Career Yacht Broker Reg Bates Joins BVI Yacht Sales, Strengthening St. Maarten Presence
Career Yacht Broker Reg Bates Joins BVI Yacht Sales, Strengthening St. Maarten Presence
BVI Yacht Sales is thrilled to welcome Reg Bates, a seasoned yacht broker with over 40 years of experience, to our growing team. Reg, an industry veteran with deep roots in the Caribbean and Canadian yachting communities, is based in St. Maarten, expanding our brokerage’s reach and expertise in the region.
For more than two decades, Reg has played a pivotal role in the Caribbean yacht market, helping clients transition into bluewater cruising and navigating the complexities of yacht ownership in the islands. His extensive knowledge of vessel registration, mooring, seasonal storage, and maintenance makes him an invaluable resource for those buying or selling in the region.
“Reg’s reputation precedes him,” says Brian Duff, Managing Director of BVI Yacht Sales. “His deep industry experience and hands-on approach will be an asset to both our clients and our team. Reg’s addition strengthens our ability to compete with the largest brokerages worldwide while maintaining the personalized service we’re known for.”
Reg’s career in yacht sales has been defined by his commitment to helping clients turn their sailing dreams into reality. He has spent years guiding buyers and sellers, not only through the sales process but also in ensuring their yachting experience is seamless and enjoyable.
A Lifetime of Passion for Yachting
Reg’s journey into the yachting industry began with a life-changing sail in 1977 when a friend invited him to explore the Bahamas aboard a Sparkman & Stephens 48’ Yawl. That transformative experience led him to purchase his own sailboat and enroll in a Yachting Studies Program at Humber College in Toronto, covering yacht design, sailmaking, FRP engineering, and diesel mechanics. His early career involved yacht refits and deliveries, culminating in an offshore passage from Toronto to the USVI in 1980, which sparked a lifelong passion for Caribbean sailing.
“Sailing is about more than just boats—it’s about adventure, transformation, and self-discovery,” says Reg. “Helping clients navigate this journey, whether buying their first yacht or upgrading to a serious cruising vessel, is what drives me.”
Reg has operated a yacht brokerage in St. Maarten for 23 years, developing an extensive network of local marine service providers and gaining insider knowledge that benefits his clients. His background as a licensed appraiser and former stockbroker has also given him a sharp eye for yacht valuation, ensuring clients receive expert guidance on pricing and investment decisions.
A Personalized, Hands-On Approach
Reg’s philosophy as a yacht broker is rooted in trust, experience, and a commitment to his clients. He understands that buying a yacht in the Caribbean is a leap of faith, and he works tirelessly to minimize uncertainties for his buyers and sellers.
He is particularly effective in post-survey consultations, helping clients interpret results and make informed decisions. His experience also makes him a valuable asset for those transitioning from Great Lakes or coastal sailing to Caribbean cruising, ensuring they understand the nuances of tropical boat ownership.
“There’s a fine line between due caution and needless worry,” Reg explains. “I help my clients find that balance, so they can move forward with confidence.”
A New Era with BVI Yacht Sales
Reg’s Weather Eye Yachts brokerage has long been a trusted name in St. Maarten, but by joining BVI Yacht Sales, he gains access to a wider marketing network and expanded resources. This collaboration reinforces BVIYS’s position as a leading Caribbean brokerage, offering buyers and sellers the expertise of highly experienced, locally based brokers.
As part of BVI Yacht Sales, Reg will continue to offer the personal, hands-on service that clients appreciate, but with the added advantage of BVIYS’s global reach and multi-platform marketing approach.
Expanding BVI Yacht Sales’ Caribbean Reach
BVI Yacht Sales continues to grow its footprint throughout the Caribbean, actively seeking experienced brokers in key island locations to provide clients with localized expertise and on-the-ground support.<
“By bringing on professionals like Reg, we strengthen our brokerage’s ability to serve clients across the Caribbean,” says Duff. “We’re committed to building a team of seasoned brokers who know their markets inside and out.”
Reg operates from Porto Cupecoy Marina, one of St. Maarten’s premier marinas. Clients looking to buy or sell a yacht in the Caribbean can now benefit from Reg’s expertise and BVIYS’s international brokerage network.
About BVI Yacht Sales
BVI Yacht Sales specializes in the sale of pre-owned catamarans, sailing and motor yachts throughout the Caribbean. With experienced brokers positioned in key locations, we provide comprehensive support to buyers and sellers, ensuring a smooth and successful yacht sales transaction.
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