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Yacht Charter Glossary

Trawler Yacht

Also known as: Long-Range Cruiser · Expedition Yacht

Full explanation

Trawler yachts evolved from commercial fishing-trawler design - a deep displacement hull, large fuel tanks (often 8,000–20,000 litres), and engines tuned for economy rather than peak speed.

The result is a yacht that can cross the Mediterranean non-stop, weather heavy seas comfortably, and burn 30–50% less fuel per nautical mile than a comparable planing-hull motor yacht. Trawler-yacht market in Greece 2026: a small but growing segment.

Brands: Nordhavn, Marlow, Selene, Outer Reef.

Yachts typically 18–30m, weekly charter rates €30,000–€95,000 - lower than equivalent-length performance motor yachts because the build cost is lower and the running cost on the operator is dramatically lower. Why trawler yachts are gaining popularity: rising fuel costs (Greek diesel hit €1.70/litre in 2025), longer charter itineraries (UHNW buyers wanting 14-day Greece-to-Turkey-to-Croatia tours need range), and the environmental optics (lower fuel burn = lower carbon visible footprint). Trawler vs standard motor yacht: trawlers sacrifice speed (12 knots vs 16–20 knots) for range and economy.

On a 7-night Greek itinerary the speed deficit costs you 1–2 hours per passage day, usually irrelevant.

On a 14-night two-country itinerary the range advantage matters significantly.

Why it matters for UHNW charterers

Trawler yachts are an under-marketed segment. Buyers who care about fuel-efficiency optics, long-range comfort, or who genuinely cruise rather than island-hop have an entire yacht category that brokers rarely lead with. Knowing they exist opens better options for specific buyer profiles.

Worked examples

Nordhavn 60 charter, 7 nights, Cyclades + Dodecanese

Charter fee: €52,000. APA at 22% (low-consumption profile): €11,440. 4 cabins, 4 crew, 18,000-litre tank means no refuelling needed on the entire 7-night trip.

Frequently asked

About trawler yacht

Are trawler yachts slower than other motor yachts?

Yes - typically 10–12 knots cruise vs 14–18 for planing or semi-displacement motor yachts. On Greek charter distances this difference is rarely material.

Are trawler yachts more comfortable in heavy weather?

Yes. Deep displacement hulls and lower beam-to-length ratios make trawler yachts notably more comfortable in Force 5–6 conditions than equivalent planing-hull yachts.

Why are trawler yachts cheaper to charter?

Lower build cost per metre (less complex engineering than high-performance planing hulls), lower fuel consumption (lower APA), and smaller crew requirements. The savings pass through to charter rates.

Related terms

Other definitions worth knowing

Motor Yacht

A motor yacht is a yacht propelled entirely by engines, with no sailing capability. Motor yachts dominate th…

APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance)

APA is an upfront sum - typically 25–35% of the base charter fee - paid before embarkation to cover the …

Captain

The captain is the senior officer aboard a yacht - responsible for navigation, safety, crew discipline, an…

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