Charter broker, Neptune Group Yachting

Date interviewed: April 2009

How did you get started as a charter broker?

I started working within the yachting industry by joining Merrill-Stevens Yachts in 1984 as a listing secretary in their brokerage division. In the early part of the ’90s I started handling charter inquiries on their behalf.  In 1996 a wonderful opportunity arose with a well-established charter company in Fort Lauderdale, where I worked for the next 11 years in all aspects of the charter industry. I gained immense knowledge from two prominent and very successful charter brokers. 
     In 2007, I joined DJ Parker, president and charter agent of Neptune Group Yachting, to extend my knowledge and pursue my passion as an international charter agent.

What kind of boats to you book?

I book a wide variety of boats worldwide. They range from U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessels for corporate functions and special occasions to high-end, half-million-dollar megayachts. I specialize in both sail and power.

What are some of the best charter destinations you’ve personally visited?

Since joining Neptune Group Yachting, I have traveled extensively to exotic cruising areas such as the East and West Mediterranean, Dubai, and the Caribbean. I will be traveling to Greece next month. I definitely recommend the islands of the Caribbean, and the most beautiful waters can be found in Belize … my homeland.

What is the first thing you ask a charter client? 

Besides asking if they have chartered a yacht before, I always ask where they heard about Neptune Group Yachting.  It’s smart to know what advertising venues are working for you even if it’s a referral.

Describe your ideal charter client.

The ideal charter client presents their required parameters for their vacation, whether they expect a formal level of service or are more casual, that sort of thing. Ideal clients are flexible and understand that there are certain things over which we have no control, such as the weather.

Describe your nightmare charter client.

Fortunately, I have not yet experienced a client that I would call a nightmare. There certainly are challenges that arise, but I am determined to continue working on every issue to ensure everyone’s satisfaction.

Describe a previous booking where you worked “above and beyond” for a client.

Recently, I found myself fully enmeshed with a large party chartering a 237-foot yacht that required hands-on assistance with the U.S. Port Authority.  The marketing agent was in Greece, which meant I was literally up 24 hours coordinating the last-minute details and escorting clients in and out of the restricted port area. 

What are a few of your favorite charter yachts?

The ones listed in Neptune Group’s fleet.  On a daily basis, I admire the teamwork among our yacht owners, our fleet manager, our company owners, our crew, and our staff. It all goes into making each charter vacation a success. 

Who are a few of your favorite yacht crew?

While there are many great crew that I know well, I really enjoyed working with Captain Nikos and his dynamic crew onboard the 237-foot motoryacht RM Elegant. Another savvy Captain is David Laird onboard the 112-foot Westport motoryacht Andiamo.

What makes you different from other charter brokers?

Not that it makes me different, but I strive to deliver the highest level of service and assistance not only to clients but also to other industry members to ensure successful charters.

What else should Charter Wave readers know about you?

That I thoroughly enjoy the work I do, meeting people and listening to their experiences.  There is nothing professionally more satisfying than hearing about the clients’ memorable times spent on vacation with their loved ones, family or friends.

How can Charter Wave readers contact you?

My phone number at Neptune Group Yachting’s office is (954) 524-7978. My cell is (954) 632-9270, and my e-mail is This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it