In Fraser’s latest contribution to Yacht Style, CEO Raphael Sauleau commented on the remarkable record-setting year of 2020, which not only witnessed a spectacular recovery from the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic but produced record sales in various sectors and parts of the world.
“Last year, more people turned to yachting than in any other year since records began,” Sauleau said. “In the recreational pleasure craft market, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) recorded US boat sales reaching a 13-year high. This trend was also reflected in the 24m-plus sector, which recorded the most yachts sold and the greatest total value of yachts sold since records began in 2009.”
The number of superyacht sales was up 18.2% on 2019 and 2.9% on 2018 – the sector’s previous best year – and almost 40% higher than the average for the past 12 years, according to data supplied by Fraser. The total value of sales was up 15% on 2019, 1.6% on 2018 and 32.8% on the 12-year average.
“As the data shows, the 24-50m segment showed a strong increase, with many first-time buyers finally committing to enjoying the benefits of ownership last year,” Sauleau continued.
“The global trends were reflected in Fraser’s internal performance. Fraser brokers closed more sales for their clients than the previous best year (2017). In fact, sales in the last two years have seen the company outperform its 12-year average both in total value of yachts sold (up 45%) and the average asking price of yachts sold (up 40%).