YACHTING
Story
A whole new world
When I first stepped into the yachting industry, I knew absolutely nothing about it. Sure, my father had a sport fishing boat in Guatemala, and we spent countless weekends on the water. But back then, I had no clue that an entire industry existed behind the shimmering hulls and billowing sails. I didn’t know that there was a world where billionaires sailed in floating palaces, where deals were closed on sun-drenched decks, and where entire careers revolved around the art and science of luxury on the seas.
From Private banking to Yachting
Fast forward to Monaco, where I pursued my studies in finance. I landed my first job as a private banker in this glamorous hub of wealth and yachts. It felt like I was on top of the world—until 2008 came crashing down on me. I lost my job, and with it, the vision I had of my career. I was at a crossroads, feeling lost but determined not to let this setback define me.
My first break in yachting came as a supplier for yachts in Antibes. It was a job that taught me the ropes (quite literally) and gave me a taste of the industry. But I wanted more. I wanted to become an expert—a trusted voice in this exclusive world. So, I moved on to become a yacht manager for a boutique firm in Monaco. But even then, I felt the weight of my inexperience. There were no resources, no courses, no guidebooks. How does one learn about yacht design, building, brokerage, or even the complex legalities of yachting? I had no idea.
Networking to Build Knowledge
That’s when I realized it wasn't just about what you know but who you know. So, in 2013, I launched Young Professionals in Yachting at the Yacht Club de Monaco. My vision was simple: learn from the best and network with the right people. It worked. I met yacht owners, captains, brokers, and industry leaders. Yet, I was still hungry for more knowledge.
The Relentless Pursuit of Expertise
Determined to understand every facet of the industry, I embarked on an MBA journey that took me from Boston to Dubai to London. This wasn’t just about getting a degree—it was about filling the gaps in my knowledge. My determination paid off when I was hired as the Commercial Director for a prestigious shipyard in the Netherlands. I found myself at the heart of large superyacht new builds and refits, working alongside naval architects, marine lawyers, and designers.
I was like a sponge, soaking up every detail. I asked questions—endlessly. Every conversation was an opportunity to learn. But just when I was gaining momentum, the world stopped. COVID-19 changed everything. Yet, it was the silver lining I never saw coming.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
With time on my hands and curiosity still burning, I set out on a mission. I interviewed over 95 of the top experts in the yachting industry, from naval architects to lawyers, designers, and brokers. It was a massive undertaking, but I was on a quest for knowledge—not just for myself, but for anyone else navigating the complexities of yachting. This journey culminated in writing the first-ever book on the superyacht industry.
I didn’t stop there. When the world began to open up, I was approached by the Yacht Club de Monaco to train professionals in yachting. Broker houses wanted personalized training programs. But I didn’t want to just be a trainer. I wanted to empower others to grow, to evolve, and to lead in yachting. That’s why I launched the Yachting Masterclass, open to anyone eager to learn about this exclusive world.
Creating the Resources I Wish I Had
When I started, there were no resources for professionals to learn about all the different roles in yachting—naval architects, lawyers, brokers, designers, marina managers, captains, and crew. I was constantly searching, always feeling like I was playing catch-up. That frustration drove me to create the resources I needed myself. It wasn’t just about my growth; it was about transforming an industry that was too closed, too secretive.
Building Trust and Authority
I’m a consultant, working with yacht owners, business leaders, governments, marinas, and even yacht paint companies. I help them build sales and marketing strategies and advise them on business development. In 2021, I noticed that yachting companies were struggling with social media, while my own accounts were gaining massive traction. Seeing an opportunity, I launched a marketing agency specialized in yachting, bringing together a team of top talent—graphic designers, website builders, photographers, videographers, and social media managers.
A Trusted Advisor to Yacht Owners
Living between Monaco and Dubai, combined with my background in finance and my husband’s work as a wealth advisor for UHNWI (Ultra High Net Worth Individuals), I found myself uniquely positioned to advise yacht owners. They came to me for personalized, unbiased guidance—questions they were too embarrassed to ask their brokers. Whether they were buying, selling, or building a new yacht, I became their trusted confidante.
empowering others
Yachting is a small industry, and reputation is everything. That’s why I curated private online communities where professionals support each other. From women in yachting to broker communities sharing market insights, these groups are about collaboration, growth, and trust. If you’re looking to connect with the best in the industry, apply here to join the exclusive superyacht community!
