Donating your yacht allows you to avoid the hassles of selling, including negotiations, buyer back-outs, and lengthy listings. The tax benefit from donating is often based on the yacht’s replacement value, which can be significantly higher than the market value in a buyer’s market.
You also avoid ongoing carrying costs, such as maintenance and docking fees, and the donation process is completed quickly—typically in less than 30 days.

Yes, foreign-flagged yachts can be donated as well. However, additional documentation may be required to ensure compliance with both U.S. and international regulations. Our team is experienced in handling foreign-flagged donations and will guide you through the process to make sure everything is managed smoothly and in accordance with IRS requirements.

While buying and selling dominate the yacht market, there’s another option that often gets overlooked: donating. Initially, it might not sound appealing after investing so much into your dream yacht, however donating offers twofold benefits: the charity receives a valuable asset for fundraising, and you receive a significant tax deduction while supporting a meaningful cause.

Many charities, especially in South Florida, accept yacht donations for causes ranging from marine preservation to children’s services. The key is finding a charity with the proper infrastructure to manage boat donations, as it can be a complex process. Some organizations offer a tax write-off based on the yacht’s current market value, but we recommend working with charities that hold title for a lease-to-own period of three years. During this time, they must make ‘significant capital improvements’ (around 5-10% of the boat’s value) to meet IRS regulations, allowing you to claim a deduction based on the full appraised value of your yacht.

Almost any boat can be a great candidate for donation. However, yachts that are unique or have had significant investments but are difficult to sell are ideal. In many cases, after necessary improvements, the appraised value for your tax write-off could be higher than what the boat would sell for in the current market.

The first step is to hire a certified surveyor to appraise the yacht. Next, you’ll want to work with someone experienced, like South Florida Yacht Donation, to connect with reputable charities that have a strong track record in handling yacht donations. Avoid working with organizations without a clear process. Once the right charity is selected — by you or with our assistance — and all parties agree that the yacht is a good fit, the paperwork can be finalized within a week. After that, you’re free of insurance, dock fees, crew salaries, and other costs. It’s a quick and straightforward option, which appeals to many yacht owners.

The primary benefit is the tax deduction, but the process is also far less stressful. Selling a yacht can take months or even years, with ongoing maintenance and carrying costs. In contrast, donations can be completed on your schedule. For instance, we’ve had clients who needed to finalize a donation by year-end but we have completed the process in record time. Another advantage is that donated yachts aren’t subject to pre-purchase surveys, which can often lead to further negotiations in traditional sales.

You can claim a deduction equal to the appraisal value of your vessel. In general, the contribution base for determining the maximum amount you may deduct in a particular year is your gross income. Charitable gifts to a qualified tax-exempt organization may enable you to claim charitable deductions in an amount up to 50% of your contribution base.

Yes, you can buy from a nonprofit. Charities that receive donated yachts and make capital improvements typically lease them to generate revenue for their mission. The terms are usually favorable, with one-third down, one-third in installments, and a final balloon payment—essentially zero-percent financing. Because the IRS mandates improvements, you’re getting a yacht with recent investments. Plus, since you’re buying from a charity rather than a private owner, it’s a more straightforward transaction, free of emotional ties, leading to easier negotiations both upfront and post-survey.

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South Florida Yacht Donation charges nothing for our services. However, if a survey or appraisal is required for tax purposes, you will be responsible for covering that expense. The good news is that these costs are generally tax-deductible. We manage all other aspects of the donation process, including paperwork, title transfer, and transport.

When you donate your yacht to a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit, you may be eligible for a tax deduction. This deduction is often based on the replacement value of the yacht rather than the market value, which means a higher potential write-off. You can typically offset up to 50% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), and if the deduction exceeds this, it can be carried forward for up to five years.

The yacht donation process typically takes less than 30 days from start to finish. Our team handles all aspects of the transfer, including paperwork, surveys, appraisals, and title transfers, to ensure a smooth, efficient transition.

Yes, donating a yacht after a recent loss can be a thoughtful solution, providing a quick and hassle-free way to handle the vessel without the stress of selling. We manage every step—from paperwork to title transfer—so you can focus on what matters most. Our team is here to guide you through the process with sensitivity and professionalism, helping you honor the vessel’s legacy while supporting a meaningful cause.

No, your yacht can be donated in its current, “as-is” condition. The receiving charity will accept the vessel without requiring any repairs or upgrades, saving you time and expense.

We work with certified appraisers experienced in yacht donations who assess your yacht’s replacement value, which often provides a greater tax benefit than the market value. The appraisal report will document the value, which you can use for IRS purposes.

Yes, most types of yachts and large boats can be donated, including motor yachts, and sport-fishing boats. Contact us to discuss the specifics of your vessel and ensure it meets the requirements for a 501(c)(3) donation.

No, once the yacht donation process is completed, you are no longer responsible for insurance, maintenance, docking fees, or any other expenses. The charity takes over ownership and any associated costs immediately upon transfer.

Yes, especially in today’s buyer’s market. Yacht prices are declining, and holding costs are increasing, making donation a smart financial decision. By donating, you lock in a higher potential tax deduction based on the replacement value, rather than dealing with fluctuating market values or selling-related expenses.

We work exclusively with registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits that focus on marine conservation, oceanographic research, education, and environmental protection. Your donation will directly support meaningful, impactful causes.

Absolutely. In addition to managing yacht donations, we can assist you with finding your next yacht. Our network of brokers is ready to help you identify the ideal vessel for your needs and manage the purchase process smoothly.

After the yacht is donated, the nonprofit will often use it to support their operations or may lease it to raise funds for their mission. Regardless, your yacht will contribute to a positive impact in line with the organization’s goals.

Simply reach out to us through our contact page or call us directly. We’ll guide you through the initial steps, discuss the donation process in detail, and answer any questions you may have. Once you’re ready, we’ll manage the rest for a seamless and beneficial donation experience.