Week 29 December 2025- 4 January 2026.
Weekly Snapshot
Yachts sold (20m+): 5 publicly reported
New yachts listed: 4
New deliveries: None publicly reported this week
Market sentiment: Quiet holiday conditions transitioning into early-year momentum
Following a brief seasonal pause, market activity resumed quickly in the first week of January, with several transactions reported on 2 January and new inventory appearing across multiple size categories.
Yachts Sold
Five yacht sales above 20 metres were publicly reported during the period, with activity concentrated in the 25–40 metre range. Including:
- A 40m American-built motor yacht, recently refitted, highlighting continued demand for well-maintained classic platforms.
- A 40m flybridge motor yacht, from a leading US shipyard, reflecting strong interest in proven long-range cruisers.
- A 30m modern performance motor yacht, delivered in recent years and appealing to buyers seeking contemporary design and efficiency.
This segment continues to attract strong interest due to its versatility, manageable operating profile and suitability for both private ownership and charter use.
Recent transactions included yachts from established builders, with several vessels having undergone refits or upgrades prior to sale. While some final sale prices remain undisclosed, last asking prices indicate continued demand for quality yachts that are well-maintained and realistically positioned.
New Builds & Deliveries
None publicly reported.
Industry News
The New Year period in St Barths once again delivered exceptional exposure for the global super-yacht fleet. The concentration of large yachts over the festive window dominated trade and social media coverage, surpassing previous records for fleet size and visibility.
This level of exposure continues to support:
- Strong late-season charter demand
- Increased shoulder-season enquiries
- Ongoing interest from new charter clients inspired by festive-season coverage
Regional Market Overview
Mediterranean
Public market movement remained limited during the holiday period, with most activity expected to resume later in January as planning for the 2026 summer season accelerates.
Caribbean/US
The Caribbean remained the focal point of global activity, driven by festive-season charters and high-profile fleet gatherings.
Asia-Pacific
No notable fleet shifts reported this week.
Australia & New Zealand
NZ marine sector signalling a constructive 2026
Market Insights
2025 delivery recap highlights major tech advances (e.g., Feadship 119m Breakthrough’s hydrogen fuel cells capability)
St Barths NYE 2026: Major concentration of large yachts delivered high media visibility for the fleet over the holiday period.
2026 pipeline: multiple headline deliveries expected across Northern Europe and Italy.
Key Takeaways
As the industry moves further into January, attention is expected to shift toward:
- Mediterranean charter planning for summer 2026
- New-build deliveries and design launches
- Continued focus on sustainability, autonomy and explorer-style yachts
While the festive period traditionally brings a slowdown, early January activity suggests a constructive and measured start to 2026, with opportunities emerging for both charter clients and yacht owners planning ahead.
Complied: Mon, 5 Dec 2025, 5:11 AM (Australia/Sydney)
Sources: Megayacht News, YachtBuyer, SuperYacht Times, BOAT International