Finding The Value In VanDutch 40’s
Understanding Value In A Competitive Market Separates Smart Buyers From Overpayers
I spent last night reviewing the market. Not the VanDutch 40 market, but every day boat listed under $500,000 so I could give you the best intel. It led me to a clear conclusion.
I can confidently say the VanDutch 40 market offers some of the best value in day boating today, as long as you don’t buy junk. Between all the major day boating brands: Wajer, Vanquish, Pardo, Fjord, et al., you’re $500,000 won’t go far. But seeing what the US VanDutch 40 market offers, if your budget is $400,000-500,000, you can get places.
Let’s dive into the analysis, to give you a little more color than the asking prices can offer.
The Options
Each option represents a different philosophy toward ownership, from budget conscious entry to premium & turnkey. Understanding these differences is crucial to making the right choice.
Option 1: VanDutch 40 "VanDutch" $428,500 (Just Reduced from $440,000)
The Details:
Year: 2017
Hours: 315
Engines: Twin Cummins QSB 6.7L 480 HP
Hull Color: McLaren Silver
Upholstery Color: Hermes Orange
Plotter: Garmin
Condition: Excellent
Why This Stands Out: Professional management since 2021 has kept this boat in exceptional condition. Stored on a lift for most of its life, it presents like a much newer vessel. Factory Garmin electronics, a spare set of factory props, and complete service records demonstrate the level of care this boat has received.
The Investment Case: The recent reduction to $428,500 creates a compelling value proposition. You're acquiring the newest of the available first generation VanDutch 40s with the fewest hours and highest specific at a reasonable price against comps. Does the color look unique? Only two McLaren Silver VanDutch 40s were ever made.
Option 2: VanDutch 40 "SVG II" $445,000
The Details:
Year: 2016
Hours: 980
Engines: Twin Cummins QSB 6.7L 480 HP
Hull Color: Pagani Silver
Upholstery Color: White, silver piping
Plotter: Simrad
Condition: Good
Why This Stands Out: This boat asks $16,500 more than the 2017 despite being older with over 650 more hours. Alternatively, a new generator was installed in 2021 and the modern Fusion head unit in 2022. Are your eyes drawn pleasantly to the color? Pagani Silver is the most popular color of the model.
The Risk Assessment: Low, but being in California may add a minimum of $25,000 to anyone boating in the Southeast. The 2017 is objectively a better all-around option, but if you skew to this color scheme, SVG II serves a good purpose.
Option 3: VanDutch 40 "VanDutch" $399,000
The Details:
Year: 2015
Hours: 1,000+ (varied)
Engines: Twin Cummins QSB 6.7L 480 HP
Hull Color: Titanium
Upholstery Color: White, silver piping
Plotter: Simrad
Condition: Average
Why This Stands Out: One engine is reported at 60 hours, but to my knowledge, the engine wasn’t replaced. If you’re looking to fully refit, this of the four options is the one you’ll buy the cheapest.
If you like the color, you’ve got two Titanium options on the market to choose from, both located in South Florida.
The True Cost: While an initial $29,500 savings from the 2017 can catch your eye, the hour differential and age-related maintenance could add significant cost if not analyzed accurately in survey.
Option 4: VanDutch 40 "Stay Broke" $415,000
The Details:
Year: 2014
Hours: 2,000
Engines: Twin Cummins QSB 6.7L 480 HP
Hull Color: Titanium
Upholstery Color: Grey
Plotter: Simrad
Condition: Above Average
Why This Stands Out: While the hour count is high, the owner takes good care of his boat while running a charter business off of it. If you’re seeking a boat in a single asset entity, ready for charter, this 2014 is a good place to start.
The True Cost: As the oldest of the options, this joins the 2015 as an expensive long term maintenance cost. A difference of $13,500 to get a boat 3 years newer with 1,700 less hours is a no-brainer.
The Comparative Analysis
Current asking prices versus actual value delivered:
2017 Option: $428,500 delivering newest vintage, best condition and lowest hours
2016 Option: $445,000 with California location
2015 Option: $399,000 with conditional question marks
2014 Option: $415,000 for highest hours and setup for charter
Value Determination
Four factors separate the 2017 listing from the competition:
Market Position: Newest available boat with lowest operating hours at a competitive price point.
Documentation Standards: Complete maintenance history and professional management records provide confidence.
Build Quality: As a member of the 2017 vintage, a Garmin plotter, autopilot and navigation equipment were all factory-standard. The autopilot is operated via a separate panel at the helm, and the main music controller is to the left of the helm instead of in the cabin entryway.
Extras: Over $10,000 in accessories are included with the boat, including an extra set of factory propellers, engine supplies and backup filters
The Bottom Line
The 2017 VanDutch 40 at $428,500 represents the strongest value play in the current US market. Its recent price adjustment makes it the clear choice for buyers wanting that ‘best boat for the best price’ deal.
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Let’s use the value-based approach in this artcile to find your next boat.
To get started, email me at Reed@RNMarine.com.
About the Author
Reed Nicol is a licensed yacht broker with experience in all corners of the marine industry. He’s worked as an executive and sales director in yacht manufacturing and distribution, has structured commercial charter operations, and designed and executed notable refits. Read more about Reed’s marine journey, his love of helping 1st time boaters and his entrepreneurial spirit here.
Reed Nicol [Licensed FL Yacht Broker #11926]
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