Some may ask, why ship your yacht when you can sail it? For many, shipping isn’t just faster – it’s often the more practical, reliable, and protective option.
Why should I ship my yacht?
There is no feeling like Bluewater cruising, whether it’s sailing between picturesque anchorages and marinas, or racing across the seas. There is, however, always a choice to be made when it is all over: how is my yacht getting home, or on to its next destination? There are many factors to consider, but the most important are time, efficiency and the protection of the yacht itself.
Shipping your yacht is often the most timesaving, efficient and safe way of relocating it. In many cases, it also proves the most efficient overall; fewer delivery miles under engine power mean less wear and fuel use, and a smaller environmental footprint overall.
What are the common issues with sailing or delivering my yacht?
You have just finished your summer cruising around the Canary Islands, you have enjoyed three weeks of perfect cruising conditions, competed in two regattas, and now you are looking forward to the Caribbean season. You know the transatlantic crossing from Palma to Fort Lauderdale roughly takes three weeks under sail – or does it?
Even the best-planned passage can be derailed by bad weather, mechanical problems, crew shortages, or unexpected expenses—whether you’re sailing yourself or relying on a delivery crew. As one experienced skipper put it, “We used to think sailing the boat there ourselves made more sense — until a three-day delay turned into a two-week setback.”
Engine hours, rigging fatigue, and saltwater exposure gradually impact performance and the condition of the yacht — every mile at sea adds wear. Increasing reports of orca attacks in some regions have also introduced new safety considerations for owners planning delivery voyages — a reminder that the ocean, while magnificent, is unpredictable.
Whilst sailing or delivery voyages might look straightforward on paper, the reality is often different. Crew logistics, insurance extensions, equipment failure, fuel costs, and weather-related delays can quickly turn a cost-saving idea into an expensive exercise.
What are the benefits of shipping to my yacht?
For most yacht owners, planning and reliability matter just as much as the voyage itself. When schedules are tight and maintenance costs high, shipping provides a managed and coordinated alternative that helps reduce uncertainty. It gets your yacht where it needs to be — safely, efficiently, and ready to sail.
Minimising risk is at the heart of shipping your yacht: reducing time spent in transit, reducing mechanical stress, reducing the need for repairs, and increasing the yacht’s service life. This approach aligns with how more owners and insurers are now thinking about protecting their assets.
Of course, as with any global logistics operation, shipping is not a perfect art. Factors such as adverse weather, port congestion, or changes in vessel schedules can affect shipping times.
At Peters & May, clear communication is paramount throughout the process, behind every successful shipment sits a network of experts, surveyors, captains, and logistics specialists, all focused on reducing potential issues and keeping owners informed from start to finish.
Proactive updates, realistic planning windows, and close coordination with captains and agents ensure that owners and crews can plan with confidence — even when circumstances shift.
How much does it cost to ship a yacht?
Beyond timing and reliability, cost naturally plays a part in the decision to ship rather than sail. Costs vary depending on the size and type of yacht, route, and service chosen. A smaller yacht travelling between Mediterranean ports will differ significantly in cost from a 70ft performance yacht shipped across the Atlantic.
Other factors — such as cradle design, port handling fees, and insurance requirements — also influence pricing. That’s why most owners begin with an indicative quote based on the yacht’s exact dimensions, weight, and desired schedule.
At Peters & May, costs are always outlined clearly before booking. As independent freight forwarders, we can compare space across several carrier options to help owners find the best balance between schedule, route, and budget.
Choosing a shipping company with proven experience can make all the difference in how smooth that process feels.
How do I ship my yacht?
From the moment of your enquiry, our specialists advise on the most suitable route and vessel – whether that’s space on our regular liner services or a dedicated charter suited to your schedule.
The initial consultation looks at route options, loading ports and budgets to ensure the most effective outcome. Once a quote is confirmed, our operations team begins coordinating the logistics — from ship scheduling and cradle design to insurance documentation and port arrangements. Clear communication between owners, captains, and local agents ensures that everything is prepared ahead of the day loading.
When it comes to execution, precision matters. Our experienced loadmasters oversee every lift and lashing, working alongside port teams to ensure each yacht is handled safely and efficiently from start to finish.
Every shipment is handled with the same attention to detail. With over 50 years of experience shipping yachts worldwide, Peters & May manages the logistics so owners and captains can focus on what matters most — the sailing itself. Our global offices and agent network mean every stage — from booking to offload — is managed by local specialists who are familiar with regional regulations and port procedures.
Before you know it, your yacht is back with you — with our team on hand to assist with customs coordination and offload support at your destination.
To discuss your next route or upcoming movement, contact our team for tailored advice.
Tel: +44 (0)2380 480 440
Email: info@petersandmay.com
