The Value of Doing Research

Buying a Hampton Yachts Endurance 700 (Skylounge) is a big step for anyone interested in exploring the water comfortably and safely. Doing your research before making this decision helps you find the right yacht for your needs. This process includes learning about model features, layout choices, build quality, and understanding what makes this model a favorite among boaters who want a mix of space, reliability, and convenience. When you learn all you can in advance, you’re less likely to be surprised after the purchase. It allows you to look out for the details that actually matter, especially when comparing different boats or talking to owners who share their experiences. Be sure to have a checklist and take notes so you stay organized.

Understanding the Hampton Yachts Endurance 700 (Skylounge) Line

The Hampton Yachts Endurance 700 (Skylounge) is known for its performance and comfort. The key point about this boat is the hull design, which combines stability and speed, making it easy to move at a steady pace with less fuel waste. A semi-displacement hull means the boat doesn’t just push through the water— it partially glides on top, so you get a smoother ride and a bit more control in rougher water. Many buyers like the spacious skylounge, a raised enclosed area with comfortable seating, extra visibility for the captain, and a popular spot for guests to relax or enjoy panoramic views. Strong handrails, clear walkways, and smart placement of controls make it safe to move around, even when things are a little bumpy. The Endurance 700’s design shows its makers listened to real-world feedback about what works best on long or short trips.

Builder’s Philosophy and Build Quality

Hampton Yachts puts care into construction, focusing on strong materials and time-tested building methods. From the core hull to the smallest cabinet detail, the Endurance 700 (Skylounge) is made for daily life at sea. The hand-laid fiberglass hull gives strength without adding extra weight, resulting in a boat that is sturdy but not impossible to handle or maintain. Stringers (the long supports inside the hull) are foam-filled to keep the ride quiet and cut down on vibration, which is a real plus when cruising. Every joint is sealed properly, and there’s attention to how windows, doors, and hatches are installed—these seals keep out water and minimize the need for long-term repairs. Stainless steel stanchions, cleats, and deck hardware hold up well against rust and constant exposure to salt or fresh water. Most wood cabinetry is finished with marine-grade lacquer, and glue joints are reinforced so drawers and cupboard doors don’t shift or squeak over time. The floors are usually solid teak or another durable hardwood with a soft non-slip coating or finish.

Key Specs: Size, Layout, and Capacity

The Endurance 700 (Skylounge) usually measures about 70 feet overall length, with a beam approaching 18 feet. This means plenty of width for wide side decks and for creating roomy living areas inside. Draft is important—the Endurance 700 often draws under 5 feet, letting you get close to most docks and anchor in shallower coves. Displacement (total weight) is heavy enough for stability in wind and waves but not so much that it needs huge engines or extra crew. You’ll likely find three or four staterooms (bedrooms), and each has enough storage for gear, clothes, and travel supplies. En-suite bathrooms provide privacy, and there’s often a crew quarters or utility room with bunks and an extra bathroom, perfect if you want to bring along a captain, deckhand, or family friend. The cockpit (back deck) is set up for dining or fishing, while the foredeck (front area) sometimes includes sunpads, a cushioned seating nook, and storage lockers.

Engine, Power, and Performance

The heart of the Endurance 700 (Skylounge) is usually a pair of diesel engines, commonly by brands like Caterpillar, Cummins, or MAN, all of which are known for reliability and easy access to spare parts. These engines offer a good blend of power and efficiency, allowing steady speeds for long-range trips without burning more fuel than necessary. In many cases, the cruising speed is right around 8–12 knots, with a top speed in the range of 16–20 knots if you need to get somewhere faster. Range at hull speed can exceed 1,000 miles depending on conditions, fuel load, and engine set-up. Dual generators are common, providing back-up in case one needs service, and there’s a full battery bank for running lights, navigation, and creature comforts when you aren’t using the generator. Stabilizer fins (often active and hydraulic) help reduce roll—especially useful in beam seas and when you want to spend a calm night anchored out. Bow and stern thrusters greatly improve maneuverability in crowded marinas.

Living Aboard: Main Salon, Galley, and Skylounge

Daily life on this yacht is centered on comfort and usability. The main salon (living room) is decked out with buttery-soft sofas, a formal dining area, and plenty of windows for daylight and fresh air. LED lighting is standard and includes both task and mood lighting for different times of day. The galley is laid out like a home kitchen, with a full-size refrigerator, stove, convection microwave oven, dishwasher, and granite or solid-surface counters that are durable and easy to clean. Pantries and deep drawers hold canned food, snacks, and dishes, while underfloor storage is great for pots, pans, or provisions for longer trips. The skylounge area above serves as a second living room or den with 360-degree views. It has its own wet bar, entertainment system, and often a settee that converts to extra sleeping space. This is a favorite spot during bad weather or when you want quiet time away from the action below.

Staterooms and Guest Comfort

Sleeping arrangements on the Endurance 700 (Skylounge) include a roomy master stateroom, usually placed mid-ship for minimal rocking at anchor, and featuring a queen or king-sized bed with storage underneath. Nightstands, dressers, and mirrored closets make long stays more comfortable, and sound insulation in the walls keeps engine or generator noise to a minimum. The master bath often has dual sinks, a shower with a seat, and non-slip floors. Guest cabins range from one with a double bed to one or two with twin bunks—each with its own reading lights, climate controls, and storage cabinets. Crew or overflow bunk space is usually at the back (aft) with its own head (bathroom), so you aren’t sharing your main living space with helpers unless you want to. Air conditioning and heating are individually zoned for each cabin, letting each person control their own level of comfort.

Storage, Laundry, and Everyday Features

Storage is key on the Endurance 700 (Skylounge), with space designed into floorboards, steps, and behind settees. There’s hanging closet space for longer items and pull-out drawers for shoes, workout gear, or electronics. The yacht often features a stacked washer and dryer hidden in a closet, useful for day-to-day living while underway. Outdoor lockers on the stern deck hold cleaning supplies, fishing gear, and deck shoes, keeping dirt and clutter out of the main living spaces. Stainless steel barbecue grills can be found in cockpit areas, and many layouts offer a utility sink or prep counter outdoors. Teak decking on outside areas resists slips and is cooler underfoot compared to fiberglass.

Communication and Navigation Systems

Onboard electronics are modern and set up for practical day-to-day use and longer crossings. The Endurance 700 (Skylounge) includes large touch-screen chartplotters at the helm, radar for night or fog, and VHF or satellite phones for clear communication. Autopilot helps with long straight courses, and depth sounders with audible alarms make it less likely you’ll surprise yourself with shallow spots. Most models use standardized network wiring so you can add or swap out electronics as technology advances. Navigation screens are placed for easy viewing, and integrated system controls mean you don’t have to be a tech expert to tweak settings. Cabling for music, WiFi, and television is routed behind walls, and there are charging outlets for phones and tablets in every main space.

Safety Systems and Equipment

All Hampton Endurance yachts are built to a high safety standard. Besides fire extinguishers and smoke alarms in each living area, there are emergency escape hatches in staterooms and the galley. The engine room’s fire suppression system can be triggered by hand or happens automatically if high heat is detected. Watertight doors separate the engine space from the rest of the boat, and strong bilge pumps with float switches operate automatically to keep water out. Medical kits are stored near the bridge for fast access. Deck rails are at least waist-high, and lifelines are placed at common boarding locations. Life rafts, flares, signal horns, and throw-rings are stored where needed, with checklists for monthly safety checks.

Fuel, Water, and Utilities

Long trips require smart fuel and water planning. The Endurance 700 (Skylounge) has large tanks for both diesel and fresh water, often with gauges at both the helm and a service panel. Dual water pumps supply pressure to bathrooms and the galley, with a hot water system for showers and washing. A watermaker (desalinator) can be added for making fresh water from seawater, extending your time away from port. Sewage from toilets (heads) is stored in holding tanks and pumped out at marinas. Gray water (from sinks and showers) drains to a different tank or is pumped overboard where allowed by law. Noise and vibration are kept at a minimum by using soft mounting for pumps and equipment.

Reliability in Open Water

The Endurance 700 (Skylounge) is designed for both near-shore cruising and open-water travel. The hull’s shape and overall weight make it steady even in strong wind or waves, and most models have built-in redundancy—like two engines, two generators, and backup navigation—to keep you going if something breaks down. Multi-layer backup for key systems ensures you’re less likely to be stuck if a pump or battery fails. Eastern and southern U.S. coasts, Caribbean passages, and European coastal routes all suit this yacht’s range. Although not the fastest, the focus is on safe, steady motion for long distances.

Trim, Fittings, and Deck Space

Exterior spaces are a major draw. The cockpit is finished with easy-to-clean, non-skid teak and hosts seating for lounging or dining. A swim platform extends the back—great for boarding a dinghy, fishing, or swimming—and may include a hydraulic lift for launching water toys or personal watercraft. Strong cleats, winches, and anchor gear make it simple to tie up or set the anchor. Steps leading from deck to deck include sturdy handrails, with molded treads for grip. Sunshades are built into the hardtop, but additional canvas awnings or screens can be added to block the sun or wind when needed.

Comfort Systems: HVAC, Fresh Air, and Extras

An advanced heating and cooling system with separate controls for each room means every guest can stay comfortable, whether you’re in Maine in spring or Florida in summer. Air is filtered, and screened hatches let you bring in fresh breezes without letting bugs in. Extra fans in engine and utility rooms keep things dry and odor-free. Central vacuum systems make cleaning quick and easy. Dimmer switches on lights and LED reading lights next to every bed let you set the mood or conserve power at night.

Design for Easy Upkeep

A big plus of the Endurance 700’s design is that it’s made to make life simple for the owner and crew. Smooth surface finishes and smart placement of service panels make weekly or seasonal chores simple. You can lift teak deck sections or wall panels to get at hardware, plumbing, or wiring. Color-coded pipes make it easy for any technician, and all wiring looms have clear tags for fast ID. The gelcoat on exterior surfaces stands up well to scrubbing and sun but is simple to repair if chipped. Removable window screens, washable cushion covers, and hidden drains keep maintenance from piling up out of sight.

Common Upgrades and Changes Owners Make

Most new owners add a few personal touches. This could be a bigger grill on the aft deck, extra freezers for longer trips, new stereo speakers, high-speed satellite internet, or underwater lights for swimming after dark. Some add soft-close hinges on cabinet doors or swap out carpets for hard floors in high-traffic areas. Remote monitoring lets you check bilge, security, and fridge temps from your phone, providing peace of mind. Yachting gear, water toys, and kayaks can be added—just check local lift ratings on platforms and cranes to stay within safety limits.

Owners’ Experiences and Feedback

Owners often say the Hampton Endurance 700 (Skylounge) feels like a floating home. The raised skylounge is a main highlight because it allows for good views and offers a quiet, weatherproof retreat. Guest cabins keep visitors comfortable and the galley design makes preparing meals with family or friends easy, even on longer routes. Many owners favor the reliable systems—they mention few surprises as long as routine checks are followed. The comfort and quiet ride get high marks, as does the after-sales support from knowledgeable professionals who answer questions and help arrange service. Some owners note the importance of planning upgrades or electronics replacements well ahead of time, as more complex systems might take longer to deliver or install.

Pros and Cons to Weigh

Pros:

• Wide, stable hull
• Skylounge with raised views
• Well-planned staterooms and storage
• Durable materials and finishes
• Reliable engine and mechanical systems
• Quiet and efficient HVAC

Cons:

• May need a captain or crew for complex travel
• Larger size means more regular maintenance
• Cost of spare parts and possible upgrades can add up
• Not the fastest boat—designed for comfort, not speed

Practical Tips for Viewing and Testing

When viewing a Hampton Yachts Endurance 700 (Skylounge), check the engine hours and look over all routine maintenance logs—these tell you a lot about care and possible wear. Inspect seals around hatches and windows for signs of leaks. Test the generator, air conditioning, and all major appliances to see how they work. Open service panels and check the condition of hoses, electrical systems, and water pumps. Walk all deck spaces—feel for softness underfoot, which can point to hidden water damage. If possible, arrange a test run to experience the boat’s motion in both calm and choppy water.

Key Questions for Brokers and Owners

• How many hours on engines, generators, and stabilizers?
• Any major repairs or accidents in the yacht’s history?
• Are the electronics original or upgraded recently?
• How old are the main batteries and when last replaced?
• What items or gear come with the sale?
• Have there been recent surveys or insurance appraisals?
• Are crew quarters fully separated or do they share space with guests?
• Any records of recurring issues?

Making Sure It’s the Right Choice

Everybody has their own list of must-haves; make yours before starting your search. Think about where you’ll use the yacht, how many people you’ll regularly bring onboard, how comfortable you are with do-it-yourself maintenance, and whether you’ll travel long distances. If you plan to enjoy seasonal trips, check climate controls and window shading. If you want to host family for overnight stays, focus on guest cabins and bathroom layouts. Consider insurance requirements and whether you’ll need regular professional help or can do many jobs yourself.

Why Broker Help Makes a Difference

Working with expert brokers is a smart way to avoid hassle. A good broker knows model-specific details, has access to current and coming inventory, arranges viewings, and helps with the paperwork and inspections needed for a smooth purchase. They keep up with feedback from owners, know about coming industry trends, and can recommend specialists for upgrades or storage. Their advice often speeds up the buying process and saves you from costly mistakes caused by inexperience or hurried buying.

The Fly Yachts Difference

At Fly Yachts, the goal is to be a straightforward, knowledgeable partner at every step. The team knows the details of the Hampton Yachts Endurance 700 (Skylounge) and helps you sort through specs, features, and layouts so you get a yacht that fits your plans. If you want to walk through available boats or need advice about models and setup, talk to a Fly Yachts team member today.

Fly Yachts offers everything you need for a luxury yachting and aviation experience from their homepage, where you can browse a full selection of yachts for sale including luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, learn more about their team and history on the About Us page, and explore custom build options at Build a Yacht. The site also features charter destinations around the world, in-depth guides and news in Compass Articles and Gulfstream News, expert support to Sell Your Yacht, flexible yachts charter options, listings of aircraft for sale for private aviation, and a contact page for any questions or assistance.