Halcyon and Beyond: Malta’s Leading Boat Loan Company

Have you ever pictured yourself at the helm of a luxury yacht, exploring the Mediterranean in comfort and style? For many, the dream of owning a vessel like the Sunreef 80 Halcyon feels both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to navigating the world of yacht financing.

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This guide is here to help you understand how individuals can make yacht ownership a reality, using St Julian’s Maritime Finance (Malta’s trusted boat loan company) as partners in the process. Along the way, we’ll share practical tips, common questions, and the story of Halcyon, a yacht that went from steel and scaffolding to a stunning presence in Maltese waters.

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Why Consider Yacht Financing?

Even for those with significant assets, financing a yacht can be a smart strategy. Here’s why many luxury buyers choose to work with a boat loan company:

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• Preserve Liquidity: Keep your capital available for other investments or opportunities.

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• Tax Efficiency: Malta’s leasing structures can offer VAT advantages and flexible payment options.

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• Flexible Ownership: Finance or lease your yacht, with the option to purchase outright at the end of the term.

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• Professional Support: Experienced financiers guide you through every step, from paperwork to registration.

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The Halcyon

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Last year, the Sunreef 80 Halcyon was little more than a hull under construction in Poland. Today, she’s a fully commissioned, 24.4-metre luxury sailing catamaran gracing Mediterranean waters, a testament to what’s possible when vision and expert planning come together.

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What truly sets Halcyon apart is her thoughtful design, which perfectly balances relaxation and adventure. With a beam of over 11 metres, the yacht offers remarkably spacious living areas. The main salon is bathed in natural light from panoramic windows and seamlessly connects to both the aft cockpit and the foredeck, creating a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow that’s ideal for socialising or simply soaking in the views. Accommodating up to eight guests in four luxurious cabins, including an oversized master suite and three VIP guest cabins, each with ensuite bathrooms, Halcyon is perfectly suited for families or groups of friends who value both privacy and comfort.

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Entertainment and comfort are at the heart of the Halcyon experience. The expansive flybridge provides breathtaking 360-degree views and features a sit-up bar, sun pads, and a versatile dining and lounge area, perfect for sunset cocktails or alfresco meals under the stars. Throughout the yacht, air conditioning and Wi-Fi connectivity ensure that guests remain comfortable and connected, no matter the weather or location. Luxury details abound, from the elegant teak decking to the sunken foredeck lounge with flexible tables and trampolines, as well as a hydraulic swim platform that makes water access effortless and inviting.

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For those seeking adventure, Halcyon is a true playground on the water. She comes fully equipped with a Jet Ski, Seabobs, wakeboards, waterskis, kayaks, fishing gear, kneeboards, and a variety of towable toys, along with a powerful tender for easy shore excursions. Whether guests crave high-octane thrills or a leisurely paddle along the coastline, Halcyon offers something for everyone. A professional crew of up to four ensures that every aspect of the journey is seamless, from gourmet dining to expert navigation, allowing guests to relax and enjoy every moment on board.

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Built with a GRP hull and superstructure, Halcyon delivers both stability and generous onboard space. She cruises comfortably at 8 knots and can reach speeds of up to 22 knots, powered by twin John Deere engines. More than just a yacht, Halcyon is a floating sanctuary designed for unforgettable journeys, whether exploring the hidden coves of the Mediterranean in summer or venturing to the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean in winter.

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What’s remarkable about Halcyon isn’t just her transformation but the planning and expertise that made her journey possible. For many owners, this includes partnering with a reputable boat loan company to manage the financial side of their yachting dreams.

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Read more news on yachts in our fleet here.

Step-by-Step: How Yacht Financing Works in Malta

1. Assess Your Goals and Budget

Start by considering: 

• The type and size of yacht you want (new build, like Halcyon, or pre-owned)
• Intended use (private, charter, or both)
• Your available down payment and desired monthly outlay

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2. Choose the Right Financing Partner

• Look for a boat loan company with:
• Experience in high-value yacht transactions
• Transparent terms and competitive rates
• Comprehensive support, from application to registration (St Julian’s Maritime Finance is a leading example, offering flexible leasing and financing solutions for yachts valued between €1 million and €20 million.)

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3. Understand the Financing Process

• Initial Consultation: Discuss your needs and get prequalified.
• Loan Structure: Decide between a financial lease (with ownership at the end) or an operating lease (with flexible use and lower upfront costs).
• Documentation: Prepare financial statements, proof of income, and details about the yacht.
• Approval and Closing: Review terms, sign agreements, and finalise the purchase or lease.

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4. Registration and Delivery

Malta’s ship registry is the largest in the EU, known for its robust legal protections and efficient processes. Your financier can assist with registration, compliance, and ongoing management.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is yacht financing only for new builds?

A: No, you can finance both new and well-maintained pre-owned yachts.

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Q: What are the tax benefits of financing in Malta?

A: Malta’s leasing structures can completely defer VAT initial purchase (even in private-use cases) and offer other fiscal advantages.

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Q: Can I use my yacht for charter?

A: Yes, many owners offset costs by chartering their yacht. 

Tips for a Smooth Yacht Financing Experience

When considering yacht financing, it’s wise to work with specialists in yacht finance rather than general lenders, as their expertise can streamline the process and help you avoid common pitfalls. Preparing your documents early will speed up approval, ensuring a smoother transaction from start to finish. Be sure to budget for additional expenses such as insurance, crew salaries, maintenance, and mooring fees, as these can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask your financing partner for references or case studies; this can provide valuable insight into their track record and the experiences of other clients.

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The journey of Halcyon, from a vision in a shipyard to a luxury yacht in Maltese waters, shows what’s possible with the right planning and support. Whether you’re buying your first yacht or upgrading to a superyacht, Malta’s experienced boat loan companies like St Julian’s Maritime Finance can help you chart a course to ownership while preserving your financial flexibility.

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Reach out for a confidential consultation and discover how easy it can be to make your own yachting dreams a reality.

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