option for buyers who want warranty support and professional surveys.
Private Sales & Classifieds (Best for Budget Pre-Owned Boats)
Listings can be found on:
Facebook Groups: Thailand Boat Buy & Sell
Websites: YachtWorld, Boats24, and Asia Marine
These deals can be cheaper but require thorough inspections.
Boat Shows & Marinas (Best for Hands-On Inspections)
Thailand International Boat Show (Phuket) and Pattaya Boat Show showcase new and brokerage boats.
Marinas like Ao Po Grand Marina, Ocean Marina, and Royal Phuket Marina often have boats for sale.
New vs. Pre-Owned: What’s Best for You?
Factor | New Boat | Pre-Owned Boat |
Cost | Expensive, full warranty | Lower cost, may need repairs |
Customization | Choose layout & features | Limited to existing setup |
Maintenance | Lower initially | May need upgrades or repairs |
Availability | Can take months to arrive | Ready to sail immediately |
Depreciation | Higher loss in first years | Slower depreciation |
If you want worry-free ownership, go new. If you want better value, buy pre-owned but budget for repairs.
Key Considerations Before Buying
1. Intended Use
Day cruising? Look for a powerboat or sport boat (e.g., RIBs, speedboats).
Liveaboard or extended cruising? A catamaran or larger sailboat is best.
Fishing or diving? Consider center consoles or express cruisers.
2. Thai Registration & Legal Aspects
Foreigners can own boats in Thailand, but registration and mooring rules apply.
If you’re not a Thai resident, registering under a foreign flag (e.g., Langkawi, BVI) may be easier.
Thai-flagged boats require a Thai captain’s license for boats over 30GT.
3. Survey & Inspection (For Used Boats)
Hire a marine surveyor to check the hull, engine, and electrical systems.
Watch for osmosis (blisters in fiberglass), corroded fittings, and old wiring.
4. Mooring & Maintenance Costs
Marinas: Expect ฿10,000–฿40,000 per month depending on size.
Haul-out & antifouling: Every 1–2 years, costing ฿30,000–฿100,000.
Annual maintenance (engine, electronics, etc.): Typically 5–10% of the boat’s value.
Best Boat Types for Thailand’s Waters
Powerboats & RIBs (20-40ft) – Great for island hopping and day trips.
Sailing Monohulls (30-50ft) – Good for long-distance cruising but require deeper moorings.
Catamarans (35-60ft) – Perfect for Thailand’s shallow waters and offer better space and stability.
Liveaboard Trawlers & Motor Yachts (40-60ft) – Ideal for extended cruising but higher fuel costs.
Final Thoughts
Buying a boat in Thailand is easier than many expect, but pre-purchase inspections, legal considerations, and maintenance costs should be carefully evaluated. Whether you're looking for a weekend cruiser or a full-time liveaboard, choosing the right boat will depend on your needs, budget, and future plans.
Comments