Yacht Delivery & Vessel Relocation

Common Delivery Scenarios

• New purchase delivery: move a newly purchased boat to your home marina
• Seasonal relocation: reposition to different cruising grounds
• Dealer or yard transfers: move between facilities or for scheduled service
• Hurricane relocation: relocate early to reduce storm exposure (when feasible)

How We Plan a Safe Delivery

Professional delivery is more than “go from A to B.” We plan conservatively, prepare the vessel, and select routes and timing based on weather windows and vessel readiness. Many delivery guides emphasize planning ahead (not last-minute) so the boat can be inspected and the trip can be scheduled around safe conditions.

• Pre-departure assessment: dockside inspection of critical systems and safety equipment (observational)
• Route planning: offshore vs ICW/inshore decisions (where applicable), fuel stops, and safe harbors
• Weather window discipline: we don’t “push” unsafe forecasts
• Crewing: captain + crew planned for vessel size, route, and watch schedule
• Daily updates: position/progress reports and any issues discovered underway

Owner Onboard (Optional)

Many owners choose to ride along as an “assisted passage” to learn their boat during the delivery. It’s often the best real-world training scenario—on your vessel, on an actual passage

What You Receive

• Clear scope and delivery plan before departure
• Regular progress updates during the trip
• A close-out summary upon arrival (notes on any issues observed)
• Optional “new-owner orientation” after arrival (see Boat Orientation)

Important Notes

Delivery timelines are always subject to weather, mechanical readiness, and marina/yard access. A safe delivery sometimes means waiting for the right window. We’ll communicate clearly and document decisions.

Service Area

YachtWatchers is based on the Texas Gulf Coast (Clear Lake / Kemah / Galveston Bay). Delivery and relocation services can extend beyond the local area depending on vessel type, route, and scheduling.

FAQs

How do you price delivery?
Delivery is quoted based on route distance/time, vessel type, crew needs, and expected pace (including weather planning). Expenses such as fuel, dockage, and provisions are typically separate and documented.

Do you provide a delivery agreement?
Yes. We use a written scope covering route assumptions, responsibilities, expenses, and communication expectations.

What if weather delays the trip?
Weather delays are normal in professional delivery. We plan conservatively and communicate early. Safety and vessel protection come first.

Can you do a “shakedown” run after repairs or purchase?
Yes. Many owners schedule a short shakedown delivery to uncover issues before longer trips—often paired with a training session.

Is this the same as towing?
No. Delivery is underway operation by a captain and crew. If a boat is not seaworthy to move under its own power, we can discuss alternatives and coordination with the appropriate providers.