Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust (WYCCT) takes care of the only surviving fleet of Norfolk wherries - Hathor , Olive , Norada and White Moth - and is the successor to the non-profit company Wherry Yacht Charter. You can read more about the wherries' history and current status here .
The Trust was established in 2002 to secure the future of the wherries and allow access to a wider range of funding opportunities. Its stated aims are to restore, maintain and preserve Hathor , Olive and Norada for public benefit, to foster skills related to these activities, and enable education on wherries' important historic and cultural importance in the Broads.
The original three wherries were acquired in 2004, following an award of £492,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) towards their purchase and restoration. In 2010 the HLF awarded a further £148,000 - however the entire award requires match funding at a ratio of approximately 2:1, that is, for every £2 raised and spent the Trust can claim £1 from the HLF money.
In 2012 the Trust acquired the use of White Moth for charter purposes, bringing a new source of much-needed income.
The Wherries
As well as finishing the living accommodation to a standard suitable for charter, the electrical, gas and other systems must all meet current safety regulations - which can be something of a challenge on a historic vessel! On the outside, one of the larger tasks has been to replace the linoleum on the deck and coach roof. She is now operational for day, weekend and weekly charters.
www.wherryyachtcharter.org
National Historic Ships UK acknowledges the financial support of its sponsors
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The old-fashioned way: Exploring the Norfolk Broads by wherry boat
The wherry boats of Norfolk had their day and almost passed into history; now they’re bringing old-fashioned pleasure cruising back to the Broads…
Y o u can just imagine the parties that were held here,” said Andrew Scull as I gazed around in wonder at the saloon of the Ardea, its teak-panelled walls so highly varnished that I could almost see my reflection. A small piano sat invitingly in the corner, and a wall-mounted brass ship’s bell was just crying out to be used.
The Ardea dates back to 1927 and was the last of Norfolk ’s pleasure wherries to be built. I could just picture elegant women in flapper dresses pouting and posing in this very spot, perhaps spending the night here as I was about to. Oh, the stories that the Ardea could tell.
Andrew is her owner, and also chairman of the Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust (WYCCT). He filled me in on the history of Norfolk’s historic sailing crafts, designed to navigate the network of shallow rivers and lakes that make up the 300sq km area known as the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads.
Wherries date back to the early 17th century, when they were used as trading craft to ferry cargo across the area. They were made redundant when the railways reached this part of the UK, but when the Victorians discovered the Broads as a leisure destination at the turn of the 20th century, some wherries were converted into pleasure craft; others were purpose-built for the task. The Ardea was the last of the pleasure wherries to hit the water.
Today there are only eight wherries left in existence, of which five are managed by the WYCCT. They are used for day sails and charters, to pay for their restoration and upkeep, and also to spread the word on this unique historic craft.
Learning the wherry way
Joined by some other guests, we drank Norfolk gin and tonic while Andrew told colourful tales of Ardea’s history. In 1947, she had been bought by Lady Flora Conway-Cutcliffe, who, according to the craft’s former skipper, hosted wild weekends on her with a host of celebrities in tow. Film star and ukulele virtuoso George Formby, who had fallen deeply in love with this part of the world and had even bought a house here, was known to be a regular.
the Albion was originally built for a firm of Bungay maltsters, and her first job was hauling coal – now she carries visitors (Alamy)
The Hathor lies moored on the River Ant by How Hill (Alamy)
In the late 1950s, after a couple more changes of ownership, the Ardea was taken to Paris to be used as a houseboat. By the mid 1960s, she had been bought by a Parisian madame and was being used by her “girls” for somewhere to rest. She was then owned by a Frenchman for nearly 40 years and used as a charter vessel around the canals of France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany, before being brought back to Norfolk in 2005 and restored to her former glory.
It was a warm August evening, so after dinner at a local pub, we headed back to the Ardea and sat on her roof. A few swans and ducks had milled around the boat earlier in the evening, but now a bevy of swans was gliding by – I lost count after 40 or so. I then realised that they were following a kayak that had stopped further up to throw out food for them.
It was then time to lie back on the sloping roof and look to the skies. The Perseid meteor shower was already at its peak, and shooting stars were leaving trails across the heavens. With little light pollution, and the only sound that of lapping water, we each sank into a spellbound reverie.
The Hathor (Wherry Yacht Charter)
Reluctantly deciding it was time for bed, I slept well in my wood-panelled state room, which was like a museum piece with its brass fittings, original wardrobe and cupboard. A hatch at one end would have been used for passing through drinks. A slightly raised area may have been where a cot lay, or a dog bed.
Setting sail
After breakfast, we transferred to a yacht wherry, the White Moth. Dating back to 1915, she would have been built with racing in mind, and was the last yacht wherry to take to the water. After a chequered history of mixed fortunes – as a charter, a houseboat, being sunk and then neglected – she was restored to her former glory in the late 1980s.
We headed off along the River Bure, and skipper Dean Howard instructed two of our party to get on the winch at the bow of the boat and wind until the sail was raised. We all smiled at the sight of the large white sail standing proud as Dean tacked along the river.
Our route was lined with holiday homes and desirable houses, most with characteristic thatched roofs made from local reeds. We even passed the mansion that belonged to the late George Formby. Pleasure boats went by, some with smiling passengers waving at us or taking a photograph; one or two impatiently tried to pass us despite the 4mph limit. Then the banks on each side got wilder and more natural, and we started to see herons, butterflies, wildflowers and dragonflies rather than other boats.
Swans gliding past (Wherry Yacht Charter)
Interior of the Hathor (Wherry Yacht Charter)
Sailing on the Hathor (Wherry Yacht Charter)
We turned onto Wroxham Broad, a lively wind blowing across its vast expanse. While people refer to the whole area as the Broads, a broad is the name given to the shallow lakes that pepper the area. It was finally proved in the 1960s that these were man-made rather than naturally occuring, and that they began as pits that had been dug for peat to provide fuel during medieval times.
In one area, dozens of children were having dinghy sailing lessons. In the distance, we could see another wherry, the privately-owned Solace. I found myself nodding to her. Dean manoeuvred the White Moth around the broad, using the wind to give us a taste of her speed under sail, and I marvelled at his handling of her as he stood braced against the tiller and seemed to be part of the wherry itself.
We headed to one side of the Broad and stopped for lunch in a secluded spot. As we munched on sandwiches, I kept watching the water between a fallen tree and the bank, curious at the ripples. A shape arced into view and I grabbed my binoculars. It was an otter, presumably fishing, and we all traced its progress for a while as the fish in its path jumped out of the water in an effort to get away.
The lost art of quanting (Wherry Yacht Charter)
We headed back to base but my weekend of wherries wasn’t yet over as I drove a few miles to How Hill, site of an educational trust and where another very special pleasure wherry was based for the summer. Dating back to 1905, the Hathor, named after the Egyptian goddess of love and beauty, was commissioned by the Colman family (of mustard fame). I hadn’t read up on her before my visit and, on boarding, I was startled by her dazzling interior, her sycamore-panelled walls embellished with Egyptian hieroglyphs formed by the use of inlaid teak.
The Hathor had been built in memory of Alan Colman, son of Jeremiah Colman, an MP and owner of the family company. In 1897, suffering from tuberculosis, he went to Egypt in an attempt to improve his health. The family chartered a dahabiyah, a traditional sailing barge, for a Nile cruise from Cairo to Luxor.
Alan sadly passed away a few days afterwards but his sisters, knowing how much he had loved the dahabiyah journey, commissioned the Hathor a few years later. Its interior was designed by prominent architect Edward Boardman, who married into the Colman family and lived in How Hill House, its Egyptian-themed symbols and fittings copied from originals on display in the British museum.
That night, I dreamt of young Alan Colman and his Nile cruise. And then the dream morphed into a sparkling party aboard the Ardea. I don’t think I was in a flapper dress, but I will certainly make more of an effort to look the part next time I have the privilege of staying on her.
Top wildlife to spot
(Shutterstock)
You’ll hear one long before you ever see it. The bittern (or “butterbump” as it’s known in Norfolk) has a sonic-boom of a mating call, which can be heard up to 2km away (March–June).
Chinese water deer
This tiny, shy deer was brought to the UK in the 19th century. Today it is faring better in the British wilds than back in its native Asia. It hides among the tall plants and is a powerful swimmer when required.
Swallowtail
The pale-yellow and black swallowtail is one of the UK’s most exotic butterflies, yet it’s increasingly rare since the 19th century. Look out for them flitting around the milkweed blooms.
Otters were in danger of disappearing from the Broads in the 1970s. Habitat loss threatened their very existence. Now they’re thriving and can be spotted on riverbanks across the area.
You can see how streamlined the White Moth is when compared with the larger Ardea (Wherry Yacht Charter)
About the trip
Wherry Yacht Charter offers a programme of day sailings and also private charters. The season for both is May to September but trips depend on skipper and crew availability. Up to ten passengers can be taken on day sailings. The wherries are offered on a self-catering basis and facilities include a fully equipped galley with hob, oven and fridge, a toilet, washbasins and a shower (White Moth only). Each saloon provides both daytime living space and four berths, and features a yacht piano. For overnight charters you need to provide your own bedding.
The Hathor is in residence at How Hill for the summer (June to September), with staffed viewings from 10am to 5pm whenever volunteers are available and if she is not in use for sailing. Please contact the Trust to confirm availability if you are making a special trip. Viewings are always free, but donations are more than appreciated.
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The Wherry Yacht Charter Story (1950s-2019)
Peter grew up on the Norfolk Broads before starting his career on the railways at Wroxham Station. He later went on to teach at Cromer Secondary Modern School before collecting wherries. Peter is one of the founders of the Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust.
Growing up on the Broads
I’ve lived in Wroxham since about 1950 when I was only seven years old, so it’s been very much part of my life. I’ve had the good fortune to live in a house that has a known river frontage as well and so I’ve know the river for a very long time. I was sent away to public school and so did not have a lot of contact with other youngsters in my area. If I could re-write history that’s one thing I would change but obviously one can’t. I still have lots of fond memories of my childhood and still live in the same house that I did as a child after inheriting it from my parents.
Sometimes people ask me when did you learn to sail and I’m afraid my answer is I wasn’t taught to sail or anything like that. My father had a sailing yacht and we had a little lugsail dinghy as a tender to it and I think he just let me go out in it. So I learnt to sail just by having a go basically.
Amazingly living by the river I actually, just a year or two before I left school, got interested in something miles away from the river. I got interested in railways and when I left school I went to work on the railway at Wroxham station. Initially it was meant to be only for a year and then I was going to go to university but that didn’t happen. Manchester is a long way away and it rained all the while and three weeks was more than enough, so I had a five-year career on the railways.
Working on the 1960s railways
I started as a booking clerk and I finished up as a relief station master. Unfortunately, I joined in 1961 which is exactly the same year as a certain Dr Richard Beeching joined and, although I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the railway and wouldn’t have changed it at all, it was the end of an era. The railways in 1961 were very similar to the railways in 1901, very little had changed. In 1965, when I left, closures were taking place left right and centre. It was a depressing industry to work in and many people in this area thought it was a dying industry as did the government I think.
Career as a teacher
After leaving the railways, because I had been involved in the local church and got persuaded to teach in Sunday school, I changed into that direction so I went into teaching.
I didn’t want to go away to college so I did my training at Keswick Hall between1965 to 1968. Most of the course was extremely boring but you had to do it to get your Certificate of Education which was enough for me to go and teach at Cromer Secondary Modern School as it was then. I had to pay for it myself because I was obviously a mature student then and had given up quite a reasonable salary at the time on the railways. So it was not an easy three years but I did it and started teaching which I thoroughly enjoyed. My main subject for teaching was Religious Studies.
I taught full time for 18 years. It got as far as 1986 when I had by then got involved with wherries and I couldn’t do both. So I then did another two years part time and then in 1988 I left although I maintained my links with the school at Cromer for another 20 years or so.
I do still come across a lot a of people that I used to teach and whenever somebody says ‘hello Sir’ or even sometimes ‘hello Mr Bower’, I immediately have to turn round and say ‘give me your name’ and I think almost certain then it was somebody I used to teach. It’s nice and lots of them have good memories of when they went on the Broads with me as well.
I was able to take pupils onto the Broads with me in the 60s/70s, when things were very different from now and education was a much wider field. It wasn’t just getting grade C’s in this that or the other that was the only thing that counted and because I took a less able group in their last two years at school we were able to do all sorts of things. Cromer High School was one of the first to send youngsters to How Hill, the newly established education centre, by a very forward looking education officer, Dr Lincoln Ralphs. From 1969, right through to 1983 every Christmas I took a group to How Hill for a week’s course and in later years took them there by wherry as well. And then of course How Hill shut in 1983 when the education people at the time decreed that it wasn’t viable. A new trust was formed, but we’ll come onto that later.
Working with wherries
I was interested in railways and one of the things I did in 1967 was to dismantle a signal box from Honing station and re-erect it in the garden here and we formed the Barton House Railway as well which is still running to this day.
So I was sort of into things old a bit but as far as wherries were concerned, apart from seeing from time to time the Albion, very possibly the Solace, it was very very rare to see any other wherries. Once in the early 60s from my bedroom window at the top of the house here, I looked down the garden and I saw this highly coloured wherry mast going past under sail. I rushed down the garden and saw Hathor in all her glory sailing past and ever regretted the fact that I didn’t take the camera down with me.
I began to think that in the same way that things on the railway were disappearing rapidly disappearing, so it was similar with the wherries. So in the early 70s, I scoured the Broads to see if there were any other wherries left, because there were several at that time still being used as houseboats and so on. I saw an advert in the EDP advertising for £500 the wherry Sundog for sale in 1974. I did actually go and see the person who was selling it. She was in a very poor state and he told me that she’d broken her back and she was leaking badly. But he was living on the wherry Olive and he said, ‘I’m thinking I might be selling her later in the year.’ Olive then was basically all complete with mast and sail, or looked as if it was complete. I’d actually gone down there to Tunstall Dyke near Acle by boat, spent the night on the boat, next morning went back to see him and did a deal and 10 days later, I came and collected Olive and brought it back to Barton House.
I had never sailed a wherry before and the first time I had ever set foot on a wherry was that night . She’d got an engine so we brought her home under power and then sort of learnt to sail her by trial and an awful lot of error. I could write a book on how not to sail a wherry and what can go wrong.
That December 1974, would’ve been the first occasion I would’ve taken kids up to How Hill by wherry, on Olive. They were very excited by it. Particularly one incident when we went out for a sail in the morning and the wind was quite calm. We sailed up to Barton Broad and back again. Then the wind got up a bit in the afternoon and the kids sort of said, ‘Oh can’t we go for a sail again?’ So we decided to go off in the other direction towards Ludham Bridge. And I was, as I said very green then, I misjudged it. We were roaring up with the wind behind us towards the bridge and I yelled at them to start getting the sail down and as they did it, the sail started to rip from top to bottom; it was an old canvas sail. Naturally, they stopped. I had to scream at them to carry on and the sail literally did rip in half and yeah, I threw them ashore, with a load of lines and we pulled up about 10 ft. short of the bridge, quite frightening. First of my many frightening episodes on wherries.
But it didn’t put them or me off. Nearly put me off when I found out the cost of a new sail and then a couple of years later the cost of a new mast. Olive is still at the bottom of the garden. This became the beginning of a second lifelong passion, the first being the railways.
Building the collection
The next step was realising that on a teacher’s salary I couldn’t afford to maintain Olive unless she generated a bit of income. So the idea was to do a bit of chartering work and we started off by doing weekends and then weekends grew into some weeks during the school holidays and so on. In the late 70s I was doing more and more weekends and then the real life changer was in the early 80s when I was approached by a certain Barney Matthews who owned the wherry yacht, Lady Edith as called then, the Norada. I had met him once before when I brought the Olive. He came along and told me I’d bought the wrong boat and I should’ve bought his. Barney was a wonderful person but a very strong character and I had to point out to him that having bought one wherry I certainly wasn’t in a position to buy another one.
Barney was a local man but he spent his life working overseas and when he finally retired in 1983, he decided not to sell Norada and he did her up. He then approached me about doing charter work and we teamed up in 1983. Got on like a house on fire most of the time except when we were having fearful arguments but as Barney would say ‘Ahh purely academic, purely academic.’ In 1984 rumour had it that Martham Boat Building and Development Company had the wherry Hathor for sale. Barney and I had a discussion which went something like ‘I hear Hathor’s for sale. Well, we better have it.’ We went over and saw Gordon Curtis who was running the yard and did a deal more or less straight away. And in December 1985, Hathor ended up at the bottom of the garden. So from one wherry, the Olive, to two wherries, the Lady Edith who we renamed Norada when she was 75 years old in the late 70s, and then we had Hathor as well.
The history of Hathor
Hathor is unique on the wherries on the Broads. If you haven’t been inside Hathor my explanation will be totally inadequate, you need to go and see her. She was built for the Colman family when two sisters Ethel and Helen Colman who decided in 1904, that they wanted a wherry built. They’d had a younger brother, Alan Colman, who suffered from tuberculosis and what they used to do in those days was to ship them off Egypt where they hoped the dry clean air of the south would prolong their life. So in 1897 the family embarked for Egypt and sadly Alan Colman’s health was not improving. His dying wish was to see something of the Nile. They embarked on one of the dahabeahs on the Nile, which happened to be called Hathor, Goddess of Love, Joy and everything else under the sun. But when Hathor was moored at Luxor in February 1897 sadly Alan Colman died at only 30 years old. The family were there and it had a profound effect on them. So when in 1904 the two sisters were thinking of having a wherry, they decided to do it in their brother’s memory and so they called it Hathor.
It was constructed by Halls of Reedham, one of the finest wherry builders on the Broads but they commissioned Edward Boardman who was their brother-in-law and a prominent Norwich architect, to design the interior with Egyptian hieroglyphics. He was also the architect of How Hill House. He sent one of his employees, Graham Cotman, who I believe was related to the artist Cotman, to the British Museum to sketch the subjects in the Egyptology section there which were turned into architectural drawings. The interior of Hathor is absolutely unique because of how she is decorated. She’s got sycamore panelling which is a light wood, inlaid with teak which is a much darker wood, and its full of symbols, lotus leaves in flower and bloom. It really is really something quite special.
She is still in good condition. It was her turn to be done up on a slipway this winter and Dean, a young man who is operations manager here and is a superb craftsman, has done a fantastic amount of work on her. The interior was specially done up four or five years ago and Steve Darke, another local boat builder, did a tremendous amount of work on it then. When people come aboard to have a look at her there’s a really sort of wow effect because it’s just different.
Creating the Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust
Barney and I formed Wherry Yacht Charter, a business very much in inverted commas because businesses usually make money and I would say we made the bread but we never made the butter to go on it. When we got Hathor as well, we worked very closely with the Broads Authority, who gave us a terrific amount of support both financial and in terms of activities. We did lots of sailings in conjunction with the Broads Authority. When discussing with Diana Shipp, who was in charge very much of the tourism side of things and the chief executive Aitken Clark, we formulated the idea of forming a trust because both Barney and I wanted to ensure that the wherries would be there for future generations to enjoy. When Aitken Clark retired, during the 90s, he said that in his retirement he would like to maintain his involvement with the wherries and so the Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust was set up in 2002, with the sole aim of taking the wherries and preserving them for future generations to enjoy.
So the ownership of the wherries was transferred to the charitable trust and then quite amazingly, from three wherries we went to four, with the wherry yacht White Moth, when the boat yard at Horning was sold up. Most of the boats went to Martham and of course Martham is the other side of Potter Heigham Bridge and so White Moth wouldn’t’ve been suitable for going there. One of our trustees, Andrew Scull very kindly bought her for the use of the Trust and with eventual aim that she would become part of the trust.
So we then had four wherries and the good thing then was that this was in a low period because Barney and I had basically run out of money. The trust hadn’t been formed then and so during the 2000s as each wherry came up for its survey, we just didn’t have the money to do it. In 2009 the last wherry to sail Hathor, was laid up from September 2009. So for a couple years we had no wherries in commission at all. The trust had been formed by then and we got a heritage lottery grant but obviously we had to rebuild our base before we could do any work. So when in about 2011 suddenly the idea of being able to have White Moth appeared and she was still in sailing condition, we could use her straight away, that was really good because we can then start to generate a bit of income. So then we had White Moth and then even more surprisingly by the same process, with Andrew Scull, we got the Ardea as well.
History of the Ardea
The Ardea was the last wherry to be built of any sort at all in 1927 and she was built for Howard Hollingsworth who owned the store Bourne and Hollingsworth. A very rich man who lived in Lowestoft and it’s said that he commissioned the Ardea to relieve the depression in the boat building industry. He had this huge wherry constructed: 65 ft. long, that’s much longer than any of ours, to be built of teak which is the most durable, most expensive wood you can imagine to build boats out of for his own private use. She was commissioned in 1927 and Mr Hollingsworth had a dinner for all those people who’d worked on her, all the men who’d worked on the boat yard and at the side of everybody’s plate was a golden sovereign which again would’ve been a considerable amount of money.
Mr Hollingsworth had her for about 10 years and then she had one or two other owners. She was still sailing in the early 1950s but then was used as a motorboat and a houseboat until Howard Dunkerley came along who was going to work in Paris and wanted somewhere for accommodation. He had noticed lots of boats moored on the Seine and thought, I’ll see if I can find one in Norfolk. He saw the Ardea, took her across to France in 1959 and used her as accommodation. She wasn’t under sail then at all, she still had an engine and so she lay near the Eiffel Tower.
The story is that the Ardea was bought by a manager of ladies of the night but it was not used for that purpose, it was used as somewhere for her ladies to go and rest or so we’re told but that was only literally for a year or so. Then she went completely downhill but she was spotted by a certain Philippe Rouff, a Parisian who had a lot of interest in the rivers and canals of France. He first saw her in about 1971 and then a few years later he saw her again in a totally derelict condition. She’d been impounded by the customs and was just deteriorating. Anyway he bought her and initially lived on her, commissioned her for charter work and for years during his ownership, she travelled all over France all over the waterways of Europe. Probably the most widely travelled wherry in existence.
Anyway, Mr Rouff had always got a plan of getting her back to sailing order but sadly, he hadn’t got the money to do it and in 2005, he put her up for sail when she was bought by Phillip Davies. Now Phillip Davies had previously bought the White Moth and also established the Norfolk Broads Yachting Company boatyard at Horning. He bought Ardea for his own use, brought her back to this country, spent an enormous sum of money on restoring her, restoring her to extremely high standards and enjoyed a few, very few years of use on her as a private boat. Sadly, he died way before his time in early 2010/2011 something like that. His widow used her for a year or two but she’d got young children and it was just too much of a handful. So she got in touch with Andrew Scull again and again he very generously bought the Ardea as well and so now we have five wherries at the bottom of the garden.
Skippering on the Wherries
I have skippered on these wherries since 1974. In the early days I had various people help me with sailing the wherries and when I did weekend trips the charter party were the crew. When we started to work with the Broads Authority, we established the whole basis of crewing. In the early days it was Broads Authority staff and then we got volunteers. The situation now is that under the Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust we formed a friends organisation and from the friends organisation we have a pool of crew members, so if people want to crew they join the friends and then we do training into crewing and we do training for people to become skippers as well and that’s basically where we get our crew from. Always looking for new recruits as well.
I’m winding down a little bit with regards to skippering. It was very important that when we put the programme together for the wherries that we had an educational programme and we decided that the best place we could do that was at How Hill because now in its second life, How Hill trust was formed to establish How Hill as a residential educational centre. So we had Hathor and some of the other wherries up at How Hill for a few days doing visits for youngsters and so on and I thought that probably the best use of Hathor could be to have her at How Hill and allow people to have a look round her. Last year and again this year, we’ve had Hathor moored at How Hill from the beginning of May to the end of September and throughout that period she is there for people to come and look round. At least twice a week the school parties would come and stay at How Hill, they come aboard they have a look round, have a little demonstration of the mast being raised and lowered which they really like. We do some day cruises as well at How Hill and yes, I am still involved in doing some skippering at that but I’m not now doing longer trips on the other boats.
The future of the wherries and the Broads
The future of the wherries and Broads is a very difficult question. If we could gaze into crystal balls and see the answer, we would act differently perhaps. From my own point of view, I think we have established that the three wherry yachts Olive, Norada and White Moth are the most suitable for doing charters, doing day cruises and weekend cruises. They’ve all got small electric engines, they’ve all got counter sterns where people can sit at the back out of the way of the running of the boat and they’re ideally suited to that. Hathor I think, I would like the see her becoming part of the Broadland scene at How Hill. I think How Hill is so special, it’s somewhere people want to see the Broads and to see Hathor that’s an added bonus.
The Ardea is a little bit difficult because she is restored to such a high standard we don’t really want the whole world trampling all over her and in many ways we would like to develop luxury cruises on board her, particularly day cruises. We did a couple last year with all meals provided and that seemed to go down very well. I think that by dividing up the usage of our wherries that way we can move into the future.
As for the Broads in general, I think the future is basically good: certainly the holiday industry has picked up which is very important for the area. We have to balance conservation with recreation. I think the Broads Authority needs to be a little more positive towards more of the historical aspect, particularly with regards to the wherries. I know they’ve got a difficult task but I think the overall view has got to be preserving the Broads as much as possible for future generations to enjoy and that really does involve the quietness of the Broads, the peace and the tranquillity. Somewhere that people can go, enjoy and relax.
Peter Bower (b. 1943) talking to WISEArchive on 28 th February 2019 at Wroxham.
Wherry Yacht Charter operates, maintains and restores four of the eight surviving wherries on the Norfolk Broads. Wherry Yachts Olive (1909), Norada (1912) and White Moth (1915) are joined by Pleasure Wherry Hathor (1905). All income from chartering and public sailings goes towards their maintenance.
Watch this video to see what an enjoyable experience it is to sail aboard one of these glorious old ladies....
Our offerings include private charters and public sailings. Chartering (minimum 1 day's hire) allows up to 12 day passengers, with overnight berths for 10. We supply bed linen. Holiday charters are offered on a fully skippered, self-catering basis, between Easter and October subject to availability. We can tailor charters for holiday, corporate and educational customers, and can also offer shore-based educational activities. Please contact us with your requirements and we will do our best to fulfil them!
On public sailings, individual spaces are bookable on scheduled itineraries ranging from a couple of hours to a whole day. Our experienced skippers are joined by knowledgable volunteer crew members to transport you along the river in Edwardian style, and tell you something of the operation and history of these boats as you go. Our one-way sailings include return land transport to complete your day. We offer complimentary hot and cold drinks and invite you to bring a picnic for longer sailings; where itineraries allow we will moor up for lunch.
Within certain events we also offer short sailings that do not require pre-booking. Some sailings in conjunction with third parties offer you the chance to visit other attractions such as Fairhaven Woodland & Water Gardens or St Benet's Abbey.
Our fleet's status:
Norada and White Moth are available for private charter and also operate a limited number of public sailings.
Olive is externally restored and in sailing order, but work is ongoing on her interior to allow day sailings and overnight charters. We anticipate she will be ready before the close of the 2013 season.
Hathor eturned in 2015 after extensive restoration, reuniting the original WYC fleet. A celebratory relaunch weekend at How Hill saw five wherries sail together on the Ant for the first time in perhaps a century. She is currently used for scheduled sailings and educational activities only.
Ardea is our newest arrival, and like White Moth is privately owned but with charter rights assigned to WYC. Her unusual history involves time in Paris as a houseboat. She arrived at our wherry base in 2015, is in sailing order, and we look forward to developing our corporate offering with her. She will not usually operate holiday charters or public sailings, but may do from time to time. A higher price for these sailings reflects her infrequent appearance and more luxurious accommodation.
Please see our website for full details of our boats and activities, or contact us to request a brochure.
We also welcome anyone who wishes to join us as a Friend. From £15 per year, membership supports the future of the wherries, and offers an exclusive quarterly newsletter, members' events, early access to public bookings, and opportunities to learn to crew or act as a visitor guide on these wonderful vessels. Contact us for details.
Wherry Yacht Charter Charitable Trust is a registered charity, number 1096073
Trustees are the people responsible for controlling the work, management and administration of the charity on behalf of its beneficiaries. Generally trustees are treasurer, chair, board member etc. The trustees are responsible for keeping this list up to date and can do this by updating their details as they happen through the online service
5 Trustee(s)
Name
Role
Date of appointment
Other trusteeships
Reporting status of other trusteeships
ANDREW SCULL
Chair
None on record
ANDREW SCULL
None on record
Judith Keogh
None on record
Dawn Atter
None on record
SIMON WILLIAM PAUL HOUSDEN
None on record
PAUL WALSHE
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Norfolk Wherry Trust
Home of the Wherry Albion
Welcome to The Norfolk Wherry Trust
Details of ALL Sailing experiences are here .
Welcome to the Wherry Albion, a 125yr old traditional Norfolk Wherry. Known as a “black sailed trader”, she is one of only two remaining commercial Wherries built specifically for the Broads. At their peak there were over 300 of these craft, but now Albion is the only one available for hire.
In the summer months during the Edwardian era, skippers scrubbed out the holds and took holiday makers for trips to make extra money. If you want to follow in Edwardian footsteps and explore the unique Broads wetlands beneath Albion’s vast black sail, then go to our Sail on Wherry Albion Page to find out all you need to know – otherwise we would love to see you at one of our Free Public Open Days in the future (which you will find listed under Events .)
BBC Countryfile Magazine named Albion as one of the Top 10 Boat Trips in the UK.
West Nautical aims to cut through the noise to provide clarity in a complex and fast-paced marketplace. Our personalised reports save you time and money while helping you make well-informed decisions. Let us know what you're looking for and we'll prepare a selection of the best superyachts for you, tailored to your needs.
At your request, West Nautical managers can advise you on which yachts are available for charter around the world. We can also provide information on price fluctuations and advice on the construction of new yachts at leading European shipyards.
ATLANTIC YACHT AND SHIP CAN SERVE YOU AT MANY LOCATIONS
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
The buying and selling of any vessel can be an intricate and complex endeavor. At Atlantic Yacht & Ship, we have the ability and experience to strategically and successfully guide you through this process. Our waterfront location in Harbour Towne Marina is conveniently located 5 minutes from Fort Lauderdale International Airport. With dockage for yachts up to 170’ and dry stack storage for over 400 boats.
Brad Nelson grew up in a small beach community in Southern California and early on developed a strong interest in the ocean and water related activities. Brad was on active duty in the Navy for ten years, and upon leaving the Navy got his US Merchant Marine Officers License. Brad joined Atlantic Yacht & Ship in the 1990’s and has been with the company continuously since that time.
Andrew Bergh grew up in New England and started his love for boats and the water at the age of eight sailing classic wooden sailboats. He graduated from Alfred University in New York with a Bachelor of Science in Business with minors in Physics and Foreign Business/Economics. Andrew pursued a business career in manufacturing, but spent every spare moment on the water developing his talents as a Sport Fisherman.
Andrew has participated in billfish tournaments from Nantucket Island to the Bahamas. After being involved with the marine industry for several decades on a part time basis, Andrew decided sixteen years ago to become involved with the yachting industry full time.
Since joining Atlantic Yacht and Ship, Andrew has focused on Sport Fishing Boats and he is committed to providing the highest level of client satisfaction. His philosophy has been to focus his time and energy on the client’s goals and offering his clients options and excellent service before, during and after the sale.
Chris Carroll is a partner with . Call Chris to find out about our latest and for anything you might be searching for. Chris was born and raised in Myrtle Beach, SC. At the age of ten, he started his own business when he convinced his dad to buy him a used riding lawnmower to cut lawns for profit. His entrepreneurial approach at a young age molded him into the success he is today. For years, Chris was the Roman rider at Dolly Partons Dixie Stampede Dinner Show. More recently, Chris has developed an equestrian development outside of Myrtle Beach, where he has built custom homes from 2,500 to 7,500 sq feet. Chris is a licensed yacht broker in the state of Florida and California, he obtained his SC Commercial and Residential Builders license, and is a licensed real estate broker in the state of South Carolina. Chris is working the Florida and California offices of Atlantic Yacht and Ship. Growing up in and around the coastal waters of South Carolina is what made Chris’ love of boating a perfect fit for this Industry. Chris is willing to go the extra mile to insure that you he fits each and every client with the perfect of their dreams!
Dennis has been a lifetime boater having been introduced to lake boating in infancy. His family placed a boat in Florida in 1958—followed by a move to Broward County in 1963. After completing two years of college; he completed his military service in Submarines. He joined his family’s boatyard business in early 1969; and there learning all aspects of yacht maintenance, fabrication and repair. He expanded the family business to include sales in 1981 by opening Rhodes Yacht Brokers, Inc. In 1987 Dennis became one of the founding fathers of the Florida Yacht Brokers Association. This association has brought a higher set of professional standards to the yacht brokerage community. Dennis remained on the Board of Directors until 1991. In 2000 Dennis came to HMY Yacht Sales in Dania Beach where he served until 2009. In 2009 Dennis joined Atlantic Yacht and Ship, Inc in Dania Beach, Florida. 2024 marks his 55th year dedicated to ethical service, before, during and after the sale! Dennis is a current holder of a 100-ton Masters Certificate. He looks forward to EARNING your business!
On the marketing and sales front, Doug has long experience bringing the yacht from the shipyard environment into the US market and facilitating the eventual sale of the yacht. Doug recognizes that the yacht builders must have a well organized after sale service and warranty agenda. He has personally managed this work for the builder to enhance the satisfaction of the yacht owner.
Ed Biggie is a Broker and Co-owner at Atlantic Yacht and Ship. Ed Biggie was born in Maryland, and he grew up in South Florida. Biggie owned and operated a yacht repair and refurbishing company for several years before beginning a career in the yacht brokerage business in 1990. With over 20 years of experience in the yachting industry, Ed Biggie brings to the table a wide variety of skills and expertise in many areas of his trade. At the age of 18 Biggie was introduced to yachts when he was given the charge of washing a large powerboat, and he was immediately smitten by them. Since that point in his life, Biggie has captained yachts from Maine to Mexico, and has a great deal of experience with the mechanical and technical aspects of a vast array of vessels, particularly sportfishermen. When you are in search of a yacht broker, it is essential for them to have experience with most aspects of the yachting industry and specific crafts. Biggie believes that his clients deserve more attention than is typically offered in the marine industry. For this reason Biggie keeps in close contact with all his customers, seeing them through any upgrades and repairs their yachts may require. He also says he is willing to assist with any issue, boat-related or not.
Joe Marino is a Broker and Co-Owner of Atlantic Yacht and Ship. With over 35 years of experience in the yachting industry, Joe is an asset to the company with an extensive background and skill set. From coastal Vietnam to the Mediterranean, Asia, and Caribbean, Joe Marino’s career has been worldwide. With transatlantic and transpacific crossings, his experience at sea counts. A U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran, Joe has virtually worked in all facets of the marine industry. Joe has a wide variety of experiences, including commercial vessels, charter yacht captain, and overseeing new construction in Australia, China, Holland, Italy, and Taiwan. Joe’s broad knowledge of vessels and ancillary systems gives him the technical background that is the foundation of his career and an upper hand to his competition. Specializing in European vessels, Joe has exceptional knowledge in foreign purchases and deliveries. Over the years, Joe has established repeat and referral business due to his superior customer service standards. Joe has sold yachts to clients from over 40 countries around the world. Joe specializes in large motor yachts and European manufacturers. As the senior partner of Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Joe continues to steer his clients in the right direction and firmly believes in building lifelong friendships along the way. Joe celebrates 35 years with the firm and continues to enjoy his passion for yachting and sharing his knowledge!
Born and raised in rural South Carolina on a farm, I realized at an early age I was not cut out to be a farmer. Going to work at a Chevrolet dealership at age 16 and worked hard to achieve the honor of becoming the youngest Toyota dealer in the country at age 21. After 20 years in the car business I sold when dealerships were going public and the price was right. I spent the next 20 years in high end real estate producing over 175 million in sales in the Charleston area. Now I am pursuing my passion for boats and the yachting business. Owning boats all my life and having a second home in the Bahamas for the past 12 years has given me an extensive amount of experience that I can share with you. Divorced father of two great grown kids allows me plenty of time to devote to my yachting clients.
Growing up in upstate New York Randy learned early on that you have to make the most of a very short boating season. Early adventures started by camping and fishing the Finger Lakes, advanced to sailing the Great Lakes and then on to learning to navigate the Lock System of the Erie Canal and the St. Lawrence Seaway. A professional career in sales brought Randy South to the Mid-Atlantic States enjoying the coastal water of Virginia and the Carolina Coast. With the US Navy as a very large client a career high was participating in the sea trials and shake down cruises of two different nuclear Aircraft Carriers launched from the yards in Newport News, VA. Relocating to the Yachting Capital of the World Randy has enjoyed serving both domestic and International clients. In addition to Brokerage Sales, Randy has represented Ocean Yachts, Neptunus, Riviera, Contender and others. In recent years he has delivered many new Sunseeker builds as well developing new and repeat clients along the way. His years at Atlantic Yacht and Ship continue to be rewarding and like working with family.
Stephen holds to the mantra that service before and after the sale or purchase is the key to building lasting relationship with clients. So in addition to a strong support staff at AYS, Stephen is also partnered with a solid network of experienced finance agents, surveyors, mechanics, yacht management companies, shipping agents and documentation companies to fill any ancillary need that might arise. Stephen’s cell phone is always on so let him help you spend more time on the ocean and never miss the most important meeting of the day.
After obtaining his BS in Accountancy at Bentley College and a short stint in the corporate world, Rolf moved to Fort Lauderdale and joined the yachting industry as the mate on a 103′ Burger motor yacht. He obtained his US Coast Gaurd 150 ton license and has spent the last 15 years commanding numerous vessels up to 82′ through out the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and New England. His career in the smaller yacht market has enabled Rolf to have complete exposure to every aspect of the boat, from mechanical systems to complete yacht management. His work ethic simply stated, “I want to exceed your wants, needs, and expectations”, is a reflection of the energy Rolf has to succeed in whatever he sets forth on. He looks forward to using his nautical skills and industry experiences to find his clients their next yacht or sell their current one.
Gary hails from Oklahoma but was brought up in a military family where his fathers numerous travels took his family around the world from Germany, California and England. Gary graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelors degree in Management Information Systems. After graduating he moved to Fort Lauderdale and this is where he proudly calls home now. Shortly after arriving he started his career in yachting as a deckmate where he worked his way up the ladder and obtained his first captains license. He currently hold a 1600 USCG Masters and loves every minute he spends on the ocean as long as things aren't breaking. His vast boating experience has taken him from Canada to South America with stops thought out the Caribbean, gulf of Mexico, Bahamas and Central America. As well as working on pleasure yachts, Capt. Gary has spent several years operating commercial vessels. He spend several years in the oilfield running crew boats as large as 182′ and operated a landing craft involved in mining operations in Haiti.
Brodie was born and raised in Myrtle Beach, SC. He grew up on the ocean offshore fishing and always on boats. Naturally, he took his passion for the ocean and made it his career. He attended Clemson University and graduated with a Bachelor of science in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology. Following college, he began his professional career in the maritime industry as a Captain aboard multiple vessels between 40’-130’. Brodie traveled and navigated the waters of the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, New England and Great Lakes. He began running a busy 97’ charter yacht at the age of 27 and has continually upgraded his captain’s license. Most recently earning his 1600 ton oceans endorsed masters license in 2017. Currently, Brodie captains a 130’ motor yacht with a 66’ sport fish sister-ship. With his lifetime of maritime knowledge, coupled with 10 years of professional experience in yachting and sportfishing. He took his knowledge of boats and became a yacht broker in 2018. Since then he has gone above and beyond for his clients in helping them find the yacht of their dreams.
Captain Andre joins ATLANTIC YACHT AND SHIP with an extensive knowledge of Brokerage and Chartering of both Power and Sailing vessels. Andre has a broad knowledge of onboard Ships Systems, Marinas, Refits and management of Yacht Crews and Marine related Vendors. Andre holds a 200 Ton USCG Domestic Captain’s License along with a 500 Ton International Captain’s License. He has piloted vessels of every kind up to 180′. His vast experience is enhanced by his management of a fleet of charter yachts, and his years as a Captain for both private and corporate owned vessels.
Scott Kelley is a yacht broker with Atlantic Yacht & Ship and owner of One Source Marine/Management.
Scott is from the midwestern state of Ohio and was raised in South Florida. He grew up in a small beach town where he developed his passion for sailing, fishing and scuba diving. Following his love for the water, one of Scott’s first jobs was in sales for Jefferson Yachts. After gaining some experience with sales, Scott had a strong desire to learn every aspect of a boat from build to systems to performance. This lead Scott to become a junior crew member on a large motor yacht. He worked his way through the ranks and became a Master Captain with a extensive background in engineering. With this knowledge, Scott started One Source Marine/Management. A full service yacht management company offering services ranging from sales, maintenance and refits. Scott is able to offer a full service boutique style approach to yacht ownership. He believes it is vital to have a experienced and honest representative when purchasing a vessel. Scott prides himself on looking after his clients interest after the point of sale. This formula has proven to provide his clients with a great yacht ownership experience.
Combining years of excellent customer service with a hands on approach to detail, she was invited to work for Horizon Yachts USA. Haley was responsible for managing their inventory yachts (75-120ft), she worked closely with customers to assure a smooth selling or purchase experience. After joining the sales team, Haley traveled to the Horizon factory in Kaohsiung to learn about the entire yacht building process and how to best assist her clients during the development of their super yacht.
South Florida has always been home to Ray. His passion for boating goes back to a 10ft jon boat in 3rd grade fishing the local urban canals where he grew up in Plantation, FL. Ray attended the University of Florida where he obtained his Associates degree in education but soon realized his calling was in the marine industry. After college, getting back on the water was the primary objective and returned to school for his masters captains license. 20 years have passed and Ray’s overwhelming devotion and knowledge for boating and sport fishing is very apparent. Now a family man, Ray takes pride in sharing his passion and love of the water with his children and clients alike!
Born and raised in South Florida, Brett has spent the majority of his life on or near the water. His family spent many vacations boating, fishing and diving so he developed a love for the water very early on. Brett graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Management from Florida Atlantic University, taking night classes while working on a Charter Sportfishing boat during the day. His love of fishing and boating has taken him to many countries including Mexico, Costa Rica, the Bahamas and all over the United States. 15 years as a Captain has provided Brett with the experience and knowledge of many different aspects of boating.
Tim is a life long yacht builder, sailboat builder, and custom yacht project manager. He started his career in the mid 1970’s at famed KIWI Boats of Florida, working with many of the top designers of the day; including Evan K. Marshall, Ron Holland, Doug Peterson, and German Frers. Over the years, Kings has managed large projects at Delta Marine, Christensen Shipyard, Trinity Yachts, Windship Yachts, and Newcastle Marine. He also has managed yacht projects overseas in Mainland China and Taiwan. Tim will be involved in every aspect of your build as the lead project manager. His direct experience building H.A.R.D. Yachts will lead to safer voyages for you, your family and friends. Tim is married with two adult children and two grand children.
The buying and selling of any vessel can be an intricate and complex endeavor. At Atlantic Yacht & Ship, we have the ability and experience to strategically and successfully guide you through this process. Our waterfront location in Harbour Towne Marina is conveniently located 5 minutes from Fort Lauderdale International Airport. With dockage for yachts up to 170’ and dry stack storage for over 400 boats.
The buying and selling of any vessel can be an intricate and complex endeavor. At Atlantic Yacht & Ship, we have the ability and experience to strategically and successfully guide you through this process. Our waterfront location in Harbour Towne Marina is conveniently located 5 minutes from Fort Lauderdale International Airport. With dockage for yachts up to 170’ and dry stack storage for over 400 boats.
At , Barrett is in charge of developing, designing, coordinating and delivering fully functioning products that incorporate sound, full-motion video, text and graphics into one application that is interactive for the end user. This may include web portals for brokers, online sales tools and websites. As a developer and designer he tracks all changes with the multimedia projects and is responsible for all changes, upgrades and post-delivery problems and solutions. Daily duties entail designing, creating and testing complete and fully working marketing tools for the team at .
Will is one of our newest faces here at Atlantic Yacht & Ship. He is a good ol’ Florida boy, born and raised in Pensacola. His love for charter fishing started as a teenager and he now has over 15 years in the yachting industry. His career as a Captain has brought him all over the East Coast, from the Hamptons, down to Mexico, Cuba & the Bahamas, finally settling down in Fort Lauderdale with his amazing wife. Will currently runs McKenzie Yacht Management, managing several boats in South Florida for his clients, as well as overseeing refits & vessel deliveries. Expanding his career into the yacht brokerage side of the industry seemed like a great next step. Will’s love and knowledge of the ocean & Sportfishing is contagious. His goal and passion is to give his clients a taste of what the ocean & boat ownership has to offer!
Originally from Myrtle Beach, Leah Carroll emits that South Carolina charm we all love. Anyone who knows Leah knows that there is nothing this lady cannot accomplish once she sets her mind to it. Leah’s degree from Coast Carolina University was in communications and graphic design. After college, Leah became a mortgage lender at South Atlantic Bank where she successfully closed over $100 million in loans during her 7-year tenure.
Always looking for new challenges and growth, Leah moved on to obtain her real estate license and sold many homes in and around Myrtle Beach. Simultaneously, Leah immersed herself in volunteer work at several Myrtle Beach based charities including Grand Strand Miracle League, Toys-4-Tots and New Directions Homeless Shelter. More recently, she has been involved in raising funds and awareness with Songwriters in Paradise, a tremendous relief effort for Hurricane Dorian survivors as well as the Parents as Teachers Toy Drive.
After moving to Florida to start her life with her husband, Chris Carroll, Leah was able to carve an impressive niche in the South Florida Real Estate Market. The couple has traveled extensively in the Bahamas by yacht, so it was only natural to compliment her real estate business with yacht sales.
Leah is a high energy person and puts great effort and her whole heart into everything that she does, whether in her professional life, volunteer work, or home life. She is a tremendous asset to Atlantic Yacht and Ship and we are thrilled to have her as part of our team.
Levi was born and raised in Coeur d’Alene Idaho. I know what your think Idaho, but his first job was actually a deckhand on lake cruise boats. At age 26 he joined the Coast Guard and served for four years. The Coast Guard gave him a lot of real world experience not only with operating vessels but pressure situation‘s. After living in Dallas Texas for two years he move back to Fort Lauderdale to pursue his passion on the water. Levi currently holds a 200 ton Masters license. Currently he is a full-time captain in Fort Lauderdale where he has been running a VanDutch 55 for the last three years.
Erika Cayo was born in Ica, Peru raised in New Jersey and recently relocated to the sunshine state Florida. Has worked in detail-oriented administrative work with excellent interpersonal, planning, and customer service skills for 3 plus years. Friendly and efficient delivering customer service, takes on multiple tasks with excellent time management abilities and resourceful approach.
Captain Jim started in the Marine industry in 1990 with an impeccable work ethic.
I have 30 + years of experience in the yachting/ boating world which has taken me from the cockpit to the helm which then lead me to the top of the marine industry leaders.
My aluminous experience ranging from a licensed private yacht captain to service technician., service manager, to mention just a few of my assets,
I am able to provide a tremendous edge to my clients when purchasing or selling the yacht or boat of their dreams throughout the entire purchase or selling process.
Brent Holleman's love for the sea started at an early age when he became a young sailor racing sailboats at the local yacht club in Miami, Florida. He continued to learn about boating from his father, a restauranteur and captain, grandfather, who was an avid fisherman, and grandmother, who was a yacht broker.
In his younger years, Brent and his family set out to sail around the world on a 45’ ketch, where he began mastering the fundamentals of seamanship and navigation and learned the demands of the sea, cruising, outfitting and maintaining yachts. After a year of great experiences and lessons exploring the Bahamas, Virgin Islands, Leeward and Windward Islands of the Caribbean, he came home to attend college and help run the family business, where he became a noted and very successful gourmet chef and restaurateur whose training took him all over North America and Europe.
He kept his skills honed over the coming years by owning and bareboat chartering 40-60’ power and sailing vessels. In 2001 Brent put his interest in the sea back in first place when he retired from the restaurant business and reestablished himself as a yacht broker and yacht captain. He received his 200-ton MCA/RYA Yachtmaster license, and USCG 500-ton Master Merchant Marine Officer license, and most recently captain on a fleet of incredible yachts such as: Feadship, 9X Pershing, Lazzara and Ocean Alexander, and is also a certified diver.
He has logged thousands of nautical miles over the East Coast of the United States, Bahamas, Caribbean, Atlantic and Pacific oceans. In the summer, he loves sailing and working on his Pearson sloop in the Long Island Sound with his family and friends.
Today Brent has partnered with Atlantic Yacht and Ship, where he focuses on helping people buy, sell, charter and run their boats to the highest standards, while cruising the oceans making great friends in quaint ports and great anchorages.
“As part of my effort to connect people to the sea, I strive to make sure everyone’s experience is an enjoyable and stress-free seamless process, while guiding and assisting them to find the best possible yacht,” Brent says. “I know the questions to ask customers, and with my knowledge acquired as a captain and high end service provider, I can really assist and guide them in finding the best yacht for their specific desires and needs that will bring them a lifetime of pleasure and enjoyment on the water.”
Dayami Is originally from the Bronx, New York, graduated from Pace University with a Business Management Degree. After college, Dayami immediately began her career in direct sales with Synergy Energy and has worked with thousands of clients ensuring they obtained the best energy service for their homes while closing over five hundred thousand dollars in sales.
Dayami went on to work on her career the last four years on yachts as a Chief Stewardess and sole stewardess where she amassed a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the yachting industry. Dayami has built her strong foundation as a reliable, trustworthy, high energy individual who consistently continues to primarily put her clients’ and guests’ needs first.
Dayami also loves to volunteer her time when and where needed , is extremely dedicated to providing her clients with the highest level of service. Her years of experience in the industry, combined with her passion for customer service and hospitality makes Dayami a invaluable asset to any team.
Ron, born in Hawaii is all about salt water. He’s skippered everything in the Caribbean from dive boats to super yachts power and sail and Captained sport fish charters chasing Marlin. A South Florida resident, Long Island Sound had been home waters for decades sailing from Maine to Miami and beyond. Following many great years as a producer in show business Ron’s been a success story in the industry having sold yachts for some of the biggest manufactures and most prestigious brands. “Am I a salesman or is it sailsman?” Either way he never met a boat or boater he didn’t love. If anyone can make a match between a family and the right boat, It’s Ron. A happy husband and dad to two amazing young men, Ron is an avid Golfer and Fishaholic. “My perfect day off is surf and turf. Fishing in the morning and golf in the afternoon.” Knowing time is the most valuable commodity, Ron is wherever you need him to be. “I can be anywhere on the East Coast within hours”.
Stop by and introduce yourself or give Ron a call to visit you and discuss your plans.
**Power Catamaran Specialist, Dealer Rep for ILIAD Catamarans US & Bahamas**
David caught the boating bug early on by learning to sail at age 10.
“Everyone is always having a good time when on the water…(Unless your boat is sinking)"
Most of David’s business career has been in the real estate realm and is credited with negotiating and selling over 1,200 homes. David is also a licensed real estate broker in Florida.
With an extensive online digital marketing background David aims to bring that knowledge to help give his clients a competitive advantage when selling their yacht.
David is also a Divemaster and a private pilot that enjoys helping other pilots make the international jump over to the Bahamas.
Although David has a passion for all types of yachts… he has a specialized knowledge with PowerCats.
If you’re looking for a broker to go well beyond listing your boat in the MLS then give David a call.
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Testimonial
"We had the opportunity and pleasure to visit the new Illiad 53F with David Huffman. David was patient, taking the time to show us around the entire boat and providing us with a wealth of relevant information regarding the purchasing process. We feel confident in our dealings with David in a near future." -Christian Milot
A 3rd generation South Floridian, Jason comes from a family of fisherman and boaters. Spending time on the water was always his passion. As a young boy he spent his time fishing on the weekends and after school. He had his first boat before he was old enough to drive a car. Jason holds a 200 ton captains license and manages a well established Fort Lauderdale yacht charter business.
Johnny hales from the frigid north country of Syracuse, NY. He graduated from Northwood School in Lake Placid, NY & Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire. He then did a two-year stint hopping between the European Alps as ski instructor and the Caribbean Islands as a water sports instructor with Club Med, which helped cultivate his language skills, as well as his ability to adapt to varying cultural environments.
He has always gravitated to the mountains and water, having a great knack for boating. His experience started at a young age on Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, cruising the waters from the inland lakes of the North, up and down the Eastern Seaboard, Mediterranean and the Caribbean seas. Johnny has seen more than most and brings to the table a first-hand, well-rounded experience of education, seamanship and people skills - essential in putting buyers and sellers together, in a fair and competent way. He's often been quoted "God gave us two ears and one mouth," which means we should do twice the listening and half the talking on behalf of our clientele.
Johnny shared his yacht brokerage with his brother Pete, at Woods & Oviatt when they opened their doors back in 1973. He then branched off and started J. Woods Marine Group in 1989. Now with50 plus years in the industry, he re-joined Pete, and his two sons Ryan & Matt, at Woods & Associates Yacht Brokerage 2016. After 6 years, they started pulling back some, now with offices in their homes. Johnny wanted an office outside the home, so reopened J. Woods Marine Group and is now aligned with, Atlantic Yacht & Ship office in Dania, FL - known to be a fun and entertaining atmosphere to do business, whether buying or selling.
Johnny has three great kids plusthree granddaughters: daughter Jessica, along with sons, Will & Sean ...what a handful! His other interests that keep him busy are traveling with wife Laurie. Johnny is an accomplished pilot & loves to fly, escape to their home in Colorado to ski, and watch the professional sports teams of South Florida.
Please give Johnny a call for your next boat deal. You are assured to be treated professionally and honestly. Whether buying or selling, the client's interests are always first and foremost!
Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Prior to joining Atlantic Yacht and Ship, Inc. Co-founded Fatherson Realty, Inc. since February 1994. Prior to entering real estate, I served in the United States Army Artillery, after receiving my commission from Valley Forge Military Academy & J.C. in Wayne, PA, and B.A. from Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
With over 27 years in commercial development, sales and management and over 25 years of boat ownership and experience I have set out to embark in a lifetime dream to be around my passion. I am committed to provide a unique experience in the purchase or sale of your vessel.
Sophia Kohr, originally from Germany, now supports her team in sunny Florida with her expertise in consulting and administrative operations. Skilled in communication, benefits administration, and business development, she efficiently delivers friendly customer service while adeptly multitasking and managing time effectively.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Gregg spent his early years crewing on Sport Fishing vessels and Yachts around the South Florida and Bahamas area. This allowed him to accumulate a vast amount of underway sea time and experience offshore.
After Gregg received his A.S Degree in Marine Propulsion Technology, he quickly obtained his U.S. Coast Guard 100-Ton Master License. Soon after that he worked as a diesel mechanic then an Outboard mechanic for several years.
Always open for new challenges he moved his sights on Vessel manufacturing. This included two years at Thunderbird Formula Boats as Quality Assurance Manager. After that several years at Blackfin Yachts also in QC department.
After several Marine trade publications featured Gregg's early accomplishments, he was scouted by a government contracting corporation. He was placed as a sight manager on the US Customs vessel maintenance and deployment division. Eventually promoted to Contract manager and Quality Assurance Leason manager.
Moving his sights on new challenges he began working with insurance companies preforming marine damage appraisals and cause of loss reports. Gregg continued this path for many years representing several notable companies as a self-employed sub-contractor.
For the last 23 years Gregg has been a Licensed Yacht & Ship Broker and member of Florida Yacht Brokers Association. Now with Atlantic Yacht & Ship Gregg feels very much at home. He has experience with countless sales of Motor Yachts, Trawlers, Sport Fishing vessels, and Sail. Gregg has been able to successfully apply his vast marine industry knowledge to assist his clients. He also oversees vessel retrofits and deliveries. Gregg’s repeat clientele and frequent referrals is a testament to his dedication to finding your next dream vessel. Gregg and his wife reside in Key West, Fort Lauderdale, and North Carolina and is always willing to travel to any location worldwide to apply his trade & expertise.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Mike Levell was born on the shores of Lake St. Clair in southeast Michigan. He now splits his time between Michigan and south Florida. Back in 1983, he decided to buy a 52′ wooden motor yacht to restore and cruise the Great Lakes. The restoration happened and he was hooked on boating. Shortly thereafter, he was offered a mate position on a busy corporate yacht cruising between south Florida and the Great Lakes. This naturally led him to get his master’s license. He has since maintained and captained many motor yachts all over the Great Lakes, the East Coast, and Florida (including about 25 trips between south Florida and the Great Lakes). In 1991, a happy repeat client of AYS introduced Mike to the company and he has been with us ever since. Mike prides himself on having some of the cleanest yachts available among his listings. He prefers to preview the yachts that he shows to his buyers to make sure that they are as good as the photos and spec sheets portray. He is not afraid to travel for his clients. The majority of his clients come back to him every time they are ready for a different boat.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
Atlantic Yacht & Ship, Inc. is one of America’s oldest and most respected suppliers of Power and Custom Motor Yachts. We specialize in the brokerage of quality Luxury Motor Yachts, Sport Fisherman, Express Cruisers, and Trawlers. Incorporated in 1959, Atlantic Yacht & Ship is committed to providing unparalleled product knowledge and meticulous attention to all your boating needs. We are pleased to offer over 55 years of vast experience, referral clients and testimonials that speak for our dedication and level of customer commitment.
