The Big Beautiful Bill: Why Now Is the Smartest Time to Buy a Yacht
If you’ve ever considered yacht ownership, there’s never been a better time to act. Thanks to a powerful piece of legislation passed on July 4, 2025, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA)—or simply the Big Beautiful Bill—qualified buyers can now enjoy 100% bonus depreciation on luxury yacht purchases used primarily for business purposes.
This game-changing bill creates unprecedented financial incentives, especially for entrepreneurs, investors, and high-net-worth individuals looking to maximize both lifestyle and tax advantages through strategic yacht ownership.
What Is the Big Beautiful Bill?
The Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA) is a federal tax law that restores full 100% bonus depreciation for eligible property—including business-use yachts—that is placed in service between January 19, 2025, and December 31, 2029.
What does that mean for buyers?
It means if you use a yacht for legitimate business purposes more than 50% of the time, you can deduct the full purchase price in the first year of ownership—just like you would with other qualified business assets.
How Does 100% Bonus Depreciation Work for Yachts?
This tax incentive is designed to encourage capital investment—and yes, yachts count. But to qualify, the yacht must meet several key criteria (more on that below).
What Qualifies as ‘Business Use’ of a Yacht?
To claim the full deduction under the Big Beautiful Bill, your yacht must be used more than 50% for business purposes. Here are some qualifying examples:
Charter operations (offering the vessel for commercial use)
Corporate entertainment (client dinners, networking events)
Client meetings or strategic retreats
Company-branded events or photo shoots
💡 Tip: Keep detailed documentation such as:
Charter contracts and agreements
Marketing materials and business use calendars
Guest logs and itineraries
Financial records and charter income reports
Proper record-keeping is crucial in case of an IRS audit.
Location & Timing Requirements
In order to qualify for the bonus depreciation under OBBBA:
✅ The yacht must be operated in U.S. waters (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) more than 50% of the time.
✅ The vessel must be purchased and placed in service between January 19, 2025, and December 31, 2029.
This window gives buyers a strategic advantage—but it won’t last forever.
More Than a Tax Write-Off: Lifestyle Meets Investment
While the tax benefits are substantial, yacht ownership under OBBBA offers more than just savings:
Increased access to charter income
Brand-building opportunities through luxury events
Networking and client engagement on the water
Long-term asset growth potential through strategic resale and upgrades
For business owners, entertainers, consultants, or real estate developers, this can turn a luxury lifestyle asset into a revenue-generating, brand-enhancing investment.
How Pyper Yachts Helps You Maximize the Big Beautiful Bill
At Pyper Yachts, we don’t just sell yachts—we help you strategically acquire, manage, and leverage them for maximum financial benefit.
Here’s how we can assist:
Structuring ownership to qualify for business use
Coordinating charter programs and documentation
Full yacht management services from design to operations
Collaborating with CPAs and legal advisors to ensure tax compliance
Location-based guidance to maintain U.S. operation standards
Our team of experts understands both the luxury lifestyle and the business mechanics of yacht ownership. Whether you're purchasing your first yacht or expanding your fleet, we’re here to navigate the fine print and unlock every opportunity the Big Beautiful Bill offers.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss the Boat
The Big Beautiful Bill has made 2025 through 2029 a historic window for savvy yacht buyers. With 100% bonus depreciation, U.S.-based usage incentives, and the rising popularity of charter income models, this legislation is rewriting the rules of yacht ownership.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to make the leap, this is it.
Ready to learn more or start your journey?
Contact the Pyper Yachts team today to schedule a private consultation or explore our available fleet.
Click the link below to fill out our contact form today!