Ed Hamilton, Ed Hamilton & Co.
The first misconception is that brokers have a limited fleet of boats they can offer. Everyone works from the same pool of yachts worldwide, so there is no advantage in choosing a broker advertising a “bigger” or “better” fleet. Your emphasis should be on finding a successful broker with plenty of years’ experience in a wide range of yachts and cruising grounds, who has a genuine interest in learning more about your plans and about the people in your party.
    Every industry has its share of slick salesmen who can “get you a deal,” but if the boat or, more important, the crew doesn’t mesh with your group, it’s not good value regardless of the low price you paid. A broker should advise you, not sell you. Likewise, there are some Web-based brokers who ask you to select from a list of boats on a site before even asking for any details about you or your group. A broker should be much more than an online booking agent. A good broker might send you an initial selection to show the types of boats available, but will take the time to learn more about you before making suggestions. He or she will explain the importance of matching you and your guests up with both boat and crew.
    The second misconception is that you can get further by working with more than one broker. Certainly look around, but once you find someone you feel comfortable communicating with, stick with them. Nothing will put a boat off faster than if the owner gets the same request from several brokers, and the brokers, once they see this happening, will take your request less seriously. Your broker should be a partner who gets to know your wishes over the years and can repeatedly find you the perfect yacht to fit your plans.

Beverly Parsons, Interpac Yachts
In seeking out a professional in any field, it is important to ask the right questions. In the case of selecting the right charter broker, such questions should include: How long has your company been in business? Have you personally inspected the yachts that you are offering? Do you also know the destination? Are you licensed or bonded? Do you belong to reputable associations such as the American Yacht Charter Association or CYBA International? How will my financial deposits be kept safe? Do you have associates in the country where I plan to travel who are able to assist with land arrangements?  
    A truly professional charter broker should have no problem answering questions like these. The right charter agent provides guidance, experience, convenience, and security.

Janet Bloomfield, President, International Yacht Charter Group
Every broker has different skills, and every broker works well with different kinds of people. Figure out what information you need to trust a broker. I would look for clarity of information, responsiveness, a feeling that you’re getting honest answers to your questions, plus knowledge about boats and crews and destinations. The onus is a bit on you as the client, particularly when you’re new to a broker, because you have to ask the broker questions. I’ve had clients who have asked me for references, and I have no problem with that.
    At the end of the day, it comes down to trust. Most of my clients are seasoned professionals who have a strong gut instinct with a solid knowledge base behind it. If you’ve worked with a good broker in the past and you trust them, then go back to them. Just bear in mind that not every broker has access to every boat, and not every broker does business the same way.