When most people hear the word yacht, they imagine celebrities sipping champagne in Monaco or tech billionaires with crews of 20 at their beck and call. While that image is fun, it doesn’t represent the reality for most yacht owners—especially here in San Diego.
At Infinity Yacht Sales, we talk to new buyers every week who are surprised at how accessible and versatile yacht ownership can actually be. To clear up some misconceptions, let’s tackle a few of the biggest myths we hear about yachting.
Myth 1: Yachts Are Only for the Ultra-Rich
Fact: Not true. While some yachts certainly fall into the “mega-luxury” category, many are surprisingly affordable. You can find quality entry-level yachts and cruisers in the $50,000–$150,000 range—comparable to the cost of a new luxury SUV or RV. Financing options also make ownership accessible to more people than you’d expect.
Myth 2: Owning a Yacht Means Huge Upkeep Costs
Fact: Maintenance costs vary depending on size, use, and storage, but they don’t have to break the bank. San Diego offers a wide variety of marinas, slips, and service providers, making it easier to budget smartly. Many owners offset costs by using their yacht as a weekend getaway instead of spending on vacation rentals or hotels.
Myth 3: You Need a Full Crew to Operate a Yacht
Fact: Most yachts under 60 feet can be easily handled by just one or two people, especially with modern bow thrusters, joystick controls, and updated navigation technology. In fact, many of our clients enjoy the independence of captaining their own vessel.
Myth 4: Yachting Is Only About Luxury Cruising
Fact: San Diego yacht owners use their vessels for everything from fishing trips to Catalina runs, dock-and-dine dinners, family weekends in Mission Bay, or even as liveaboard homes. A yacht isn’t just a “luxury toy”—for many, it’s a lifestyle centerpiece.
Myth 5: Selling a Yacht Takes Forever
Fact: With the right marketing and brokerage team, yachts can sell faster than you might think. In today’s market, well-maintained vessels that are priced correctly often move quickly, especially in a city like San Diego, where demand for boating is strong year-round.
Final Thoughts
Yacht ownership isn’t as out of reach as many people believe. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape, a family adventure hub, or your dream retirement lifestyle, there’s likely a yacht that fits your budget and goals.
If you’ve been on the fence about buying or selling, don’t let the myths hold you back. At Infinity Yacht Sales, we’re here to answer questions, guide you through the process, and help you discover just how rewarding the yachting lifestyle can be.
