DOCK TALK- Karma Yacht Sales Blog:

All that Glitters Isn't Gold!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 18 Sep 2017 19:12:00 +0000

It is that time of year again when the marine listings swell in anticipation of the Winter Selling season. Almost like the swallows returning to Capistrano, boats in the Northern half of the United States are en route to their Winter berths. Coinciding with this return to their Winter Storage, many owners make the decision to put the boats on the market after a year of boating is complete, many use the end of the season as the natural breaking point to decide to upgrade or move on to something new.

Complicating the Winter brokerage season this year more than others is the fact that we have two major hurricanes that have displaced and in some cases destroyed some of the boats in the Southern part of the country. With damages estimated to be in the deep seven figures, you can be sure that insurance companies will be looking to sell the salvaged vessels on the secondary market to recoup some of their monetary loss. Regulations on disclosure vary from state to state, but tradesman and investors looking to turn a profit will often buy some of these boats- recondition them and place them on the market for resale. There is nothing illegal in this at all so long as it is disclosed, but the varied definition of a reconditioned boat means that there will be boats on the market that might slip through the proverbial cracks. There is a broad discrepancy from state to state on what needs to be disclosed. Unlike the auto industry which tracks the national titling of automobiles from state to state, there is no central entity that does that for marine vessels. The United States vessel documentation center a division of the department of homeland security showed that approximately 11.86M boats were registered in 2016 out of the total of 15.8M boats in use (about 75%). The balance of those boats are registered by state entities which provides a wide gap for boats that might not have the proper designation of having been totaled as an insurance loss or reconditioned. That might will mean that that 'deal' that appears to be too good to bee true- might actually be so.

Now more than ever, it will be important to engage in a qualified marine professional certified by the Association of Yacht Sales Professionals (YBBA) to help you find your next boat or to sell your current boat. Much like there has been after Hurrican Sandy and Katrina- the deals will flood the market and cloud the potential pools of safe boats.

Karma Yacht Sales is a YBAA broker and can help with all aspects of your boat search or sale. Call us to find out what we can do for you. 773-254-0200

To learn more Read: Florida Keys News-Agency recovers 762 Florida Keys boats and counting

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Spiders on the boat- Tips for getting rid of them and keeping them away.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 16:03:00 +0000

If you are like us, the past four weeks have been a constant battle to keep the collection of eight-legged friends from taking over your boat. Many of our concierge clients have asked: "What can you do to get rid of them?"
In the delicate ecosphere that is a boat, Spiders are opportunists and seem to multiply by the thousands in dry weather (like we have had as of the last 50 days). The rain spells that we had in July helped the mayfly population explode as well ,which is a natural treat for many of the common boat spiders (aka barn spiders). Enclosed are tips from our experience of owning and caring for boats.

1. Prevention

While there are many commercially available sprays that will help you part with your money in $8-10 increments, the best method is prevention- That usually starts in the off-season.

We like the mothball method combined with the dryer sheet method. Place mothballs in compartments around the boat when you store for the winter. Take a few plastic containers with lids (like the kind chinese take-out come in) filled with mothballs in various areas. The lids come in handy to curtail the smell of the mothballs once you want to use the boat .

The dryer sheets in various cabin lockers work wonders too. For some odd reason, our arachnid friends dislike the scent of both of these and won't go near them.

Regular washing of the boat and removal of nests and eggs helps a lot. The egg sacs are often filled with microscopic spider-lings which go everywhere. They mature rather quickly in the hot weather we have been having and will be spinning their own web condos in no time if not removed promptly. Don't be surprised if they set up shop from one day to the next even after a thorough cleaning and removal. It seems like a never ending battle at times.

2. Getting Rid of them

The incense method works great internally and on the exterior of the boat. Having the incense smoke directed at the web will draw out the spider and have them bail. At that point, you can evict them or assist them in meeting their maker. Direct your attention to the egg sacs and areas where the nests are located. You will have the best success in working towards decreasing your spider population through a strategic approach.

Once gone, switch into prevention mode and keep them 'gone' for good.

We hope this helps and if we can be of any assistance by adding you to our concierge program, give us a call and we can quote your boat on our services.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Listing your boat and Selling your Boat- There IS a difference.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 24 Oct 2016 20:39:00 +0000

By KYS Editor

"List for show, broker for dough".

We have been very busy most of the Summer Season reviewing client's boats, doing boat evaluations and walk-through of some of Lake Michigan's most desirable boats. As the season comes to a close, we thought there is no more perfect time than the present to make the distinction between listing your boat and Selling your boat.

We take a full consultative approach in our brokerage listing process. It starts with the first phone call in to us when you have made your mind up to part with your boat. We understand that it can often be a bit of an emotional hurdle to overcome as a boat becomes a part of the family. There are many family memories on board a boat, so we do a fair amount of listening to identify the timing and just what will be sold with the boat. We take a few facts down about the boat and usually follow the call up with a visit of the vessel to procure an accurate inventory of the equipment and systems on board. We serve as your adviser in the process to help you navigate the staging of the boat to ensure those first impressions of your floating dream are positive with prospective buyers.

Next comes the comparative process where we access the Multiple listing service (MLS) for boats and two other proprietary evaluation programs to identify a 60-90-120+ day marketing plan for your boat. We hone in in the right price to attract the buyers and encourage offers. We consult with you on what features or changes can be made to the boat to enhance the value. Fully understanding that the goal is to sell her, we keep the client in mind when making these recommendations.

Once we have identified an asking price, we visit the boat again, stage her and take photos for the MLS listing page.

Once the information has been verified, she is officially on the market and we start the promotion of the boat via active e-marketing and announcements to other brokers.

As members of the Yacht Broker's Association of America, we work professionally with other YBAA brokers around the country to find a buyer for your boat. We also have a proprietary database of over 3800 clients and sailors that we promote your boat with. Doing business with a YBAA broker means that you can be assured one of the highest levels of professionalism and ethics in the industry. As a buyer, working with a YBAA broker means that you will be fairly dealt with using legally reviewed purchase /sale agreements that protect both BUYER and SELLER.

So while our list might not be as long as other 'brokers' we work hard for everyone of our clients to ensure satisfaction in the listing process. We also don't use our listing to sell late model new boats. This is especially important with some of the most popular brands on the water. So give us a call today and let's get your boat listed. FALL is the perfect time to place your boat on the market!

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

FIRST LOOK: 2015 Beneteau Oceanis 60

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 19:20:00 +0000

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

C&C 30 OD - The 30 Foot Rocket ship

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 13:30:00 +0000

C&C 30 OD- The 30 foot Rocket ship

There has been a lot of hype about this boat and we are happy to announce that it will finally make her Midwest Debut at the 2015 Verve Cup.

Enclosed is some great footage captured by our fellow C&C dealers.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Life Lessons Learned from Sailing ~ by Mike Thoney

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 21:11:00 +0000

Life Lessons Learned from Sailing

by Mike Thoney

Those of us who sail have learned many things on a boat besides the names of various pieces of hardware, how to tie knots, and sailing terms used to communicate among crewmembers. We might not always realize that we have learned and continue to learn beyond the physical boundaries of the boat, but we do, and whether you sail together as a family, or are part of a crew on a race boat, here are some of the beneficial things that happen aboard a boat which can translated to real life experiences and events. These lessons are fitting for kids and adults alike, and are but a few of the reasons that sailing is a great way to spend leisure time.

Sailing teaches us to be prepared. Because there are always some unknowns involved with being on the water, we learn to be ready to anticipate and deal with things that we might not experience at home, school, or work. A prepared sailor will likely be more prepared for unexpected things that pop up in everyday life as well.

Sailing teaches teamwork. If the crew on a sailboat doesn’t act as a team, the boat will not perform to its fullest potential. Everyone on a sailboat must work together to make sailing easier, faster, and more fun for everyone aboard, which helps us to learn the importance of working well with others as we go through our daily routines.

Sailing teaches patience. If you’ve ever been trying to reach a port that is in sight but the wind is dying or changing directions, you know and understand the importance of being patient and dealing with the situation. Oftentimes in these situations, you learn alternative ways to play the cards you’ve been dealt.

Sailing teaches decision-making. If you’re in charge of a boat, you will be making decisions for the good of the boat and the crew, and you have to learn to make the right ones so that you can get to your destination safely, quickly, and have fun doing it. Your crew will appreciate the fact that you are making the right choices, especially in less than ideal sailing conditions.

Sailing teaches communication. Once you make those decisions mentioned above, it is important to be able to make your crew understand what has to be done aboard the boat to make things work the way they should. If you can do this on a boat, you can do it at school, at home, or on your job.

Sailing teaches confidence. There is confidence in knowing that you have made the choices that make your boat move through the water in light wind, or to get you home safely when something breaks or when the weather turns ugly. You will gain the confidence in knowing that your knowledge of your boat and its environment will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone aboard.

Sailing teaches responsibility. You, as a captain of your boat, are responsible for the safety of the boat and all aboard, and you are the person to whom they will look when the time comes do anything related to the operation of your boat.

Sailing teaches honesty and the importance of playing by the rules. There are certain ways to act and things that must be done aboard a sailboat, and even more so aboard a racing sailboat. There are strict rules that must be followed to be successful, and you have to play by these rules, for there is honor involved, and no one who cheats in a race will ever have the respect of his or her competitors. This is an important lesson that is learned early by junior sailors, and one that usually stays with them for life.

Sailing teaches us how to deal with the unknown and to operate in a constantly changing environment. The old saying – “You can’t fool Mother Nature” is especially true on the water, and sailing is a great way to learn that. We cannot control weather, and we don’t always experience the weather that we would like, so a sailboat becomes an excellent classroom for learning how to handle unexpected situations and changes on the water. This also flows over to everyday life, because if you learn to confidently and competently handle unknowns on the water, it becomes easier to handle unexpected changes that occur daily.

These are merely a few of the beneficial lessons to gain from our experiences aboard a sailboat, and there are certainly many more if we think about it a bit. All the more reasons to learn to sail, get aboard a sailboat and start enjoying a lifestyle that is not only fun, but can enrich the lives of your entire family!

To learn more about Mike Thoney.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Three reasons why selecting Bermuda for the America's cup is a bad decision for the sport of sailing.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 22:20:00 +0000

Three reasons why selecting Bermuda for the America's cup is a bad decision for the sport of sailing.

Written by: Lou Sandoval

In the next 24 hours, if the 'tea leaves' are correct, we will hear an announcement that the 2017 America's Cup will be held in Bermuda. If there was ever a clearer lead-in, granting the AC World Series event for 2015 to Bermuda is a clear indicator that San Diego is most likely not in the running.

Many outside the sport might shrug this off as something you would expect. Sailing after all has the perception of being a sport of the rich and famous. A past-time reserved with those who 'have the means'.

As an industry we don't do much to dispel those perceptions. Certain aspects of the past time benefit from enhancing the perception, highlighting the high cost of participation and the luxury or exclusive aspects limited for the wealthy. Moving the venue to Bermuda, while a tax benefit for the current winner, does serve to place some obstacles that further the outreach that the marine industry has been working on over the past five years through initiatives at US Sailing and the Recreational Boating Leadership Council. I'm sure there are some well thought out and valid economic reasons for why Bermuda was selected. Enclosed is my take on how these barriers might be bad for the growth of the sport overall.

1. Exclusivity: Placing the sport in a remote location, means that only those that follow the sport will watch it on web relay and tracker. While the 34th AC revolutionized this via the wizardry of Stan Honey, it presents a very one-dimensional appeal to the sport.

2. "Too rich for my blood": The remote location of Bermuda furthers the perception that you have to be someone special (albeit wealthy) to travel to participate and watch the sport. A rich man's playground if you may. After the last AC, I was amazed at the number of 'non- sailors' who got caught up in the final races. People in "car washes" recognized Team Oracle gear. Comments on how picturesque the San Francisco backdrop was for the race were echoed by many 'non-traditional' fans.

3. "Sailing is too god-like": The distance of a remote island and accompanying perception seek to further alienate the engagement of a younger diverse generation.

The problem with that "island" approach is that it is generational and very limiting as it only seeks to appeal to those already in the sport. You see as the 76.4 Million baby boomers (born 1946 -1964) edge towards retirement at a rate of 10,000 per day they leave a participation void. Behind them the engagement and participation rates for the sport of sailing among the over 50 million Generation X (Born 1965-1980) and over 56 Million Millennials (Born 1980-2000) toils in the single digits for historically mainstream participants. The National Marine Manufacturer's Association reports overall participation rate for 18+ year olds at 26-32% . This figure includes small craft and power boats as well.

Coming off an exciting finish for the 34th America's Cup in 2013, the sport of sailing could have used this momentum to engage a whole new generation of American youth in the sport.

I fully understand that there are far smarter people than I making these decisions and people with a far deeper legacy in the sport. Coming from someone who was exposed to the sport in my youth , but learned to really love it in adulthood, I see the move to Bermuda as one that may undo the work that many of us have been engaged in - exposing a whole new younger bloodline to the sport of sailing. Engaging a new generation of sailors who look and think much differently than those currently in the sport.

This task seems to be a bit out of reach for now, far away on an island.

Lou Sandoval is the Co-Owner/Co-Founder of Karma Yacht Sales, the Midwest dealer for Beneteau, C&C and Alerion boats. He was exposed to sailing at Boy Scout Camp in his youth and after a 17 year career in the biomedical industry he took on the role of entrepreneur and business owner by purchasing the boat dealership based in Chicago. He is active in the leadership of the sport of sailing and serves as an opinion leader in the marine industry serving on several boards that seek to expand the participation of sailing and boating.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Why We do the MAC

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 19 Aug 2014 18:16:00 +0000

2014 Race to Mackinac from Froeter Design Company on Vimeo.

If you are a third coast sailor like many of us, you know like the sun will rise in the morning that each July you will find yourself on a boat in the middle of Lake Michigan with a group of your best friends and family. You will be doing the "MAC" as it is endearingly referred to. Mike Wolf, owner of a 2009 Beneteau First 10R named "CHIEF" came up with this very well done video call "THE MAC".

One of our favorite quotes from the narration of the short film sums up why we jump on a smelly boat each Summer for 2.5 days. "It's an annual ritual, a reunion, a test of skill, of boat handling and navigational judgement and once in a while, sanity. When it's all said and done it's about relationships, stories and the greatest of memories."

It is the Mac, It is what we do!

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Learn About the NEW Beneteau CARBON EDITION FIRST Series boats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 17:57:00 +0000

The New Beneteau CARBON EDITION FIRST Series boats come with some fast amenities such as sprits, Carbon fiber Spars and popular upgrades that will have you looking good and winning Races. Download the CARBON Series brochure and contact us for more information.

First 35 Carbon Series

First 30-35-40 ANGL

Publish at Calameo or read more publications.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Power Reaching in the New C&C 30 One-Design

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 15:36:00 +0000

Post by Chuck Allen.

What is the new C&C 30 One-Design like under Sail? Take a look at this video and see. We are booking trips for prospective Owners this September to Newport to sail the C&C on the bay. Contact us to be added to the list and to receive the NEW C&C OD catalog.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-773-254-0200

Tuesday Tips: Winch Preventative Maintenance

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 17:10:00 +0000

We thought we would start a series of DIY Posts called "Tuesday Tips" that walk you through some of the most commonly asked questions we receive on our service desk. This one is a recent one from one of our owners that called and asked about how to disassemble, check and lube his Lewmar Ocean Winches.

While the specific disassembly might vary from brand to brand- the essential components of the winch are similiar and the routine maintenance should be done routinely (i.e. seasonally at minimum or if you race the boat perhaps on a bi-seasonal schedule).

We thought that we would start with winches because it's often one of the most used, yet most neglected part of the sailboat. When the fail (eg. lock or jam) it is usually because of a few reasons:

1. Lack of routine maintenance

2. Palls break. (fatigue due to low lubrication (see #1)

3. Excessive dirt/grime build-up (see #1)

So at the end of the day, by spending a few minutes this Spring, you might save yourself a bigger headache or worst yet, a failure when you need them most. Spare parts can be ordered from Lewmar or Harken or obtained through your local ship store (eg. West Marine).

Bring in a photo of the winch (smartphones are great for this) and know the size (usually stamped on the head of the winch.

Some other supplies you will need before you start:

1. Polyvinyl gloves
2. Shop rags
3. Plastic bin to hold the parts
4. Winch lube

The videos we've enclosed here breakdown the process for each of the major brands of newer winches. You tube has an assortment of other makes models etc.

Have fun!

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

St. Barths Bucket Regatta

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 20:31:00 +0000

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 773.294.3180

I recently spent a week in St. Barthelemy (St. Barths) in the French West Indies, performing as crew on a 112 ft. ketch-rigged Alloy Yacht (Ron Holland-designed) named Blue Too.

This was the third year I have been lucky enough to crew on this boat for 'the Bucket', and it is still a bit surreal to spend a week in March racing in a Superyacht regatta, surrounded by some of the largest sailboats ever made (Maltese Falcon, Panthalassa, Seahawk, Zenji, Hyperion to name just a few) alongside some of the best, most prominent sailors in the sport. It is truly a week of fantastic sailing.

What I love the most about this week is the reminder that sailing is completely a team sport and that camaraderie is something that sailing breeds better than most sports I have ever played. When you race sailboats larger than dinghys, you quickly get used to the fact that not much can be accomplished without good teamwork, acting in concert with one another. When you are on a 112 ft. boat that has all of its power supplied hydraulically, takes almost 2 minutes to complete a tack, and requires five crew 30 minutes to 'wool' a spinnaker, you become aware of how important each member of the team is, and that each 'job' has to be completed in order for the boat to accomplish anything, and has to be done nearly flawlessly for the boat to perform well.

We on Blue Too have done very well in this regatta each year. In 2012, we ended up Third overall (2-6-2); last year we had to drop out of a race when a crew member was injured (he was injured but is now OK), but still finished Fourth (1-13-2). This year, the expectations were high, and we didn't disappoint-coming in Third (8-3-1).

What this regatta offers a Lake Michigan sailor like me is a great deal of perspective; perspective on how different but how similar a boat three times the size of my own can be; how the camaraderie of our sport so easily transcends language, bodies of water, and level of experience - as most sailors are just great people, wherever you are.

I consider myself lucky to have 'found' sailing, as it has provided me many memories, opportunities, successes, and even failures. This is exactly why I am in the business of helping others 'find' this sport/lifestyle, too.

KYS Launches Facebook Social Media Experiment on April Fool's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 03 Apr 2014 23:13:00 +0000

April 3, 2014
By KYS Editor

On April 1, 2014 Karma Yacht Sales set out to accomplish a few things in the form of an April Fools 'joke'. The 'joke' was launched in the form of a mock Press Release laced with Google Analytics to track the results and to measure to what level 'followers' on Facebook and Twitter would go. It sought to verify what they were liking or following and to what degree followers would read the 'prank' link. It was also a guerrilla marketing tactic as one of the outcomes was that it lead to increased web traffic originating from both social media channels - Facebook and Twitter.

The post went live at approximately 10:32am on April First with the heading " PRESS RELEASE- this news broke late yesterday. Boat Entrepreneurs expand offerings. Karma Auto Group to Open May 1st." #getbusydriving #getbusysailing"

The post was placed on Facebook and cross-posted to Twitter. The results were varied over the first two hours of tracking the post:

In the first 2 hours there were 800 clicks on the link out of 2300 views. 47 likes. 4 shares 12 comments. 10 comments without clicking on the link to read.

Breaking down the Statistics: 65% of social media traffic resulted in views only. A smaller percentage (35%) actually took time to read the press release itself. 83% of the individuals that commented on the post did so without clicking through to read the content of the release.

The post was amended at 5:49 pm that evening to reveal the April Fools prank with corresponding Facebook /Twitter posts.

The 'prank' was the idea of Karma Yacht Sales Co-Owner Lou Sandoval who manages the marketing for the boat dealership and serves as the social media manager.

"It was a bit risky- but in the end it reflects the light hearted nature with which we operate. We try to not take ourselves to seriously." said Sandoval "I got the idea from listening to an NPR story that morning. You really wonder if individuals really read what we put on our social media outlets."

While the group is not looking to make any conclusions or correlations- it does provide an insight into what 'followers' activities might mean.

To see the original Post/Prank.
For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

A funny thing happened on the way to the Forum

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 20:15:00 +0000

A funny thing happened on the way to the Forum

Changing the Dynamic- My impression of the Inaugural US Sailing Leadership Forum

By Lou Sandoval , Co-Owner/Co-Founder Karma Yacht Sales

“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” unknown

I’m a huge believer that nothing happens to us and people don’t come in to our lives that aren’t intended to provoke a situational awareness and produce an intentional break in our way of being and thinking. I had one of those experiences in route to the Inaugural US Sailing Leadership Forum in San Diego this past week. In what started as a day that dumped six inches of snow on Chicago and a hustle just to get to the airport, I was pleasantly surprised when I had a gentleman with a sailcloth folio take up the seat next to me. “Are you a Sailor?” I asked “Are you going to the forum?” – “I am” he responded on both accounts. That dovetailed into an exchange of ideas that lasted almost one half of the four hour flight to the West coast. My “seat neighbor” was Jim Spiegel the Executive director for the St. Joseph Junior Foundation in St. Joe’s, Michigan. Like most sailors- we shared a passion for the sport and a genuine interest in making sure that generations beyond ours continued to enjoy it.

Our conversation covered everything from our start in the sport to the state of the sport and our vision for how we might change the dynamic. I learned a bunch from my new found friend, his perspective and the great passion that he has for sharing sailing with youth that might not otherwise have a chance to get out on the water. He shared the challenges that he is up against and we shared ideas on how he might approach those challenges.

Looking back at the week, it truly set the tone for what US Sailing was looking to accomplish with the forum- collaboration. In looking at the age of the attendees and the number of women that attended the conference, it renewed my hopes that the sport is not going away easy. It takes these moments of sharing ideas for us all to get the successes that have worked in other parts of the country. In the opening session, keynote speakers Ken Read & Gary Jobson charged each attendee to come away with five new things.

For me personally, I would categorize my ‘Top Five take-aways' as follows:

KEEP SAILING SIMPLE: As Sailors, we have a tendency to drink too much of the proverbial ‘Kool-Aid’. Because we are passionate about the sport- we expect everyone to see things through our ‘passion point’. This isn't always the case. In attracting a broader audience- we need to understand that someone with no sailing background is lost in the technical jargon that we so easily use to describe the sport. This key observation came when my fellow presenter Jason Thompson, stated that he found it ironic that the video that we showed of the America's Cup campaign looked interesting- but because he had no background in the sport, many of the ‘isms’ were lost on him. In this same category comes the fact that we focus way too much on sailboat racing. You have to walk before you run and often and there is a huge push to race before we truly get why sailing is special. Things change on the water. Getting people to “get” the lifestyle is important before we start complicating things with a whole new range of terminology and ‘rules’.

Control our own Narrative: I’m cheating a bit on this, but this has been a pet peeve of mine for some time. If you open any sail publication – you will see a focus on the uber expensive and ‘out of reach’ boats. The ‘ooh –aah’ factor is “full on” and in play. What this portrayal does is further the narrative that sailing is exclusive, expensive and for the ‘select few’. How many times have you opened a business publication and seen a financial services ad with an old retired couple sailing into the sunset? It furthers the thought that sailing is so expensive and you can only do it when: a. you have a retired person’s schedule and b. have accumulated wealth. Nowhere, is there a discussion of the ‘spectrum of participation’ (more on that later). I would add to this that the imagery (i.e the advertising photos we use to depict the sport) we utilize to "tell the sailing story" needs to be consistent with the portion of the demographic we seek to attract. Simply put, we need to continue to show more women in the sport and more diverse participants. We know older participants are in the sport- that is great, but our story should show families using boats to commune and children on boats doing what kids do best- have fun. This is everyone's responsibility, but especially professional media and all industry stakeholders. We, the participants of the sport, need to be the ambassadors that talk about the lifestyle in simple terms. The fact that sailing is sensory stimulation that you can feel (wind in your hair; warm sun on your face); hear (turbulence of the water) and see (all the great scenery there is to see of the land from the water). It truly is one of life’s greatest experiences and in a way- a very therapeutic one where you forget whichever stressor you might be undergoing in your ‘on land’ life.

STEM is the Way: I’ve been preaching this in my circles for some time. I have to say that very few of the sexagenarian and septuagenarians of the world ,don’t get this. The terrain in our country has changed from a production based economy to a consumption based economy. I read once that American school kids rank in the bottom fifth of industrialized nations. We currently import foreign talent in allied health sciences and computer technology because not enough of our own children take up the science disciplines as a course of study. A ‘sailboat’ is the world’s best science ‘wet lab’. As a science geek myself, I get this and personally, it pains me that many don’t understand that utilizing programs such as US Sailing’s REACH Program or the curriculum established by the National Sailing Hall of Fame Consortium (NHSHOF) are a positive for the sport. If community sailing centers are able to engage the application of STEM education and partner with public school systems, they will make sailing relevant again. The sailing part can augment a STEM based after-school program and be the laboratory that provides the practical application of geometry, calculus, applied physics, biology.. The list is endless. One reason, kids struggle with Math and Science is that they don’t see the relevance to their daily lives. If we use sailing and being on the water as the way to personalize Math and science, what might be otherwise ‘boring’ subjects in classrooms- become real and practical. They become relevant and sailing does also! It also allows us to take sailing to a whole new generation of sailors of diverse backgrounds that we aren't serving today.

Diversity “What we look like today is not what we will look like tomorrow”: As someone who never ever thought they would end up on a sailboat, much less owning a company in the boating industry, this is very near and dear. Add to that, that I have two daughters and I harbor hope that the world they grow up in will be vastly different "than the one in which I did"- IS my driving force. I can revisit the statistics, but I think the picture is clear. For sailing (and boating in general to stay alive) it is imperative that today’s participants make the sport as inclusive as possible. The ‘low hanging fruit’ is at minimum meeting the statistical numbers on gender. More women active in sailing is good for the sport both now and in the future. Fast forward fifteen years… the girls in sailing programs or going on family sailing excursions today will someday have families. There is a greater chance that sailing will be a part of their stable of activities if they are engaged in the sport today. Short-term benefits and long-term benefits abound in this strategy- but it takes everyone promoting this. Extending the reach of the sport to ethnic groups that might not be predominant in the sport today- is also very healthy for sailing.

Trust me, I’ve seen the ugly side where participants want to keep sailing as exclusive as they can for the privileged few. I’m realistic enough to understand that this group may be around, but it is slowly becoming the minority itself. Nature has a way of leveling these things you know. I’m confident after seeing the participants at the forum that the future of sailing is bright and inside of the stodgy old ‘network’, a new era of leadership is emerging- one that is younger and vastly different than those that came before them. This group will stand on their shoulders as they stood on the shoulders of those that came before them. Again- it will take every participant in sailing becoming ambassadors for this cause- ask someone new out to sail. Share your passion!

Sailing Participation is a Spectrum: In some segments of the industry there is a zero-sum mentality that prevails. Charter & Fractional sailing companies mystify the cost of participation at the expense of the sport. New boat sales compound the brokerage market in hopes of deferring used boat sales and redirecting towards new boat sales. What many of these groups have in common is that they operate out of scarcity and a dwindling market. They seek to carve up the “pie” vs. baking more pies. In order for sailing to grow (and boating too) they have to look at the market as a ‘delicate ecosystem’ in the words of NMMA president Thom Dammrich. The spectrum of participation is much like that of home ownership. There are apartments that people can rent, or condos that they can buy until they are ready for the ‘house’. It’s all dependent on what phase of the cycle they are in; how spontaneous they want to be (on a scheduled number of days or free to go when you can) or their time and availability. This spectrum has a place for everyone and at every price range for different budgets. The thing to remember about sailing is that you don’t need to own a boat to participate. It is in participating that you learn to love it and that may lead to becoming a greater stakeholder. This mission is a responsibility of everyone in the ‘ecosystem’- yacht clubs, outfitters, brokers, sailing centers, charter operators, fractional lease companies. Everyone needs to strive for new participants to achieve a quality experience at all levels.

At the end of it all- it is important to move the sailing community past the awareness phase and into a phase of acting on our new knowledge. So the follow-up to this forum and action items will be most the most critical steps coming out of the San Diego forum. I have my list as I’m sure many attendees have theirs. It will be important for each participant to take their list to the local level and get busy. I’ll do my part.

If you didn't make it this year- put the next SLF on your calendar. I challenge you to become part of what sailing is yet to become.

To learn more about the ‘Forum” visit: http://sailingleadership.org/

Resources:

REACH Program

National Sailing Hall of Fame -STEM

www.ussailing.org

Stay Up to date on your KYS info- "Like" us on Facebook. For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

WING Sails- Are Not just for America's Cup Boat's Anymore!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 20:18:00 +0000

We thought you might find this video from the French Sailing Site Voile et Voillier (trans: Sailing & Sailboats)

Post by Voiles et Voiliers.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

The Family that Sails together... Back to the Mac- Beneteau Horizons

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 19:15:00 +0000

The following Story - Back to the Mack- ran in the July 2013 Issue of Beneteau Horizons.

Back to the Mack

With the start of the Chicago Yacht Club's 105th Race To Mackinac Friday, July 12, a grueling 289.4 nautical mile race from just off Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois to Mackinac Island, Michigan, we sat down with Beneteau owner Emmy Gallagher as she prepares to join her husband Matt and four other crew aboard their Beneteau 37, Endeavour, for the race.

Emmy has been sailing the waters around Chicago since she was a child. Later, after relocating to the Chesapeake Bay area, she became involved in racing. While Emmy wouldn't describe her husband Matt as an "outdoorsman type," his need for speed paired with her love of sailing was the perfect match to fuel the couple's passion for sailboat racing.

Since returning to Chicago and starting a family together (Charlie is age 5 1/2, and Maggie is age 3 1/2), the Gallagher's are familiar faces within the Chicago Yacht Club's racing community. Emmy explained, "We live near Wrigley Field where it's just a short five-minute car ride to the dock. The Wednesday night beer can races are great for our family, and the kids love it!"

This is Matt and Emmy's third entry into the Race To Mackinac. "We're racing with the same crew from last year. They're a great group of guys with a good blend of experience and strength," she said.

When asked why they train for the race, Emmy told us, "The Mack is awesome. We don't do it to win necessarily, but more to participate and have fun. We just want everyone to make it over the line safely."

Curious as to what led to the Gallagher's decision to purchase their Beneteau 37, Emmy recalled, "I've been on many types of boats through the years, and Matt did a lot of research. We considered the Beneteau 34, but the 37 is the perfect size for our family. It's manageable, easy to sail singlehanded and the two cabins work for us."

Matt and Emmy purchased Endeavour in 2008 from Karma Yacht Sales who was referred to them by friends in D.C. Since then, Jack and Lou have become personal friends. Emmy remarked, "We would definitely buy from Karma again. They really go the extra mile."

Before we wrapped up our conversation with Emmy, we asked what advice she would give to someone with an interest in racing, but unsure of how to get involved. Emmy responded, "The biggest hurdle is yourself. Pick up a six-pack and head to the dock on a Wednesday evening. You'll for sure be invited to help out, so just show up! The racing community is very welcoming."

A toast to you Endeavour Crew! Have a great time during the CYC Race to Mackinac.

To view the original format.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

BROKERAGE REPORT: May Brokerage Sales Highest in Five Years

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 18:18:00 +0000

May Brokerage Sales Highest in Five Years

By John Burnham | Yacht World

U.S. brokers reporting in SoldBoats.com had a good month in May, selling more boats than in any single month since 2007. Sales had improved in March and April, compared to 2012, but in May they climbed significantly, with 3,730 boats reported. This was well above the five-year average for May, of 3,293 boats sold, and also more than 100 boats above 2012, when 3,589 were sold.

Sailboat sales continued relatively strong, with 607 boats sold, a 5 percent increase compared to May 2012. More importantly for the market as a whole, sales of powerboat also rose 4 percent, to 3,123 boats.

Better sales were reported among all sizes of boat 45 feet or shorter, with 1,691 closings for boats under 35 feet, a 4 percent gain. In the 36- to 45-foot range, sales were 3 percent higher, with 759 boats sold. The only size range to record lower sales was 46 to 55 feet, down 3 boats compared to May 212, with 178 boats sold.

Big-boat sales were also strong. Among superyachts (over 80 feet), 20 were sold, up 10 from the year before. And in the 56- to 79-foot size, 82 boats changed hands, up from 76.

The total value of boats sold in May rose by $98 million, mainly on the strength of superyacht sales (up $91 million). By contrast, boats 56 to 79 feet sold at a total price that was $6 million or 10 percent below the previous May. The market under 55 feet made up the difference, with a total value gain of $13 million.

Through the first five months of the year, overall sales were 1 percent lower than in 2012, with 12,659 boats sold. The total value of the boats sold was 15 percent higher, with $1.66 billion changing hands.

Karma Yacht Sales is a Full Service Dealer. Sales~Service~Brokerage. As YBAA members we operate with the highest level of integrity in representing you on the buying AND Selling end of the transaction. We represents ALL types of boats, not just Beneteau. Contact Us to inquire about our Brokerage Services.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Beneteau FIRST 25S: When you just have to get out and SAIL!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:40:00 +0000

Summer has finally arrived! There is no problem getting a Slip in Chicago- you need an affordable boat. Karma Yacht Sales has the answer: The FIRST 25S!

We currently have Hull #640 available to see by appointment and immediate delivery for this season.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Morgan Shoal: One of the South Lakefront's hidden Gems.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 May 2013 17:22:00 +0000

How many times have you sailed just off shore of the Morgan Shoal area and wondered what that protruding corner is about? A potentially damaging venture for Sailboats- the shoal and the exposed boiler is from a shipwreck dating back to the early 1900s.
For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

It is never too soon to create your next memory on a sailboat!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:17:00 +0000

It is never too late to create your next memory on a sailboat!

By Lou Sandoval

Photo Credit: Bill Springer- Bill Springer's Boat Blog

It might have been the rainstorm in the horizon or the intent stare and look of comfort on the face of the little baby in his father's arms- or perhaps the title was a grabber: "Sailing with a wickedly cute 6 month old baby in the BVI". Regardless, It made me think back to when our two daughters were younger and their first time on the boat. Four months for one and six-months for the other is when we captured their first few memories on our boat. Mind you - our backdrop was the great skyline of the city of Chicago and not the always beautiful BVIs. The impact is the same- get them started early.

Numerous impact studies have shown that exposing your children to as many experiences early in their life improves their development and may provide a hobby or (gasp... ) a profession down the line. You just never know. The captivating part of these photos is that it took me back to our girls first experience on-the water.

We often hear from clients how their young families challenge them to balance it all. My wife and I can relate: family, careers, school commitments, kid's activities. It can be much. What we have found is that in the end it comes down to making the family moments count. My wife and I both lead brisk schedules that can consume us during the week. We push back hard on outside commitments that pull us away from the quality time with the girls. We've found that the boat becomes a bit of a safe haven for that. Go down to the boat, turn the phones off- cast off the dock lines and away we go.

I fully recognize that our girls have the benefit of growing up in the sport, but I'm sensitive to the fact that is not the case for many children as boating still has many preconceptions to overcome. Much maligned as strictly held for the 'wealthy'- boating serves the communal human nature that we all possess. Think of it this way- why do people go 'away' on vacation? Why do people purchase a summer cottage to get 'out of town'? Both of these 'vehicles', the vacation and the cottage are ways to commune together. Creating memories one adventure at a time. Although the trip is not far... it serves to recharge you and at least spend some time catching up with those you love the most. Experiences you will treasure for years to come.

So next time I see someone wearing one of those hideous B.O.A.T shirts - It will bring a smile to my face because for me B.O.A.T means: "Bringing on another treasure".

Lou Sandoval is the co-Owner/Co-Founder of Karma Yacht Sales, LLC the Lake Michigan Sailboat dealer representing Beneteau. He was first exposed to sailing through Scouting in Whitehall, MI at Owassippe Scout Reservation. Many years later after a successful career in the medical/biopharmaceutical industry, he and his business partner founded Karma Yacht Sales and purchased the existing Beneteau dealership. KYS has been serving Lake Michigan since 2002 and has been the recipient of numerous awards for customer service and sales. Lou is married. He and his wife Sonia have two young daughters and relish the opportunities to share Chicago's best unhidden secret with them - our lakefront.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Yachtworld Launches new iPad app for Pre-Owned boats

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 21:34:00 +0000

The official iPad app of YachtWorld, featuring the world's largest selection of brokerage boats for sale. The YachtWorld iPad app gives you access to 120,000+ boats on YachtWorld.com. Search, browse and contact brokers – all within the app.

Key features include:

1. Landscape orientation allows full-screen viewing of pictures
2. Recently viewed boats are automatically saved for easy comparison
3. Save your searches for one-touch access to favorite boats
4. Add boats to your Favorites list for fast retrieval
5. Optimized for the new iPad Retina display

The Home Page Categories will quickly get you to the type of boat you are looking for whether it's a Sail Boat, Motor Yacht, Super Yacht or Sport Fishing Boat.

In addition to helping you find your next boat, the app features a showcase of photo stories from YachtWorld’s award-winning editorial team. Compare best-in-class brokerage models, view the latest designs inside and out, explore a superyacht or two, and try on some exotic charter yacht vacations for size. New Editorial Showcase stories are posted every week.

For more information

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Dear Mother Nature: Please send rain and snow this winter

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 20:46:00 +0000

Dear Mother Nature: Please Send rain and snow this winter

With water levels at an all time low- navigational challenges loom everywhere for recreational and commercial boats

By: Lou Sandoval
December 5, 2012

It is very noticeable in Chicago as you walk down the lakefront and see water marks indicating the water level heights from years past. In some areas the marks extend two, sometimes three feet above the current water levels. A stark indication of how far down levels have dropped. This is consistent on the Michigan, Wisconsin , Illinois and Indiana shores of Lake Michigan.

Lay publications have written stories about how this drought filled summer of 2012 and unseasonably warm Winter of 2011 help set the stage for record lows. (Chicago Tribune Story: October19, 2012). Add to this the unseasonably warm weather as of late and you have the makings of a record setting Winter of 2012.

We were casually reminded just this week as the mercury reached a high of 75 on Monday December 3rd. Visitors from warmer climates, such as California or Florida have commented on how much warmer it is in Chicago as compared to their home states.

The enclosed video from ABC affiliate WZZM-13 in Michigan speaks of islands forming off the coast of Saugatuck, MI. Calling the situation a 'disaster', one that not even frequent dredging can remedy. It has boaters of all kinds- commercial and recreational bracing themselves for a Spring shocker should this trend continue through out the upcoming Winter.

Marina operators and the commercial boating industry are the hardest hit as state funds run dry. Reeling from the deficit laden budgets of the recent recession. The trend has many marine professionals concerned about what the future will bring.

One thing is sure, if history is correct- this all comes in cycles and hopefully we are seeing the worst. Only time will tell.

Additional Reading:

Dry summer helps push Lake Michigan water levels to near-record lows-Chicago Tribune

Drought drops Lake Michigan water to near record low-Chicago Tribune

Boating experts call low-water levels a disaster-Video WZZM-13 report

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Beneteau visionary honored for influence on marine industry

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 15:44:00 +0000

Beneteau visionary honored for influence on marine industry

Groupe Beneteau
November 2, 2012
Filed under News

Press Release

Annapolis, MD, November 2, 2012 – Active Interest Media (AIM) Marine Group held their Inaugural Editor’s Choice Awards on Friday October 26, 2012 during the 53rd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show where the group honored Madame Annette Bénéteau-Roux with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

AIM Marine Group, publisher of magazines such as PassageMaker, POWER & MOTORYACHT, Yachts International, SAIL and Soundings hosted the event to pay tribute to the marine industry’s best of 2012. While presenting Bénéteau-Roux the Lifetime Achievement Award, Efrem Zimbalist III, chief executive of AIM joked to a crowd of approximately 300 people, “Once in a while a resume takes 45 minutes to read, but even that amount of time wouldn’t approach explanation of the icon’s influence on our industry.”
Madame Annette Bénéteau-Roux is the granddaughter of Benjamin Bénéteau who founded the Beneteau shipyard nearly 130 years ago. Today, the company continues to thrive under the leadership of Madame Bénéteau-Roux who serves as the supervisory board vice president of parent company Groupe Beneteau.

In her remarks about the many positive developments in the industry, Bénéteau-Roux stated, “The marine industry has come a long way since my beginnings in 1964.” She further acknowledged the support of industry partners and as well as Beneteau competitors thanking them for their contributions toward advancing the world of pleasure cruising.

Robert C. Arzbaecher, chief executive officer of Actuant Corp., received the Good Samaritan Award honoring his courageous efforts as the skipper of the Beneteau First 40.7, known as Sociable, for the rescue he and his crew made during the Chicago to Mackinac race in 2011.

“The Best Passagemaker” in the 30 to 40-foot category was awarded to the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34. The smallest in the range, the Swift Trawler 34 recently completed the circumnavigation of the Eastern United States, a route widely known as the Great Loop, covering over 5,300 miles in less than 4 months and documenting the journey on www.TheGreatestLoop.com.

“The Best Import Motoryacht” in the 70 to 80-foot category was awarded to the Monte Carlo Yachts 70, which debuted in Italy this past summer and is set to make her North American premiere at the Yacht & Brokerage Show in Miami Beach, Florida in February 2013.
“We’re thrilled to see Groupe Beneteau honored with three awards from the AIM Marine Group editors,” commented Laurent Fabre, president of Beneteau America. “It’s of course an immense pleasure, but also the validation of over a century of hard work and commitment to excellence,” Fabre added.

About Groupe Beneteau
Groupe Beneteau is the parent company of Beneteau, CNB Yachts, Jeanneau, Lagoon, Monte Carlo Yachts and Prestige producing thousands of runabouts, cruisers, trawlers, sailboats, semi custom yachts and mega yachts annually in dozens of ranges from 16 to 150 feet. The number one mono and multi-hull sailboat builder in the world, Groupe Beneteau continues development of both its sailboat and powerboat offerings. Considered one of the leading builders of motoryachts on the European stage, the Groupe Beneteau powerboat brands are now rapidly gaining popularity in both North and South America.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

Beneteau Oceanis 45- A Lake Michigan Favorite

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 09:00:00 +0000

A great video from our colleagues at Southcoast Yachts in San Diego that shows just how easy the Oceanis 45 is to sail... single-handed!

Perhaps she has caught your eye at Montrose harbor on one of your runs on the lakefront. Maybe it was off the Dever crib as she gracefully sailed by you. Perhaps it was in Monroe harbor as she made her way in from a day sail. Regardless of where you've seen the new Oceanis 45, we are sure that she made a lasting impression on you. Her lines are easy on the eyes and under sail she has the get up and go that many find impressive for a boat her size.

Since her Lake Michigan premiere at the Strictly Sail boat show last January- the Oceanis 45 has caught on as the right boat for a majority of Lake Michigan sailors. The various places you have seen her isn't you seeing double- there are that many Beneteau owners who have fallen for her spell.

Don't take our word for it, read what the sailing press has to say about her in Cruising World's review earlier this year.

Big boat sailing was never so effortless. Isn't it time you found out first hand why the Oceanis 45 owners all have such big smiles on their faces?

Call us for more info. 773-254-0200 and any one of our sales associates can spec one out for you.

Further Reading:

Cruising World March 2012- Beneteau 41 and 45, the Chine; a syndrome- by Herb McCormick

Beneteau Oceanis 45-First Sail Boatpoint.com Australia

Beneteau America Website: Oceanis 45

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)

2012 Annapolis Boat Show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 21:18:00 +0000

October 9, 2012

The orders are still coming in from the United States Sailboat show this past weekend (October 4-8) at the City docks in Annapolis, Maryland. Beneteau America is reporting a very strong order from the annual Fall show. "It was a great team effort and the beginning of an amazing year" said Denise Hanna- Dealer Sales Director for the North American branch of the number one boat builder in the world.

The Beneteau 'docks' were buzzing with activity during the four days that the KYS team was in attendance. As of Tuesday, twenty-nine (29) orders for Beneteau sailboats had been submitted for delivery this Winter and Spring of 2013.

Beneteau displayed the following models:
-FIRST 20
-FIRST 35
-OCEANIS 34 Limited Edition
-OCEANIS 37 Limited Edition
-OCEANIS 41* (Big Seller on Lake Michigan)
-OCEANIS 45* (Another Big Seller on Lake Michigan)
-OCEANIS 48
-SENSE 46
-SENSE 55

Several Lake Michigan customers and prospective Beneteau owners made the trip out to 'naptown' to see the new models. Thank you to those that braved the nice weather for a weekend of sailing indulgence. For those that couldn't make it- There is still plenty of time to put your order in for delivery this Spring. Contact us for more information on trade-in evaluations and pricing.

For More Information Ask Karma Yacht Sales by email or call 1-877-KARMA-Y-S (527-6297)