The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Luxury Yacht: Top Brokerages for Discerning Buyers

Kenneth Meechai
Written by
Kenneth Meechai
Alex Volkmann
Reviewed by
Alex Volkmann
Last edited: Aug 7, 2026

Buying a luxury yacht is more than a transaction—it's an entry into a lifestyle of freedom and sophistication. Whether you're seeking a pre-owned superyacht or a custom new build, the right brokerage makes all the difference. We've analyzed the top

The Luxury Yacht Market in 2026

The global luxury yacht market continues to thrive, with demand for both motor and sailing yachts remaining strong. Buyers are increasingly looking for vessels that combine performance with opulent amenities, and brokerages are responding with curated listings and personalized service. From West Palm Beach to Monaco, the industry is built on trust, expertise, and access to off-market deals. This roundup highlights the brokerages that consistently deliver for high-net-worth individuals.

How We Ranked the Top Brokerages

We evaluated each brokerage on three key criteria: global inventory access, broker expertise and track record, and the quality of the buying experience. We also considered client reviews, industry reputation, and the ability to handle complex transactions. The result is a list of firms that excel in helping you find your perfect yacht.

Here's a quick look at the top five luxury yacht brokerages, ranked from 5 to 1. Each offers a unique approach to buying a yacht, from boutique personal service to global mega-brokerage reach.

ProviderBest For
IYCGlobal access and top-tier sales volume
BurgessHigh-value superyacht acquisitions
Northrop & JohnsonBoutique service with vast inventory
Moran YachtsExperienced, full-service superyacht brokerage
The "Endeavor"Direct, single-vessel luxury purchase

Deep Dive: The Top 5 Luxury Yacht Brokerages

#1 IYC

Screenshot of IYC website A screenshot of the IYC website.

IYC consistently ranks among the top three brokerage firms in superyacht sales globally, with over $3 billion in sales across 280 yachts in the past five years. Their team of expert yacht sales consultants covers all types and size segments, from pre-owned to new builds. IYC has access to all yachts on the market globally, including off-market deals, thanks to their intelligence team. They are committed to making the buying experience effortless from start to finish, pairing the right yacht with the right owner.

#2 Burgess

Screenshot of Burgess website A screenshot of the Burgess website.

Burgess is a premier name in luxury superyacht sales, offering a sophisticated platform to browse yachts for sale. Their website features detailed filters by builder, length, price, and more, with 56 yachts currently listed, including the 115m PELORUS. They emphasize a life spent wisely, guiding clients through the purchase of both motor and sailing yachts. With a strong global presence, Burgess is known for handling high-value transactions with discretion and expertise.

#3 Northrop & Johnson

Screenshot of Northrop & Johnson website A screenshot of the Northrop & Johnson website.

Northrop & Johnson is the world's number-one boutique yacht brokerage, offering over 1,000 yachts for sale worldwide. They provide exclusive access to thousands of luxury boats not publicly listed, with expert broker support throughout your purchase journey. Their range covers everything from power boats to sailing yachts, and they feature a YouTube channel with on-water tours. Whether you want a modern superyacht or a classic sailing vessel, their team is dedicated to helping you find your perfect boat.

#4 Moran Yachts

Screenshot of Moran Yachts website A screenshot of the Moran Yachts website.

Moran Yachts offers an expertly curated selection of superyachts for sale worldwide, from performance motor yachts to full-displacement mega yachts. With 38 years in the industry and over 500 superyacht transactions completed, their brokers have firsthand knowledge to match you with the right vessel. Their global reach provides access to off-market opportunities and pricing intelligence that a single-region broker can't match. From initial shortlisting through survey, they guide you through every step.

#5 The "Endeavor"

Screenshot of The "Endeavor" website A screenshot of the The "Endeavor" website.

The 'Endeavor' is a luxury yacht for sale in West Palm Beach, Florida, marketed through a dedicated broker, Rhett Bailey. This vessel is described as a testament to luxury and performance, with sophisticated design, luxurious amenities, and expansive spaces. The website offers a video tour showcasing its decks and interiors, appealing to discerning individuals seeking unmatched luxury. While it represents a single listing rather than a full brokerage, it provides a direct, personalized buying experience. For those specifically interested in this yacht, it's a focused option with direct access to the broker.

How to Choose the Right Yacht Brokerage

Start by defining your priorities: do you want a specific yacht like the 'Endeavor', or are you open to exploring a wide range? If you value personalized, direct service, a single-listing broker might work. For maximum choice and global inventory, go with a top-tier firm like IYC or Burgess. Consider the broker's track record, industry reputation, and whether they offer additional services like charter management or new construction. Always request a consultation to gauge their expertise and fit with your needs.

To simplify your search, set up automated alerts on brokerage websites for new listings matching your criteria—length, price, builder. Use their filtering tools to narrow results, and save searches to receive email updates. Many brokerages also offer virtual tours and video walkthroughs, allowing you to shortlist vessels without traveling. Combine these tools with direct broker outreach for off-market opportunities.

Your Next Step Toward Yacht Ownership

The luxury yacht market offers incredible opportunities, whether you're drawn to a specific vessel like the 'Endeavor' or exploring the global inventory of a powerhouse like IYC. Each brokerage on this list brings unique strengths, from boutique service to unmatched market access. Take the time to research, ask questions, and work with a broker who understands your vision. Your dream yacht is out there—start your journey today.

Kenneth Meechai

About the Author

A writer and marketer for over a decade, Kenneth Meechai loves digging deep to find hidden gems on the web. When he's not online, he's usually walking his dogs.