The superyacht sales market has remained relatively steady through the first three quarters of 2026, with 254 yachts sold year to date, just 4% below the same period in 2025. That overall figure reflects a year of contrasting quarters, with Q1 outperforming both 2025 and 2024 before activity softened in Q2.
The second quarter was the weakest Q2 since 2020, but activity showed signs of improvement through the summer, including a modest recovery in August. Taken as a whole, the year-to-date market remains close to last year’s levels, despite a slower middle part of the year.
Softer 30–40m activity weighs on headline volumes
The modest decline in total sales has been driven largely by the 30–40m segment, which remains the biggest part of the market by transaction volume. Sales in this category are around 17% below the same period in 2025, meaning its performance has had a considerable influence on the overall market figures.
This is an important distinction when looking at the market as a whole. The 4% year-to-date decline is not being seen consistently across all size categories, but is concentrated primarily within the 30–40m sector.
The 40m+ market continues to outperform
Above 40m, activity remains notably strong. Sales in the 40m+ market are almost 20% ahead of the same period in 2025, demonstrating continued demand for larger yachts and providing a clear counterpoint to the softer activity seen lower down the size range.
The availability of quality inventory remains an important factor across the market, with the number of new yachts coming to market down 15% year on year. Demand for high-quality yachts remains strong across all size segments, while in the 60–120m sector in particular, the number of compelling opportunities remains limited.
That strength is reflected in Edmiston’s recent activity, including the sale of the 67m Feadship HAMPSHIRE and confidential transactions above 75m and 100m. Where the right yacht is not openly available, our brokers look beyond the public market to find it, as demonstrated by a recent 75m+ transaction involving a yacht that was not publicly for sale.
Recently delivered yachts are proving especially attractive. Sales of yachts less than five years old on the brokerage market are up 23% this year, with Edmiston’s sale of VIRTUOSITY providing a strong example. She sold in just 255 days, less than half the market average.
Monaco Yacht Show brings Q3 to a close
September saw Edmiston present its largest-ever line-up at the Monaco Yacht Show, with a particularly strong presence across the charter fleet. Among the highlights were three newly delivered yachts making their MYS debuts: the 102m Lürssen NIXIE, 88m Turquoise Yachts ANGELIQUE and 72m Sanlorenzo SILVER FOX.
Edmiston’s continued activity in new construction was also evident at MYS, where we announced the sale of a 57m Benetti project currently in build.
Looking ahead to Q4
Edmiston enters Q4 with a strong line-up of sales opportunities, beginning with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. IDOL, DOMANI and RULE NO.1 will be among the yachts on display, offering buyers the chance to step on board a selection of standout yachts currently available through Edmiston.
Whether you are considering selling your yacht or looking to acquire your next, speak to Edmiston for expert market insight and access to the right opportunities.