About the 2012 PowerBoat Guide
The 2012 PowerBoat Guide is the latest edition of what has become one of the best-selling publications in the marine industry. First published in 1989, the PowerBoat Guide was originally conceived as a reference handbook for yacht brokers and dealers. Within a few short years, however, the book found it’s way into the public domain, and it has been an invaluable resource for hundreds — perhaps thousands — of boat buyers ever since. Produced by experienced yacht brokers, the PowerBoat Guide has stood the test of time with marine industry professionals across the country.
In making the selections for this year’s edition, the editors have endeavored to include those boats of the greatest potential interest to our readers. No effort has been made to include all models from any manufacturer, and there are many builders whose products we have not featured at all. Because we don’t charge manufacturers to include their products in the PowerBoat Guide, we are able to make our selections without any outside pressure.
For ease of use, the book is divided into three sections: Motoryachts & Trawlers; Sportfishermen; and Cruisers & Sedans. Models featured in each section are sorted by manufacturer name first, and then by size. Note that there are occasions where the same boat appears in two different sections — some models simply resist categorization. In general, however, the sections are tightly drawn and easy to navigate.
Pricing Information
Retail high-low values are provided for models built after 1995. In the case of new or limited production models, we may choose not to offer price estimates due to lack of resale activity. The prices quoted in this book reflect the market conditions projected by our staff for the 2012 model year, a difficult task indeed considering the uncertainty of today’s boating market.
Just as it is with cars, RVs, and homes, you get what you pay for. High-end yachts are nearly always the leaders when it comes to resale value. Trawlers and motoryachts — especially those from quality manufacturers — typically retain roughly 50% of their original purchase price after five years of ownership. Very high-end trawlers may retain 70–80% of their original value after five years if they’re well equipped and maintained.
Lastly, the prices in the PowerBoat Guide are provided as rough estimates only. They are meant to be used as a starting point in determining a boat’s actual value in a given market. Do not take them too literally.