Step behind Miami’s glossy waters and meet the engine room that keeps it moving. From the dock at the Miami International Boat Show, we sit with Chuck Cashman, SVP of Global Yacht Sales at MarineMax, to map how a “boat dealer” grew into a full-stack marine partner: retail, deep service, marina ownership through IGY, finance, technology, charter, and superyacht management. If you’ve ever wondered how people stay on the water through shifting markets and life stages, this is the playbook.

Chuck breaks down why service is the quiet giant—two techs for every salesperson—and how storing boats, securing slips, and running a global marina network solves real bottlenecks. We dig into the non-linear customer journey, where families jump in at different sizes, pause, charter in Europe or the Caribbean, then return to ownership with confidence. He shares how MarineMax leaned into superyachts by listening first, partnering with experts, and only standardizing where it truly helps owners.

Policy meets passion as we confront tariffs, taxes, and perception. What happens when an $8 million yacht effectively becomes $10 million? Why did charter fleets shift from the Bahamas to the Caribbean after new fees? And how did Florida’s sales tax cap actually raise revenue while keeping boats local? We also spotlight the workforce powering those “big white boats”—3,500 jobs with wages above state averages—and why AI won’t replace marine mechanics, electricians, fiberglass techs, painters, or the 5 a.m. crews washing and prepping yachts each day. Apprenticeships, trade schools, and clear career ladders aren’t just talking points; they’re how the industry grows.

As acquisition markets cool, Chuck explains why the smartest move is inward: tighten operations, scale training, sharpen tech, and elevate marina experiences. Competition? Bring it—so long as customers are cared for and stay in boating. With Fort Lauderdale’s unmatched service density exporting expertise worldwide, this conversation shows how policy, people, and practical innovation keep the lifestyle real. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves the water, and leave a review to tell us what part surprised you most.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

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