Poland is one of the major boat manufacturers in Europe. Our yachts and motorboats enjoy a good reputation not only in Poland, but across the whole Europe. What is more, the number of Polish customers is consistently growing.
After the Poland’s systemic transformation in 1989, the boatbuilding industry developed rapidly and Polish boats gained reputation and acknowledgment across the globe. One of the most significant changes took place in 2009, when the number of yachts registered in Poland increased fourfold, as compared to 2005. This unwavering enthusiasm is also proven by a constant interest for trade fairs and industry conferences. Sales of Polish yachts reached nearly PLN 127 milion.
More than 6,000 a year – this is how many top-class boats leave Polish production halls and come into market. Even though the major part of Polish shipyards’ products is destined for export, 5% of them remains within the country. It is an important segment of the market, being one of the 15 strategic industries supported by the Ministry of Economy.
Poles become richer. As their budgets grow, so does their appetite for luxury goods and all the most affluent people are more and more often willing to purchase a yacht.
The luxury boats market in Poland is double as exclusive. Firstly, just as everywhere else, to purchase a boat means to accept the substantial costs. Secondly, taking under consideration various factors, such as climate or geographical reality, having a yacht in Poland involves covering high transportation costs, not uncommonly across the border. In both cases economic factors and financial capacities are crucial.
The purchase cost of a top-class boat equals at least PLN 250,000. It is also worth mentioning, that this sum will not be the only expense. It appears, that in the long term it is the maintenance that absorbs the most significant amount of funds – it can reach PLN 7,000 a year.
Millionaires’ yachts are not only mood-improving gadgets, but also business trademarks. If someone could afford to buy a yacht longer than 60m, his business must have achieved a global dimension.
It appears, that the group dominated by Arab sheikhs, American billionaires and Russian oligarchs consists of Poles as well. It is Jan Kulczyk, whose 90m yacht Phoenix2 was classified as the 40th biggest private boat in the world. The competition also has its own dimension. According to the German Lurssen shipyard, the Kulczyk’s yacht measured originally only 87m. Shortly after launch, the shipowner is said to have ordered a few meter long Phoenix statue.
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Hypothetical maintenance and operational costs:
Harbour charges – PLN 800 to 3,5000 (or more)
Winterizing costs – PLN 200-300 (outdoor storage) – to PLN 1,500 (indoor)
Fuel costs (2 hours) – PLN 275 (with a fuel consumption of 25 litres per hour)
Annual insurance – from PLN 2,000 (for a yacht worth about PLN 200,000)