Who Buys a Charter or Marine Business
- Larger charter operatorWants more vessels, more departures and an existing customer flow.
- Captain turned ownerHolds the licenses to run the boats and wants a business already booked.
- Investor in marine businessesLooks for earnings that continue without the seller at the helm.
What the Buyer Is Paying For
Buyers value a marine business on cash flow after the owner is paid, then apply a multiple. Most Main Street businesses sell for about two to three times that figure.
Because vessels are expensive to keep up, buyers deduct a real amount for maintenance and replacement before they accept your depreciation add backs.
Vessels and Surveys
Expect requests for a recent survey, engine hours, haul out dates and repair history for each vessel. Whether a boat is included in the sale or stays with the seller is a big point in the contract.
Keep the records in one folder. Gaps look like deferred repairs.
Slips, Permits and Captains
A harbor slip, a commercial use permit or a required inspection can make or break a deal. These rights may not pass automatically to a buyer, so ask the issuing agency early. Do not assume.
Buyers also check who holds the captain licenses and whether those people will stay.
Seasons and Weather
Demand moves with visitors and with the water. Show a full year of departures and revenue, and explain how bad weather days are handled, so the buyer can price the average and not the best month.
Getting Ready
Gather surveys, insurance records, permits and a booking history by source. Check your landlord or harbor lease terms and read what a broker charges, then ask what your business is worth.