Many of our customers like to buy boats made in America, but recently we’ve seen that many boating enthusiasts have developed a special appreciation for European boats. When considering whether a European boat is right for you and your family, it’s important to know what makes some of these vessels different from American boats. For starters, there’s a big difference in how many Europeans use their boats compared to Americans.

In Europe, many people use their vessels as day boats, while Americans are more likely to use them as weekenders. In practice, though, most average Americans don’t spend very many nights aboard their boats. Europeans are much more likely to enjoy an overnight trip on their boat, even if they hadn’t necessarily planned to make it a multiple-day trip. The way these boats are enjoyed has led to some difference in design when it comes to European boats.

New European boat designs are dayboats with a good deal more overnight amenities than were available in the past. Some Americans who have thought about how much they really live aboard their boats realize that these amenities are enough. With that in mind, we encourage boat owners to think about how many overnight features they really need. Do you need a vessel with massive sleeping quarters, or can a slightly smaller boat be more than enough to handle the job? We like to use the analogy of deciding between a heavy-duty truck compared to a sleeker SUV.

European Boat Design

Throughout the history of European boating, it seems that skills related to boat craftsmanship are passed down from generation to generation. This creates a vast pool of knowledge that can be leveraged by carpenters, electricians, welders, masons, plumbers, and more. Furthermore, Europeans place a lot of value on these professional trades, encouraging some of the best and brightest minds to go into boatmaking.

Even so, many of these professionals and in Europe don’t demand the high labor rate that their American counterparts do. For this reason, European boats often come to the United States at very attractive prices. Even after shipping, customs, taxes, rate exchanges, and more, you can get a great deal. You might be surprised how far your dollar goes when it comes to getting the type of fit, finish, and construction that is the pride of European culture.

European Boats Efficiency

These boats are known for their efficient design. Fuel, electricity, and other resources are more expensive in much of Europe than in the United States, so these boats are designed to preserve them. Not only are the boats designed and built more efficiently, but they’re also likely to have lower operating costs.

One example here is how Axopar, a globally renowned Finnish brand of premium range, multi award-winning motorboats, lowered the gunnel height to use less materials and lower the center of gravity. These boats run efficiently and are comfortable in rough seas. Axopar lowered part of the helm deck in a corresponding move so passengers can still feel safe and secure, even at high speeds.

Style and Design

The long boating history in Europe informs the style and design of these boats. Expect to find a good mix of classic and innovative designs. This is appealing to many of our customers who want something with an original look that will turn heads out on the water. While these boats are beautiful, the aesthetics are still informed by what performs the best.

Functionality

As you might have guessed based on how efficient European boats are, form generally follows function. Some boatmakers occasionally make the mistake of coming up with a beautiful design, then trying to cram features and functions into that design. When you buy a premium imported boat, you can count on its designers to put performance and durability first and foremost.

European Naval Architecture

Europe is home to many marine institutes that have a history of making successful innovations for the industry, especially in the Netherlands. Due to geographic proximity and a culture that encourages businesses to share knowledge openly, many of these innovations find their way to smaller boatmakers. One great example is Axopar. Their AXE bow was originally designed for and used on a 200-foot ship. Applying innovations like this to recreational boats makes them state of the art.

Electronics

The use of cutting edge technology in European boats doesn’t end at hull design and overall architecture. These boats are also loaded with some of the best technology available in new boats. Anything produced in Europe to be sold in the United States will be prepared to work well with the types of electrical supplies you’re used to in America. Our team confirms that all imported boats are ready for operation in South Florida.

Status and Resale Value

Last, but certainly not least, resale value is often higher if you choose the right European boat brand. Owning an imported boat is regarded as prestigious by many people, and lower inventory levels can preserve the value of your boat. Popular boats like the Beneteau-Antares 27 don’t depreciate as quickly and can fetch you a high price or trade-in value.

Best European Boats

As European boats continue to shape the industry in the United States, some brands are leading the way. Our commitment to offering vessels from the best boat brands on the market drives us to identify the best options and connect our customers with them. Here at Nautical Ventures Marine Center, we offer the following European fiberglass boats:

• Axopar

• Beneteau-Antares

• Beneteau Flyer

• De Antonio Yachts

Buy European Boats in South Florida

Whether you prefer boats made in America or European boats, you can find the best options here at Nautical Ventures Marine Center. With locations in Broward, Tampa Bay, Palm Beach, and Sarasota, we’re working hard to maintain our reputation as the most reliable boat vendor in Florida. Our staff is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to every type of boat we sell, so start a dialogue today to explore our new boats for sale.