Performance cruising yacht under sail. Photograph by Paul Wyeth

Image Credit : Paul Wyeth

Selling your yacht

Selling a yacht is a significant decision. Whether you are moving to your next boat or bringing a chapter of ownership to a close, Mainsail provides a personal brokerage service designed to make the process straightforward, transparent and professionally managed.

From market appraisal through to successful completion, you will deal directly with an experienced sailor who understands the market, communicates clearly and is committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you and your yacht.

Professional standards. Clear contracts. Protected client funds

Mainsail is a member of British Marine and operates in accordance with its Code of Practice. We use recognised marine industry contracts and maintain a designated client account for brokerage client funds, providing buyers and sellers with a clear and professionally managed route through every transaction.

Brokerage fees

Mainsail operates on a no sale, no commission basis. There are no upfront brokerage or listing fees.

Our commission is calculated progressively against the final selling price:

Progressive brokerage commission by portion of the selling price. Rates exclude VAT.
Portion of the selling price Rate
First £95,0005%
Next £100,0004%
Balance above £195,0003%
Minimum commission £4,500 + VAT

Clear fees. No upfront charge. No sale, no commission.

This banded approach reflects the fact that the work involved in professionally preparing and selling a yacht does not increase proportionately with its value. It provides a fair and transparent fee for owners, with the effective percentage reducing as yacht value increases.

All fees are subject to VAT at the prevailing rate.

Yacht Excalibur sailing

The Mainsail Brokerage Journey

A structured process so every stage of the sale is carefully managed, from first enquiry to handover.

  1. 01

    Initial Enquiry

    Tell us about your yacht and your plans.

  2. 02

    Market Appraisal

    An informed valuation and recommended sales strategy.

  3. 03

    Consultation

    Agree the marketing approach and timescale, and appoint Mainsail.

  4. 04

    Listing Preparation

    Specifications, photography and the sales listing.

  5. 05

    Marketing

    Promotion through Mainsail and global brokerage channels.

  6. 06

    Buyer Management

    Enquiries, viewings, feedback and regular updates.

  7. 07

    Negotiation

    Receiving and negotiating offers, agreeing terms.

  8. 08

    Completion

    Contracts, survey, sea trial where needed, funds and handover.