If you’ve been browsing listings for a boat for sale , chances are you’ve asked yourself the same question most first-time buyers do—how much does a new boat actually cost? The truth is, owning a boat is about much more than that attractive showroom price. From upfront extras to ongoing maintenance, there are many layers of cost you need to budget for before you set sail. Whether you're dreaming of quiet weekends on the lake or full-blown ocean adventures, understanding the real investment behind a new boat is the first step to becoming a smart, stress-free boat owner. What Defines a “Boat” vs. a “Yacht”? Before diving into the numbers, it's helpful to clarify what kind of vessel you're looking at. While the word "boat" can refer to anything from a 14-foot fishing skiff to a 100-foot ocean cruiser, a "yacht" typically refers to recreational vessels over 33 feet that are designed with comfort, amenities, and longer voyages in mind. If it has sleeping ...