At the Helm: Where Waterfront Living Meets Iconic Leisure
For those who love to sail, real estate decisions are guided by more than just location. It’s about access, proximity, and the ease of stepping from the living room onto the water without a second thought. Across yachting circles, waterfront homes aren’t simply retreats, they’re hubs for movement and memory. We spoke with agents across the Compass Luxury and Sports and Entertainment Division to understand how this clientele buys, builds, and lives with the water always within reach especially as they enjoy boating season.
What defines the boating lifestyle for today’s affluent buyer, and how does their home support it?
For serious boaters, the appeal is less about performance and more about precision, ease of movement from home to dock, and the kind of thoughtful design that supports leisure on their terms. “The lifestyle is a combination of location and proximity to the water, along with the right setup for ease of use,” says Eric Iantorno, pointing to seamless transitions as the gold standard. Liz Hogan agrees, noting that today’s buyers “want a lifestyle that is luxurious, easy, and comfortable,” and that their home should offer a streamlined entry point to unwind with family and friends. For many, like Scot Drucker’s clients, it comes down to freedom. “The ability to spontaneously drop anchor at The Wharf or Elliott Key is a major draw. Waterfront living delivers instant gratification.”
Beyond deep-water access, what features truly matter to these buyers?
While deep-water access is foundational, the serious boat enthusiast expects more: private dockage with lifts, intelligent storage, and integrated systems that support year-round use. “Proximity to the yacht club is a big consideration,” Eric says, “as is garage space for your toys.” For Scot, it’s the marriage of practicality and luxury that defines a great setup. “Private dock with lift and shore power are critical, yes. But so is intelligent design that allows for staging and storage without friction.” Liz emphasizes the importance of functionality, noting that “private dock, boat lift, and easy ocean access” are no longer wishlist items—they’re table stakes. And as Nicole Kessler puts it, it’s about “convenience and ease of use from home to dock,” a lifestyle that anticipates every detail.
Which regions are attracting yacht-driven buyers?
Geography matters, but lifestyle alignment matters more. From the sun-drenched marinas of Southern California to the warm waters of the Atlantic coast, yachting clients seek markets that accommodate both the sport and the social culture surrounding it. Eric sees high demand on both coasts, especially in areas like San Diego and Newport Beach. “South Florida is consistently a top choice,” Liz adds, referencing Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach as perennial favorites. Scot sees similar demand across the tri-county area, with clients drawn to accessibility and waterfront inventory. Nicole widens the scope: “Florida, California, Texas, and New England are all hotbeds,” each offering different appeal depending on whether the client prioritizes year-round access, seasonal yachting, or long-range excursions.
What design trends are emerging in these homes?
Functionality meets resort-level living in the newest wave of waterfront properties. “Sliding glass panel doors that completely open up the home” are a top trend, says Eric, allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. Scot focuses on what he calls “dock-to-dining flow,” a concept where a homeowner can step off the boat and walk directly into a design-forward kitchen built for entertaining. Liz keeps it succinct: “Tropical Modern.” Nicole agrees that the aesthetic is clean and modern, but always with a sense of place, allowing nature, views, and water access to become part of the architecture.
What amenities are surprising you with how quickly they’ve become essential?
Today’s buyers expect a level of ease, integration, and comfort that’s intuitive and invisible. “Buyers love tech, especially when it makes boating easier,” says Scot, citing automated lifts and remote monitoring as essentials. Liz points to smart home systems, security, and automation as table stakes, noting that “automated lighting and smart climate control are part of the package now.” Eric adds that even outdoor showers are becoming sought-after for their utility and luxury, something simple that fits the lifestyle without trying too hard. Nicole highlights a trend toward reducing friction entirely: “minimal distance from boat to home” is the real differentiator.
What advice do you give buyers when purchasing waterfront property?
These aren’t just homes with views, they’re functioning marine environments. Scot is quick to remind clients: “Check the water, not just the view. Just because it looks like deep water doesn’t mean it’s safe for docking.” Liz agrees, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the yacht fits perfectly and that depth, dockage, and accessibility align with the client’s needs. Eric focuses on long-term value, suggesting buyers understand zoning and lot size so they don’t face limitations later. Nicole advises looking at orientation, water exposure, and the difference between open water and canal living, all of which impact not only experience but maintenance and insurance as well.
How do homes in top yachting destinations stand apart?
There’s a premium placed on heritage and service in iconic yachting locales. “These communities are very expensive to live in, but you get what you pay for,” Eric says, citing the elevated culture that comes with places like Nantucket or the Keys. Scot points out how “tailored dockage and marina privileges” often separate these properties, offering a level of concierge-like access. Liz references the layered appeal of destinations like Monaco, where properties offer not just location, but built-in cachet. Nicole adds that “proximity to marinas can dictate the level of clientele, resale potential, and prestige” in a way that’s both tangible and strategic.
What does managing a boating-focused estate require behind the scenes?
Managing a luxury boating estate is a full-time commitment to quality, safety, and experience. “Dockage depth and access are the first things I look at,” says Scot. “Serious boaters aren’t weekend warriors, they need functionality year-round.” Liz stresses that upkeep extends beyond the home itself: “Managing a luxury estate means keeping docks, lifts, and all marine elements in top condition.” Nicole adds a layer of nuance: “Maintenance, environmental compliance, safety- all of it matters. And it’s not just about looking polished; it’s about functioning like a private resort.” For Eric, the balance is making sure the property feels effortless to use while never letting maintenance slide beneath the surface.