20. Inside the Market - Yacht Sales Insights & Trends for May 2026 - Berthon International Yacht ...

Inside the Market: Yacht Sales Insights & Trends for May 2026 | Berthon International Yacht Brokerage In this episode of Inside the Market, Hugh Rayner is joined by Ben Hitchen to discuss the latest trends, activity and observations from across the international yacht brokerage market. Drawing on conversations with Berthon's teams in the UK, Sweden, Spain and the USA, Hugh and Ben explore what they are seeing on the ground as the season gains momentum and buyers return to the market. After a quieter start to the year, May has brought a noticeably more positive tone. Viewings have increased, enquiry levels are improving, and there is growing activity across the core brokerage sector. However, buyers remain selective, with condition, presentation and realistic pricing continuing to play a critical role in determining which yachts attract serious interest. As Hugh explains, "there is a lot of really encouraging activity across our core brokerage space, but the boats still have to be well-presented yachts and realistically priced for the market." The discussion covers Berthon's Top 7 Yacht Sales Insights for May 2026, including: • The continued resilience of the brokerage market between €300,000 and €400,000 • Strong demand for quality cruising yachts such as Hallberg-Rassys, Sweden Yachts, Southerlys and smaller Oysters • Why good listings remain in short supply • The importance of realistic pricing and presentation • Increased viewings and buyer engagement during the latter part of the month • Activity levels across Scandinavia and the wider European market • The challenges currently facing larger yachts above 65 feet • How buyers are approaching value and condition in today's market Ben also shares his experience of increased demand for quality cruising yachts, noting that there remains "a decent amount of interest in the well-regarded quality boats" and that viewings, walk-ins and enquiries have all increased as the season progresses. The conversation explores how the market is rewarding owners who are realistic about pricing, while boats that are overpriced or poorly presented continue to struggle for attention. Hugh reflects on the impact of recent price adjustments, explaining that even small corrections have resulted in direct enquiries and renewed buyer interest. The episode also looks at regional differences, particularly the continued strength of the Scandinavian market, where healthy levels of activity, new listings and steady sales continue to provide positive signals. As the discussion concludes, both Hugh and Ben reflect on a market that feels more active than it did earlier in the spring. Serious buyers remain present, particularly in the core cruising yacht sector, but they are informed, selective and looking for genuine value. For yacht owners considering selling, buyers looking to enter the market, or anyone interested in the current state of international yacht brokerage, this episode provides a useful snapshot of what Berthon's brokers are seeing across the market in May 2026. Host: Hugh Rayner Guest: Ben Hitchen