See full version: How To Become A Yacht Broker
A bachelor’s degree is the standard to find employment in yacht brokering, although having a GED or no formal higher-level education could be sufficient depending on the situation. Ultimately, having a strong knowledge of boats and boating culture can take you far in this field, it is more than possible to become successful in yacht brokering without a college degree.
Professional yacht brokering is an appealing career for many people who have a maritime background and live close to the water. How does one go about becoming a yacht broker? What steps should you take in order to successfully become a licensed broker? Let’s look at some fundamental requirements one must consider on the pursuit to becoming a broker.
The Yacht Brokers Association of America strongly recommends that new brokers receive their CPYB (Certified Professional Yacht Broker). This certification is not mandatory for yacht brokering, but it puts potential customers in a more comfortable situation. To become eligible for certification, one must have at least three years’ in sales/yacht brokerage, history of using and maintaining legal contracts, required licenses, and proof of appropriate trust accounts. The certification process concludes with an exam that determines if one is fit to become a certified broker. here
Certifications: here
It’s important to understand the industry of boating before diving into this career path. Being familiar with different boat brands is key; you wouldn’t start selling cars with any knowledge of car brands. This will serve as a base for understanding prices, quality, performance, and manufacturing quality of individual yachts. Having this basic comprehension will pave the way for smooth sailing when dealing with experienced and amateur customers.
Only a few states actually require new yacht brokers to have a license. States that do require one will need to see evidence of a background in sales, more specifically experience under another licensed broker. Another portion of states will require an administered background check in order to continue the licensing process. Next, yacht brokers may have to take out surety bonds in order to protect their clients and themselves in case of a financial emergency. After acquiring your license, it’s important to note that state rules and regulations state that you must renew your license pending a specific amount of time.
To charter a boat The International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft, or ICC (International Certificate of Competence), is accepted as evidence of competence in most EU and Mediterranean waters. It proves that the holder has undergone formal training and has the necessary boating skills to manage a vessel in international waters.
The ICC is formally accepted in the following UNECE countries that have adopted Resolution 14 & 40:
The following UNECE member states have not accepted the Resolution 14 nor the Resolution 40:
New York laws about boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs are found in the Navigation Laws Section 49-A. These laws look very much like the New York provisions making it illegal to drive under the influence that are set out in Vehicle & Traffic Laws Section 1192. They make it illegal to operate a vessel while impaired or intoxicated, and include "per se" intoxication rules.
An offense, also called a violation, is the least serious type of crime in New York and is punishable by no more than 15 days in jail. Misdemeanors are more serious. For a misdemeanor conviction, a person can be sentenced to up to one year in jail. Felonies are the most serious crimes in New York and apply to any crime carrying a penalty of more than a year in prison.
To convict a boat operator under this provision, the prosecutor must prove impairment. They might do so by offering witnesses to the erratic boat operation, including the law enforcement officers who cited the operator. Law enforcement can also testify to the operator's performance during the sobriety tests performed.
In order to purchase an FWC Charter Captain license, you must have a Coast Guard Captain's license. Call 1-888-427-5662 for information on the Coast Guard Captain's license. USCG charter boat captain information is available on the USCG web site. here
An occupational license may be required by the city or county where you are doing business. Check with the city and county to see if you need an occupational license.
Charter Boat Licenses may only be used on the boat designated on the license and are available for vessels that are commercially registered. A commercial vessel registration or U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation (with a commercial designation) must be provided in order to purchase these licenses. more
The FWC Charter Captain and Charter Boat licenses and commercial registration can only be purchased at tax collector's office throughout Florida. For information about vessel registration visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Titles and Registrations. here
Charter, headboat and saltwater fishing guide operations must have an FWC charter captain or boat license to cover their passengers, who are not required to hold a recreational saltwater fishing license. Customers authorized to fish under the vessel license are not required to hold a recreational saltwater fishing license.