Broker Spotlight: Ocean Petersen – BVI Yacht Sales
Broker Spotlight: Ocean Petersen (US Virgin Islands )
email: [email protected]
What inspired your passion for sailing and boating, and how did it shape your career path?
I was born into a life at sea. My family set off on a dream to sail around the world on a small wooden sailboat, a journey that lasted 25 years instead of the planned three. I was born in Tahiti and spent the first 18 years of my life circumnavigating the globe twice. This unique upbringing instilled in me a deep love and respect for the ocean, shaping my career path in the maritime industry and ultimately leading me to become a yacht broker.
Can you share a memorable experience or adventure you’ve had while on the water?
One unforgettable experience was during a crossing from Morocco to Brazil. We got becalmed in the doldrums, and on the third day, we encountered a pod of humpback whales. For five days, they surrounded us, stretching for hundreds of miles in every direction. It was an awe-inspiring sight, seeing these magnificent creatures and the diverse marine life that follows them.
What do you enjoy most about helping clients buy or sell their yachts, and what makes you unique in your approach?
My profound connection to the sea has given me a deep understanding of the joy sailing can bring. What I enjoy most about helping clients is seeing their dreams become reality. My unique approach involves getting to know my clients personally and understanding what they seek in a vessel. This personalized approach has consistently worked well for my clients, ensuring they find the perfect boat to meet their needs.
How do you stay connected to the local boating community, and what insider knowledge do you bring to your clients?
I stay connected through my active participation in the local sailing scene. I volunteer at the yacht club, take my family on weekend sailing trips, race in various Caribbean regattas, and teach my son celestial navigation. This involvement keeps me in touch with the community and allows me to share valuable insider knowledge with my clients.
What hobbies or interests do you pursue when you’re not working, and how do they complement your professional life?
When I’m not helping clients, I enjoy racing, diving, spearfishing, and surfing. These activities allow me to stay connected to my water roots, helping me relax and stay focused. My passion for the ocean and its activities enhances my ability to assist clients in finding the perfect vessel.
What is your age and educational background?
I am 39 years old. Growing up on a sailboat, I attended various military schools and completed grade school at 17. My family has a medical background, and I initially pursued pre-med classes in Grenada. However, I realized it wasn’t for me and obtained my 100-ton captain’s license at 18. I skippered yachts around the Mediterranean and Caribbean and eventually settled in the US Virgin Islands, where I started and ran my own day sail charter business.
What is your relationship status and do you have children?
I am married with one amazing child.
What were your previous jobs before joining BVI Yacht Sales, and how do they contribute to your current role?
Before joining BVI Yacht Sales, I owned and managed a successful day sail charter business. I also skippered various yachts worldwide, managed a Farr 65’, coordinated numerous Caribbean races, captained a 110-foot motor yacht, and completed countless transatlantic deliveries. These experiences have provided me with extensive knowledge and skills, contributing significantly to my current role as a yacht broker.
What is your favorite boat and why?
My favorite boat is a Swan. These sailboats are incredibly fast and seaworthy, with a reputation for winning races.
What is your favorite place in the Caribbean, and why?
My favorite places in the Caribbean are Saint Barts and the British Virgin Islands. The British Virgin Islands are among the most beautiful islands in the world, and even after sailing around the world twice, they still take my breath away. Saint Barts holds a special place in my heart as it’s where my journey began and where my family met.
Where are the most likely places a client will find you when you’re not working?
You’ll find me involved in various ocean activities. Whether racing at the local yacht club, diving on a shipwreck in Tortola, or surfing on the outer reefs of Anegada, I am always connected to the sea.
Ocean can be reached by emailing [email protected] or calling 941-900-4510 and navigating to his extension. Be sure to leave a voicemail if he cant answer when you call!
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