Full Displacement

Current Yachts

A podcast designed to educate yacht sellers and yacht buyers, and to share what is happening in the yacht brokerage market. Produced by Current Yachts.

  1. Can you write off your yacht?

    6 DAYS AGO

    Can you write off your yacht?

    Most boat owners are leaving massive tax benefits on the table. Or worse, sidestepping IRS rules without knowing it. CPA Doug Benefield and fiduciary advisor Joe McKinley break down exactly how to turn your yacht into a legitimate, tax-efficient business that holds up to IRS scrutiny. Whether you're a current owner, considering your first purchase, or simply a high-net-worth individual exploring smarter asset strategies, this episode may save you hundreds of thousands. Doug Benefield is a licensed CPA helping small businesses and boat owners nationwide legally maximize tax benefits. Joe McKinley is a fiduciary financial advisor specializing in tax strategy and asset management. From multi-member LLCs and bonus depreciation to active participation documentation and Section 179 strategies, they cover the critical steps to maximizing deductions without triggering audits. You'll also learn how to use charter operator proformas, build a compliant business plan, and work with your existing CPA to optimize your position. Contacts & Resources: 📲 Get in touch with Tideline Solutions: https://currentyachts.com/resources/directory/tideline-solutions 📆 Book your consultation with yacht broker Amanda Haley: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/consult-amanda 📩 Browse our Marine Directory of yachting professionals: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/directory Key Insights: ✍🏼 Entity structure matters. Multi-member LLCs or S-corps with formal operating agreements are your first line of defense against audits and liability. 📆 Think holistically. Yacht financing and business operations should align with your broader wealth strategy, not exist in isolation. 🛥️ Prove you're in the game. Active management and a documented profit motive are what make deductions stick under IRS scrutiny. 📚 Loopholes aren't loopholes: they're rules. Legitimate deductions require genuinely meeting IRS definitions of business activity and participation. ⏱ Know your life stage. Liquidity, goals, and timing should drive the decision: not just the tax upside. 🤝 Your advisors should talk to each other. Brokers, CPAs, and financial planners working in sync is what keeps you compliant and protected. 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Annapolis, Maryland. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    45 min
  2. Ask a yacht broker: Your questions answered

    11 MAR

    Ask a yacht broker: Your questions answered

    In this episode, Amanda Haley, a seasoned yacht broker from Current Yachts in Fort Lauderdale, shares expert insights on buying and selling boats. Topics include timelines for finding the right boat, the importance of financing, negotiation strategies, and maintenance costs, helping listeners make informed decisions in the yacht market. Resources and Contacts: 🔎 Looking for a marine professional? Browse our FREE Marine Directory: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/directory ⬇️ Download our FREE boat buying budget spreadsheet: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/downloads 🎥 Watch: 5 Interior Features that Will Make or Break your Liveaboard Experience: https://youtu.be/KutrHKGzkQo ⛵️ Hire Current Yachts to represent you as a boat buyer: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/buy 🛥️ Work with Current Yacht to sell your yacht: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/sell Key Topics 📆 Timeline for finding the right boat ⚓️ Role of buyer's broker vs. listing broker ✍🏼 Private seller vs. dealer or broker buying 💵 Marine financing timing and approval 📈 Market conditions and negotiation strategies ⚙️ Boat maintenance costs and inspection tips 📝 Legal paperwork and ownership transfer 💸 Cost of ownership beyond purchase price ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    29 min
  3. Building a Custom Yacht vs Buying a Production Vessel

    4 MAR

    Building a Custom Yacht vs Buying a Production Vessel

    Discover the ins and outs of custom yacht construction from industry veteran Austin Ellingsen. Whether you're contemplating a made-to-you vessel or just curious about the process, this episode sheds light on project timelines, costs, shipyard selection, and what makes a truly personalized yacht. We address the common question: does building a custom luxury yacht cost more than a production vessel? This video details the typical timeline for a custom project, from initial design to final delivery, which can span two to five years. Join us for insights into the world of yachting and discover the nuances of custom builds versus production boats. Contacts & Resources 📞 Consult with Austin: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/consult-austin 📲 Buy your next yacht with Current Yachts: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/buy 🎥 Our podcast Full Displacement helps educate yacht sellers and buyers, and shares what is happening in the yacht brokerage market: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcE3-wOQgN8C7VGybRHBjzf9uZsr6tPs Key Takeaways 🛥️ Why buyers choose custom yachts over production vessels 📆 Typical project timelines vary depending on complexity and shipyard scheduling 💵 The sweet post on cost to build is around the $3-4 million mark 🛳️ Different hull materials: fiberglass, aluminum, and steel — pros and cons for various uses 🏭 The importance of selecting reputable shipyards and Austin’s process for evaluating and inspecting them 😀 Managing client expectations: balancing dreams with practicality, constraints, and design revisions ⚓️ The role of the project manager or consultant during the build, ensuring quality and adherence to specifications ✍🏼 Payment structure and risk mitigation: deposit schedules, financing options, and contractual safeguards 🔍 The significance of shipyard reputation, past projects, and avoiding scope creep 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Annapolis, Maryland. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. 1️⃣ Our flat-rate selling expense replaces inflated yacht brokerage commissions. 2️⃣ Our buyer-broker representation agreement means our yacht buyers receive the unbiased guidance they need to protect their interests. 3️⃣ Our modern platform streamlines the listing intake. 🏁 The result? More transparent yacht sales, and faster, more efficient transactions. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    32 min
  4. Yachting vs real estate

    25 FEB

    Yachting vs real estate

    This episode explores the similarities and differences between yacht and real estate transactions, focusing on asset valuation and depreciation, regulation and licensing, as well as tax implications. The conversation also covers how these high-value assets are bought and sold, providing valuable insights for buyers, sellers, and industry professionals. Resources: 📺 Watch: How co-brokerage works https://youtu.be/EEvsNv3nVH0 🎧 Listen to the episode: Tax planning when buying a yacht: https://youtu.be/bNvYndLh_Ro ⚓️ H. R. 7222 "No Tax on Boat Loan Interest Act of 2026" (Proposed legislation): https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7222/text ⛵️ Hire Current Yachts to represent you as a boat buyer: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/buy 🛥️ Work with Current Yacht to sell your yacht: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/sell 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    39 min
  5. Rigging must-know for every yacht buyer

    18 FEB

    Rigging must-know for every yacht buyer

    Join Full Displacement as we discuss the critical aspects of rigging with Trevor Harney from Harney Yacht Rigging. The conversation covers the importance of rigging for safety and resale value, the differences between standing and running rigging, and the lifespan of various components. Trevor shares insights on assessing rigging quality, the inspection process, advancements in rigging technology, and the importance of professional inspections. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Trevor's passion for sailing and rigging. Resources: 📲 Harney Rigging Services: https://currentyachts.com/resources/directory/harney-rigging-services ⛵️ Hire Current Yachts to represent you as a boat buyer: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/buy 🛥️ Work with Current Yacht to sell your yacht: https://youtube.currentyachts.com/sell Key Takeaways: 🛟 Rigging is often overlooked but crucial for safety. 🗓️ Standing rigging typically lasts 10 to 15 years depending on conditions. 🔎 Inspect chain plates for signs of water ingress and rot. ⚓️ It's important to replace rigging in pairs for even tension. ⚙️ Quality hardware is essential for safety and performance. 🪢 Dyneema is a preferred material for running rigging. 💸 Professional inspections can prevent costly mistakes. 🤔 Understanding the difference between standing and running rigging is key. ⛵️ Maintenance is important, but lifespan is also affected by environmental factors. 💵 Investing in rigging inspections is just as important as car maintenance. 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Annapolis, Maryland. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. 🎥 Our podcast Full Displacement helps educate yacht sellers and buyers, and shares what is happening in the yacht brokerage market: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcE3-wOQgN8C7VGybRHBjzf9uZsr6tPs We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    27 min
  6. Island Spirit 525E electric catamaran: The range revolution

    11 FEB

    Island Spirit 525E electric catamaran: The range revolution

    In this episode of the Current Yachts podcast, hosts Maryline and Amanda welcome Phillip Winter to discuss the innovative Island Spirit 525E, a fully electric catamaran built in Thailand. Phillip shares his extensive background in the boating industry, highlighting the evolution of electric propulsion and the challenges it has faced, such as range anxiety and technological limitations. He explains how Island Spirit has addressed these issues with significant advancements in battery technology, allowing for longer ranges and better performance compared to traditional hybrid systems. The conversation also covers the history of Island Spirit as a brand, its manufacturing in Thailand, and the advantages of its unique hull design, which contributes to the boat's efficiency and durability. Key Takeaways: 🪫 Range anxiety is a major factor in the adoption of electric catamarans. ⚡️ Electric propulsion is gaining traction in the boating industry but is lagging behind electric cars. 🔋 The Island Spirit 525E is a fully electric catamaran with significant range and features a staggering 210 kilowatt-hour battery bank. ⚓️ Battery technology advancements are crucial for electric boating. 🔌 Full electric systems offer simplicity compared to hybrid systems. ⛵️ Island Spirit's design focuses on efficiency and performance. 💪 The hull design of Island Spirit 525E enhances structural integrity. ☀️ Charging options include solar, shore power, and hydro generation. 🗺️ Real-world sailing experiences highlight the boat's capabilities. 💵 Electric catamarans can be cost-effective in the long run. ⏰ Battery lifespan can exceed 10 years with proper management. 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Annapolis, Maryland. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. 🎥 Our podcast Full Displacement helps educate yacht sellers and buyers, and shares what is happening in the yacht brokerage market: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcE3-wOQgN8C7VGybRHBjzf9uZsr6tPs We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. How? 1️⃣ Our flat-rate selling expense replaces inflated yacht brokerage commissions. And the buyer-side commission (called co-brokerage) only gets paid if a co-broker is present. 2️⃣ Our buyer-broker representation agreement means our yacht buyers receive the unbiased guidance they need to protect their interests. 3️⃣ Our modern platform streamlines the listing intake process including an listing agreement you can generate and signed digitally within minutes. Our platform ensures real-time communication with a dedicated team and provides analytics for all parties. 🏁 The result? More transparent yacht sales, and faster, more efficient transactions. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference & follow Current Yachts: 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    42 min
  7. Two Guys & 160 Mooring Balls in BVI

    4 FEB

    Two Guys & 160 Mooring Balls in BVI

    Meet the founders of BoatyBall, and learn all about the innovative mooring reservation platform they designed for the British Virgin Islands. In this episode, we dig into the origins of BoatyBall, the challenges faced in implementing the system, and the dynamics of demand and user engagement. The conversation also covers the balance between reservable and first-come-first-serve moorings, the importance of maintenance, and how they handle customer service and conflict resolution.Ty and Bob highlight the importance of reliable connectivity, customer service, and the value of their membership program, which includes medical evacuation coverage and other perks. The introduction of the anchor alarm feature aims to enhance safety for boaters. They also share tips for users to optimize their mooring reservations and discuss the impact of their service on the BVI cruising experience, including collaboration with local businesses. Key Takewaways: 📍 BoatyBall is a reservation platform for moorings in the BVI. 💡 The idea for BoatyBall originated from a frustrating experience with mooring balls. 🤔 Initial challenges included understanding the existing mooring system. ⚓️ Demand for reservable moorings has significantly increased since launch. ❌ Cancellations have risen due to users reserving multiple moorings for the same boat. 💰 A $15 annual membership is now required to reserve moorings. 🛥️ First-come-first-serve moorings still exist alongside reservable ones. ⛓️ Maintenance of moorings is crucial for safety and trust. 👏🏼 Membership provides value beyond just mooring reservations. 🚑 Medical evacuation coverage is a crucial benefit for members. 🍹 The membership includes perks like free drinks at local bars. ⏰ The anchor alarm feature enhances safety for boaters. ⏳ Users should reserve moorings early to avoid competition. ⛵️Transient sailors can benefit from the service but have different needs. 👍🏼 Collaboration with local businesses helps improve the overall experience. 💵 The service aims to reduce cash transactions and improve efficiency. 💭 WHO IS CURRENT YACHTS? We are a full service yacht brokerage company located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Annapolis, Maryland. Our licensed and bonded professional brokers assist yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. 🎥 Our podcast Full Displacement helps educate yacht sellers and buyers, and shares what is happening in the yacht brokerage market: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXcE3-wOQgN8C7VGybRHBjzf9uZsr6tPs We are revolutionizing yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts yacht buyers and sellers first. ⚓️ Discover the Current Yachts difference at https://currentyachts.com/ 🛥️ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/

    46 min
  8. Sailmaker advice you've never heard elsewhere

    28 JAN

    Sailmaker advice you've never heard elsewhere

    In this episode of Full Displacement, the hosts from Current Yachts speak with Greg Koski from Ullman Sails about the essential aspects of sails for sailors and cruisers. They discuss Greg's extensive background in the sail-making industry, the impact of recent industry consolidations, and the various costs associated with sail ownership. he importance of sail materials, how to assess the condition of sails before purchasing a boat, and the best practices for sail care and maintenance. Greg also shares insights on sail production and quality control, emphasizing the importance of preventative maintenance for a successful sailing experience. Contact & Resources: Greg Koski & Ullman Sails: https://currentyachts.com/resources/directory/ullman-sails-mid-atlantic-midwest Key Takeaways: ⛵️ Sails are crucial for the performance of a sailboat. 💰 Understanding sail costs is essential for new boat owners. 🧵 Sail materials significantly affect the price and performance. 🫧 Regular maintenance can extend the life of sails. 🔎 Assessing sail condition is vital before purchasing a boat. 🧼 Sail care includes cleaning and proper storage techniques. 👍🏼 Quality control is important in sail production. 🤔 Sailmakers should educate customers on proper sail handling. 🪡 Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs. 🌊 Sail ownership involves understanding the ongoing costs and needs. About Current Yachts Current Yachts revolutionizes yacht sales by offering a transparent, service-based pricing model that puts the consumer first. How? 1️⃣ We replace traditional high commissions in yacht brokerage with flat-rate selling expenses, and the buyer-side commission (co-brokerage) only gets paid when a co-broker is present -- saving our sellers money. 2️⃣ We are a full service yacht brokerage company with licensed and bonded professional brokers assisting yacht sellers and buyers every step of the way. 3️⃣ Current Yachts is also the first yacht brokerage company to offer a buyer representation agreement. 💻 Our modern platform streamlines the listing intake process, and ensures real-time communication and analytics for all parties. Our team is focused on transparent yacht sales and facilitates faster, more efficient transactions. We've set out to build a genuine community that offers exclusive insights and resources, empowering yacht owners and buyers alike. And our podcast Full Displacement is designed to educate yacht sellers and buyers, and to share what is happening in the yacht brokerage market. Discover the Current Yachts difference: professional service without the bloated pricing. Join us at https://currentyachts.com/ Follow Current Yachts: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/currentyachts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentyachts/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/currentyachts/ Browse our inventory: https://currentyachts.com/boats/

    50 min
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About

A podcast designed to educate yacht sellers and yacht buyers, and to share what is happening in the yacht brokerage market. Produced by Current Yachts.

Information

  • Creator
    Current Yachts
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Current Yachts
  • Provider

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