Access yacht-backed financing without selling your vessel. TLN structures private capital arrangements secured by motor yachts, sailing yachts, and superyachts, based on USCG documentation, marine surveys, and current market values.
Yachts and luxury vessels represent some of the largest single-asset investments made by high-net-worth individuals. A 70-foot motor yacht from a premier builder represents $2–$4 million in asset value; a 120-foot superyacht can represent $10–$30 million or more. Yet for owners who need capital, these assets are often some of the most difficult to monetize quickly, yacht sales can take months, and distressed sales rarely capture full market value.
TLN's yacht-backed financing program allows qualifying vessel owners to access private capital against the verified market value of their marine assets, without listing the boat for sale, without disrupting their charter revenue if applicable, and without the extended timeline of a traditional marine transaction. The vessel serves as collateral. Capital is structured around what the market says the vessel is worth today.
Our review process is grounded in the mechanics of the marine market: USCG documentation status, clean title, the results of a recent out-of-water survey from a certified marine surveyor, engine hour documentation and program status, hull condition, and current broker market comparables. Each vessel is assessed on its individual merits, no two yachts are identical, and our team understands the significant value differences between a well-maintained vessel and one that has been deferred in maintenance.
Yacht-backed capital is frequently used by vessel owners navigating business transitions, real estate investments, estate obligations, bridge financing needs, and situations where the owner wants to maintain possession of a vessel through a period of temporary capital need rather than execute a below-market liquidation sale.
TLN reviews a wide range of luxury and commercial-grade marine assets. All vessels reviewed on individual merits.
Planing and semi-displacement motor yachts from recognized builders, Sunseeker, Ferretti, Azimut, Princess, Pershing, Absolute, Viking, and others, in the 40–100+ foot range. Engine hours relative to manufacturer overhaul intervals, hull condition at last haulout, and current charter or recreational use status are all reviewed. Builder reputation and regional market liquidity inform the loan-to-value ratio.
Bluewater sailing yachts, performance cruisers, and racing yachts from builders including Beneteau, Hallberg-Rassy, Swan, Oyster, Island Packet, and custom builders. Sail inventory condition, rigging age and inspection history, keel condition, and standing rigging replacement dates are reviewed alongside hull survey results. Offshore capable vessels with established cruising records are strongest for review.
Vessels exceeding 100 feet LOA from premier builders, Lurssen, Feadship, Heesen, Benetti, Oceanco, Trinity, and others, may be reviewed for larger capital structures. Superyacht valuations require crew cost analysis, maintenance expense review, flag state compliance documentation, and class certification status in addition to standard marine survey documentation. These transactions often involve coordination with specialist yacht finance advisors.
Custom and production sport fishing vessels, Viking Yachts, Hatteras, Post Marine, Buddy Davis, Spencer, with documented tournament history, well-maintained fishing systems, and mechanically sound twin engine installations. Tournament production records and named captain history can support valuations for well-known vessels in the sport fishing community. Engine program status is particularly important for high-hour sport fish platforms.
Yacht valuation for lending purposes requires specialized marine market expertise. TLN's review process is grounded in the same methodology used by professional yacht brokers and marine lenders, not generic depreciation schedules or retail guide values.
Marine Survey: A recent out-of-water condition and value survey from a SAMS (Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors) or NAMS (National Association of Marine Surveyors) certified surveyor is the primary basis for establishing collateral value. TLN typically requires a survey completed within the past 12 months. Surveys must include a haul-out inspection and assessment of hull condition, including osmotic blistering, gelcoat condition, keel attachment, and running gear.
Engine Hours & Condition: Engine hours are the primary operational wear indicator for motor vessels. Hours are reviewed relative to manufacturer overhaul intervals (typically 3,000–5,000 hours for diesel yacht engines) and documented maintenance records. Vessels enrolled in JSSI Total Care, MTU Value Care, Volvo Penta ESP, or manufacturer-sponsored engine programs carry third-party documentation of engine condition that supports stronger valuations.
USCG Documentation & Title: USCG documentation (preferred for US-flagged vessels over 5 net tons) provides a federal ownership record and establishes clear title. Any outstanding preferred ship mortgages (PSMs) against the vessel must be identified and accounted for in the capital structure. Foreign-flagged vessels may also be reviewed, with flag state registration documentation required.
Hull Condition: Hull material (fiberglass, aluminum, steel, composite) significantly affects valuation, maintenance expectations, and secondary market liquidity. Fiberglass construction is most common and most liquid in the market. Steel and aluminum hulls are reviewed with attention to corrosion protection documentation and inspection history. Custom composite hulls from recognized builders may carry significant value premiums.
The specific custody arrangements for a vessel during the loan term depend on the vessel's size, location, and use profile. TLN's team works with borrowers to structure custody terms that protect the collateral while accommodating practical vessel management needs.
For many transactions, the vessel remains at its current marina or storage facility, with TLN holding a first preferred ship mortgage (PSM) as the security instrument. The borrower may continue to use the vessel for recreational purposes within the scope of the loan agreement. Vessels being actively chartered may have specific charter revenue and custody provisions addressed in the loan documentation.
Insurance requirements during the loan term are specified in the loan agreement and typically include agreed-value hull coverage from a recognized marine insurer, P&I coverage, and any special coverage required by the vessel's use profile or flag state.
TLN welcomes referrals from yacht brokers, marine attorneys, and financial advisors representing clients with yacht assets. Our broker partner program allows qualified professionals to introduce yacht-owning clients for confidential review. Contact our team directly to discuss partnership arrangements and the referral process.
Share your vessel details, builder, LOA, year, engine hours, USCG documentation number, and available survey. Our team responds within hours.
Our specialists review against marine market data and issue a preliminary term sheet within 24 hours. Marine survey coordination may follow for vessels requiring current inspection.
Sign the loan agreement and preferred ship mortgage. Marine counsel confirms title and lien position. Capital deployed within days.
Submit your vessel details for a confidential review. No credit check. No obligation. Term sheets within 24 hours.