You don’t need a million-dollar budget to own a show-stopping yacht. In fact, some of the most capable, stylish, and charter-ready vessels on the market can be found for under $500,000 — if you know where to look.
At Yachtmann.com, we specialize in connecting discerning buyers with high-value yachts that don’t just look good at the dock — they perform on the water, and many of them are prime candidates for charter income or weekend adventures.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned owner looking to expand your fleet, here are some of the best yachts under $500,000 currently on the market.
1. Clarity – 2017 41′ Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40 – Click Here to Learn More!
Asking Price: $440,000
Length: 41′
Cabins: 3
Location: Florida, USA
When it comes to catamarans, the Lucia 40 is in a class of its own — and Clarity is no exception. This 2017 Fountaine Pajot is the rare Owner’s Version layout, offering three spacious cabins and two full bathrooms. Whether you plan to charter or cruise with family, the volume and natural light make life aboard feel like a floating condo.
The helm station is designed for solo sailing, while the wide-open saloon and cockpit offer seamless indoor-outdoor living. Powered by twin Yanmar 30HP engines with low hours, this yacht is ready to go.
If you’re looking for a yacht under $500K that can serve as both a home on the water and a potential income-producing asset — Clarity should be at the top of your list.
2. Amour – 2017 34′ Beneteau Swift Trawler – Click Here to Learn More!
Asking Price: $364,000
Length: 34′
Cabins: 2
Location: Florida, USA
Compact, elegant, and built for real cruising, Amour is a standout in the small trawler category. With timeless French design from Beneteau and a practical layout that includes two cabins, a spacious flybridge, and generous storage, this boat punches well above its size class.
The bow and stern thrusters make docking a breeze, and the generator and air conditioning offer full comfort even at anchor. This is a “like new” yacht with the versatility to weekend, loop the East Coast, or offer premium day charters.
Whether you’re downsizing or just getting started, Amour delivers luxury trawler life without the million-dollar price tag.
3. Silver Fox – 2007 42′ Henriques Sportfisherman – Click Here to Learn More!
Asking Price: $369,000
Length: 42′
Cabins: 2
Location: Key West, FL
For anglers, Silver Fox is a beast. This 42’ Henriques SportFish is purpose-built for offshore fishing, with a huge cockpit, tuna tower, outriggers, bait station, and all the gear serious fishermen demand.
But she’s not just brawn. Inside, you’ll find a two-cabin layout, a full galley, and enough comfort to keep guests happy on multi-day trips. The twin diesels offer power and reliability, and with her Key West location, this vessel is already positioned for high-dollar charter fishing.
Want a yacht that works as hard as you do? Silver Fox offers one of the best combinations of charter potential and open water performance for under $400K.
4. NO TIME – 2015 37′ Sea Ray Sundancer – Click Here to Learn More!
Asking Price: $299,000
Length: 37′
Cabins: 1
Location: Florida, USA
Fast, sleek, and made for fun, NO TIME is the perfect express cruiser for weekenders who don’t want to compromise on style or comfort. Sea Ray’s Sundancer line is known for its signature curves, powerful performance, and upscale interior — and this 2015 model is no exception.
Below deck, a plush saloon converts to a sleeping area, while the cockpit above features wrap-around seating, a wet bar, and room to entertain. With joystick docking, twin engines, and premium stereo and lighting systems, this is an ideal yacht for couples, small families, or anyone who wants to turn heads at the marina.
At under $300K, NO TIME proves that you don’t need to break the bank to cruise in style.
5. Sorellina – 1985 58′ Hatteras Motor Yacht – Click Here to Learn More!
Asking Price: $475,000
Length: 58′
Cabins: 3
Location: Florida, USA
If you want maximum space for your dollar, Sorellina is a dream. This classic 58’ Hatteras is a floating apartment — with three large staterooms, a full-size galley, walk-around engine room, and multiple salons and entertaining areas.
She’s been meticulously cared for, with tasteful upgrades that honor her pedigree while bringing her into the modern era. Perfect for liveaboards or as a floating vacation home, Sorellina offers old-school build quality and big-yacht feel, all for under $500K.
And with some creative retrofitting, she could easily become a one-of-a-kind charter destination.
Choosing the Right Yacht Under $500K
When shopping under $500,000, here are a few key tips to get the most for your investment:
- Think Utility: Are you buying to live aboard, weekend cruise, or charter? Pick a layout and hull type that fits.
- Prioritize Condition: Older boats can offer incredible value — if they’ve been well maintained.
- Factor in Location: Buying a Florida-based yacht gives you access to year-round boating and built-in charter demand.
- Get a Broker You Trust: A good broker will help you spot hidden gems, negotiate smartly, and avoid costly surprises.
Want Help Buying the Right Yacht?
At Yachtmann, we don’t just sell boats — we help you build a lifestyle. Whether you’re buying your first yacht or adding a new asset to your portfolio, our team helps you:
- Evaluate vessels for personal or charter use
- Structure purchases under an LLC if needed
- Handle registration, surveys, and insurance
- Set up management or turnkey charter operations
With listings like Clarity, Silver Fox, Amour, and more, there’s no better place to shop for high-quality yachts under $500,000.
What to Look for in a Yacht Under $500,000
Before you fall in love with the teak decks or panoramic saloon windows, make sure you’re evaluating yachts with the right set of criteria. Here’s what experienced yacht buyers — and brokers at Yachtmann — consider essential at this price point:
1. Purpose and Lifestyle Fit
Ask yourself: What will I use this yacht for most?
- If it’s for weekend cruising with family, focus on comfort, ease of docking, and a user-friendly layout.
- If you’re eyeing charter potential, prioritize cabin count, guest separation, and outdoor entertaining areas.
- If it’s a long-range cruiser or liveaboard option, fuel efficiency, storage, and mechanical access become key.
2. Mechanical Condition and Maintenance History
In the sub-$500K range, many yachts may be older, but well cared for. Look for:
- Detailed service records
- Rebuilt or low-hour engines
- Updated navigation equipment and electronics
- Recently replaced batteries, pumps, and through-hulls
Yachts that look good but lack service history can end up costing far more in the long run.
3. Charter Viability (If You Want to Offset Costs)
A yacht doesn’t have to sit idle. If you’re considering chartering your vessel:
- Check for Coast Guard compliance or charter certifications
- Pick a location with strong charter demand (like Florida or the Bahamas)
- Choose a vessel with flexible sleeping arrangements and day-use appeal
Brokers like Yachtmann can even help you structure your purchase and charter management to make it seamless.
4. Build Quality and Brand Reputation
Not all hulls are created equal. Stick to reputable builders with proven designs and resale value. In this article alone, we featured trusted names like:
- Beneteau (trawlers and cruisers)
- Fountaine Pajot (catamarans)
- Hatteras (motor yachts)
- Sea Ray (sport cruisers)
- Henriques (fishing yachts)
These builders hold value, have wide service networks, and are easy to insure.
5. Layout and Liveability
Don’t underestimate comfort. Walk through the yacht. Sit in the saloon. Lie in the berth.
- Are the cabins ventilated?
- Can you stand comfortably in the shower?
- Is the galley usable or just aesthetic?
Yacht ownership isn’t just about looks — it’s about how it feels to spend time aboard.
Luxury Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune
Yachts have a reputation for being out of reach, reserved for billionaires or celebrities. But the truth is, with the right broker and a smart eye, you can own a yacht that turns heads and creates unforgettable experiences for under $500,000.
From sleek express cruisers like NO TIME, to family-ready catamarans like Clarity, to rugged offshore vessels like Silver Fox — the market is full of incredible opportunities right now.
Whether you’re buying to relax, explore, entertain, or even build a charter business — the right yacht is waiting for you. And with experts like the team at Yachtmann by your side, the process can be smooth, strategic, and even profitable.
Ready to Take the Helm?
Let us help you find the perfect yacht under $500K. Whether you’re just browsing or ready to buy, Yachtmann’s team of seasoned brokers will walk you through every step — from viewings to closing.
📞 Call us at (855) 4UR-BOAT
🌐 Explore more at www.yachtmann.com
And if you’re thinking bigger — wondering how you might turn your yacht into a profitable business — we invite you to join our free Yacht As A Business webinar. You’ll learn exactly how to buy smart, structure it properly, and build income while living the yacht life.
