Yacht Transport for Premium Vessels
Yacht transport ships luxury marine vessels over land between coasts, marinas, and seasonal destinations. Yachts present significant transport challenges. They are oversized in every dimension. They require specialized equipment, permits, and pilot escorts. Furthermore, yacht values demand careful handling and full insurance coverage.
At Xpress Auto Transport, we coordinate yacht shipping for owners, dealers, and brokerage operations nationwide. Whether moving a sport yacht for snowbird season or relocating a motoryacht across the country, we have the specialized network and expertise.
Yachts We Transport
Yacht transport spans many vessel types.
Sport Yachts
Express cruisers and sport yachts from 30 to 50 feet. Sea Ray Sundancer, Regal Commodore, Cruisers Yachts, Formula PC.
Motor Yachts
Larger pleasure motor yachts from 40 to 65 feet. Carver, Meridian, Marquis, Maritimo, Riviera.
Sport Fishing Yachts
Convertibles and sport fishermen from Hatteras, Viking, Bertram, Cabo, Tiara.
Sailing Yachts
Cruising sailboats from Beneteau, Jeanneau, Catalina, Hunter. Mast removal almost always required.
Yacht Transport Methods
Yachts require specialized transport equipment.
Hydraulic Trailer Transport
The premium method. Hydraulic trailers feature adjustable bunks that conform to the hull. This protects against pressure damage.
Specialized Lowboy Transport
Larger yachts ride on lowboy trailers with custom support structures. Lower deck height accommodates taller vessels.
Multi-Axle Transport
Heavy yachts require multi-axle trailers to distribute weight. Often 8 to 12 axles for the heaviest vessels.
How Much Does Yacht Shipping Cost?
- 30-35 ft yacht cross-country — $4,000 to $8,000.
- 35-45 ft yacht cross-country — $8,000 to $15,000.
- 45-55 ft yacht cross-country — $15,000 to $30,000.
- 55+ ft yacht cross-country — $30,000 to $60,000+.
- Permits and escorts — can add $5,000 to $15,000+.
Request a yacht shipping quote for your specific vessel. Yacht transport is custom-quoted based on dimensions and route.
Permits and Escorts
Yacht transport almost always involves permits and escorts. Below are typical requirements.
- Width over 12 ft — oversize permits required in every state.
- Height over 14 ft — route survey for bridge clearances.
- Pilot cars — front and rear escorts on most yacht moves.
- Police escorts — required in some states for largest vessels.
- Daylight restrictions — most yacht moves are daylight only.
Yacht transport is a logistics operation, not just a shipping job. Routes are surveyed in advance. Bridges are measured. Some yacht moves require months of planning.
Mast Removal and Tower Considerations
Sailing yachts almost always require mast removal. Tall powerboats with hardtops, towers, or arches need height analysis.
- Mast unstepping and separate shipping.
- Tower removal and reinstallation at destination.
- Outrigger removal for sport fishers.
- Antenna and radar dome lowering.
Insurance Coverage
Yacht transport requires significant insurance coverage. Standard cargo policies are often insufficient. We coordinate additional coverage when needed. Specifically, confirm cargo limits for your vessel's value, whether your marine insurance covers over-land transport, and gap coverage needs.
Preparing Your Yacht for Transport
- Drain all water systems and tanks.
- Disconnect batteries and shore power.
- Remove all loose interior items.
- Remove canvas, biminis, and exterior covers.
- Lower or remove tall structures.
- Strap down outboard engines.
- Document the yacht's condition with high-resolution photos.
Why Choose Xpress for Yacht Transport?
Yacht owners trust Xpress because we understand the stakes. Multi-million dollar vessels deserve specialized carriers and detailed coordination. Our network includes the heavy-haul specialists who handle yacht transport routinely. Furthermore, we manage permits, escorts, and route planning.