Small Party Yacht: Compact Luxury for Elite Parties
Why a Small Party Yacht Is the Ultimate Luxury Experience
We’re not just talking about a boat; we’re talking about a small party yacht that feels like a floating penthouse. Imagine a 39‑ft vessel that can outshine a 50‑ft luxury cruiser yet still fit into tight marinas. Think of it as a compact luxury yacht that packs a punch—speed, style, and space, all in one sleek package.
What Makes a Small Luxury Yacht Shine
A small luxury yacht typically measures under 40 ft overall. That size grants nimble handling, lower docking fees, and a tighter crew requirement. It also means owners can host intimate gatherings while still feeling the grandeur of high‑end design.
Top Models to Consider
We’ve narrowed the field to three standout vessels: Sunseeker Martinique 36, Azimut 37, and Riva 39. These models are known for their blend of performance and party‑ready features, such as DJ booths and LED dance floors.
| Model | New Purchase | Lease | Charter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunseeker Martinique 36 | $1.5 M–$2.0 M | $10 000–$12 000/month | $20 000–$25 000/charter |
| Azimut 37 | $1.2 M–$1.8 M | $9 000–$11 000/month | $18 000–$22 000/charter |
| Riva 39 | $1.8 M–$2.5 M | $11 000–$13 000/month | $22 000–$28 000/charter |
Ownership Snapshot
Owning a small party yacht means balancing cost and convenience. Docking fees hover between $30–$65 per day, crew costs range from 0–2 persons, and insurance sits at 0.4–1.7 % of value annually. Resale values stay healthy, with 60–75 % retention after five years.
Practical Buying Tips
- Attend boat shows to see models live and negotiate.
- Hire a marine broker who knows the niche market.
- Inspect thoroughly for engine hours and hull condition.
- Compare new vs. pre‑owned; certified used boats can save 15 %.
- Plan financing with builder‑partner lenders.
- Verify charter readiness if you aim to rent out.
Ready to make waves? Let’s dive deeper into how these vessels turn any outing into a headline‑making event.
What Exactly Is a Small Party Yacht?
What Exactly Is a Small Luxury Yacht?
A small luxury yacht is any vessel under 40 ft in overall length. That line marks the sweet spot where maneuverability and affordable ownership intersect. Picture a speedboat that also houses a living room, a bar, and a DJ booth.
These vessels, often called compact luxury yachts or small motor yachts for sale, blend performance with upscale amenities.
Key Characteristics
- Premium interiors: teak veneers, designer furnishings, 4K entertainment.
- High‑performance propulsion: 20–30 knots, twin‑engine setups.
- Crew‑friendly design: optional 2‑person crew, or single‑person operation for short trips.
- Flexible layout: ample storage, modular party spaces.
Why Size Matters
- Maneuverability: A 39‑ft hull cuts through waves like a knife through butter.
- Lower operating costs: Fuel, insurance, and docking fees drop dramatically.
- Easier marina access: Most marinas accept vessels under 40 ft without special permits.
Top Three Models
| Model | LOA (ft) | Engine | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunseeker Martinique 36 | 39 | Twin 400 hp | 1.8 M |
| Azimut 37 | 37 | Twin 350 hp | 1.5 M |
| Riva 39 | 39 | Twin 420 hp | 2.5 M |
Price Comparison
| Model | New Purchase | Lease (per month) | Charter (per day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunseeker Martinique 36 | 1,800,000 | 5,200 | 15,000 |
| Azimut 37 | 1,500,000 | 4,200 | 12,000 |
| Riva 39 | 2,500,000 | 6,000 | 18,000 |
Ownership Considerations
| Factor | Sunseeker Martinique 36 | Azimut 37 | Riva 39 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docking Fees | $30–$60/day | $25–$55/day | $35–$65/day |
| Crew | 2‑person | 2‑person | 3‑person |
| Insurance | 0.5–1.5 % | 0.4–1.2 % | 0.6–1.7 % |
| Resale (5 yrs) | 60–70 % | 65–75 % | 55–65 % |
Practical Buying Tips
- Attend boat shows – See models live and negotiate.
- Consult a marine broker – They spot hidden deals.
- Inspect engine hours – A low‑hour engine can save you 10 %.
- Consider certified pre‑owned – Up to 15 % off new models.
- Check charter standards – B‑SAS stabilizer and fire suppression are non‑negotiable.
These insights keep us ahead of the curve when we chase the next small party yacht.
Small Party Yacht Guide
Top Three Small Party Yachts to Consider
A small party yacht is a vessel under 40 ft that still feels like a floating penthouse. We’re drawn to the blend of speed, style, and space, and the price tag makes it a savvy luxury pick.
Why does size matter when you’re chasing a party‑ready yacht?
Sunseeker Martinique 36
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 39 ft (11.9 m) |
| Beam | 12.1 ft |
| Draft | 3.3 ft |
| Engine | 2 × 400 hp Cummins |
| Speed | 25 kn max |
| Layout | 2 cabins (4 beds), salon, galley, head |
| Luxury | Panoramic sun‑roof, DJ booth, 4K TV, Wi‑Fi |
| Price | $1.8 M new, $5.2 k/mon lease, $15 k/day charter |
Azimut 37
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 37.2 ft (11.3 m) |
| Beam | 11.7 ft |
| Draft | 3.0 ft |
| Engine | 2 × 350 hp MTU |
| Speed | 24 kn max |
| Layout | 2 cabins (4 beds), salon, galley, head |
| Luxury | 360° windows, espresso machine, retractable deck |
| Price | $1.5 M new, $4.2 k/mon lease, $12 k/day charter |
Riva 39
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 39.2 ft (11.95 m) |
| Beam | 12.0 ft |
| Draft | 3.3 ft |
| Engine | 2 × 420 hp Wärtsilä |
| Speed | 26 kn max |
| Layout | 2 cabins (4 beds), salon, galley, head |
| Luxury | Teak finish, dance floor, LED lighting |
| Price | $2.5 M new, $6 k/mon lease, $18 k/day charter |
| Model | New | Lease | Charter |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunseeker Martinique 36 | $1.8 M | $5.2 k | $15 k |
| Azimut 37 | $1.5 M | $4.2 k | $12 k |
| Riva 39 | $2.5 M | $6 k | $18 k |
| Model | 5‑yr Retain |
|---|---|
| Sunseeker | 60–70 % |
| Azimut | 65–75 % |
| Riva | 55–65 % |
On the water, the Riva edges the Sunseeker by 1 kn, while the Azimut’s lower draft glides faster in shallow coves. All three reach 20‑kn in under 15 seconds, making them party‑ready in a flash.
Picture an overnight soirée on the Azimut, where guests sip espresso while the sunset paints the horizon. The Sunseeker’s DJ booth turns a short cruise into a full‑scale club. The Riva’s LED dance floor makes a 39‑ft vessel feel like a floating ballroom. Each model shines in its niche, whether you crave speed, deck space, or interior flair for a party.
Maintenance stays with annual costs hovering around 3–4 % of purchase price, keeping ownership affordable. Future resale remains strong and resale prospects.
Docking fees for a 40‑ft yacht typically range from $200 to $500 per day, depending on the marina. Crew requirements vary; a professional skipper and a deckhand are common for long‑haul trips, while a single owner can manage a short‑term charter with a hired helmsman. Resale value is influenced by brand reputation and condition; all three models retain 55–75 % of their original price after five years.
Small Party Yacht Buying Tips
- Attend local boat shows to see models up close and negotiate pricing.
- Consult a marine broker for personalized options and financing plans.
- Verify insurance coverage for high‑speed performance and party amenities.
- Consider a pre‑purchase inspection to assess maintenance history.
- Explore charter markets to gauge rental demand before buying.
Whether you’re searching for a compact luxury yacht or a small motor yacht for sale, these models offer unparalleled performance and lifestyle appeal.
Small Party Yacht: Price Breakdown – New, Lease, and Charter Rates
When we talk about a small party yacht, we’re referring to a compact luxury vessel that feels like a floating penthouse yet still slips into tight marinas. Usually 30–40 ft long, these boats are easier to maneuver, cost less to dock, and give owners and charterers a more affordable entry point. They’re often called small motor yachts for sale because they pair high‑performance engines with upscale amenities. Owners love the mix of speed and luxury, making them perfect for weekend getaways or high‑end events in the region.
Models
- Sunseeker Martinique 36 – 36 ft, 3× 300 hp engines, 4‑cabine layout, panoramic LED cinema, B‑SAS stabilizers.
- Azimut 37 – 37 ft, 2× 400 hp engines, 3‑cabine layout, 4‑K LED cinema, fire suppression system.
- Riva 39 – 39 ft, 2× 600 hp engines, 4‑cabine layout, 4‑K LED cinema, high‑speed stabilizers.
Price Comparison
| Model | New Purchase (USD) | Lease (USD/month) | Charter (USD/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunseeker Martinique 36 | 1,800,000 | 5,200 | 15,000 |
| Azimut 37 | 1,500,000 | 4,200 | 12,000 |
| Riva 39 | 2,500,000 | 6,000 | 18,000 |
The pattern is obvious: bigger, more luxurious models come with higher upfront costs and higher charter rates.
Ownership Costs
Docking fees run from $30–$60 per day. Insurance sits at 0.5–1.5 % of the vessel’s value annually. Maintenance usually takes up 3–5 % of the purchase price each year, and hiring a two‑person crew adds another 1–2 % to the budget.
Financing & Market Conditions
A 5‑year loan at 4.5 % APR spreads the purchase into manageable monthly payments, while chartering keeps the initial outlay lower. In high‑season markets, charter rates can climb 15–20 %, boosting potential income for owners who choose to charter.
Resale Value
Small party yachts hold their value better than larger vessels because they stay in demand for short‑term events. A well‑maintained 5‑year‑old Sunseeker can fetch 70 % of its original price, whereas a 5‑year‑old 55‑ft cruiser might only get 50 %.
Buying Tips
- Attend boat shows or talk to a marine broker for personalized options.
- Look for built‑in B‑SAS stabilizers, fire suppression systems, and a 4‑K LED cinema—features that lift charter fees.
- When negotiating a lease, ask for a “break‑even” clause that caps total lease payments at 80 % of the purchase price.
- Shop around for marine‑specific lenders; they often offer lower rates than traditional banks.
Compare the three models side‑by‑side, calculate your total cost of ownership, and negotiate a lease or purchase that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Whether you’re dreaming of a quick escape or a longer journey.
Your perfect yacht is ready to set sail.