Moving Up: What It's Like to Go from a 28' Boat to a 72' Yacht

What is it really like to jump from a 28-foot cruiser to a 72-foot motor yacht?

In this episode of Floatplan, Matt Maynard and Tim Boyle sit down aboard M/Y Marie with owners John and Nancy Tremper to discuss their journey from a Cutwater 28 to a 72' Ocean Alexander. They share how they chose the right boat, what surprised them most during the buying process, and why bigger doesn't have to mean more intimidating.

The conversation covers the realities of finding moorage, navigating today's yacht insurance market, the value of professional captain training, and how modern technology—including thrusters, yacht controllers, and lithium battery systems—makes handling a larger yacht more approachable than many people expect.

John and Nancy also discuss what it's like to live aboard for four months each year, entertain family and friends, build relationships with trusted service providers, and develop communication systems that make operating a large yacht as a two-person crew both safe and enjoyable.

Whether you're considering moving into a larger yacht or simply curious about what ownership is really like, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest experiences, and lessons learned that can help make your own transition smoother.