Deb and Rick Miles are a husband-and-wife team who have decided to bring their skills, experience, and enthusiasm to the Brewer Yacht Sales team. Captain Rick’s love of boating began in his childhood. His life on the sea started by racing turnabouts in Boston Harbor for Cottage Park Yacht Club in Winthrop and later, throughout high school, college, and most of his twenties, he worked his way up from deckhand to captain for Sea Star Fisheries, a local offshore lobstering company based out of Marblehead. Miles attended Norwich University and after leaving the lobstering industry in 1987, started the company, Ariel Cruises, which saw him as owner and operator of a 60-foot Morgan schooner for charter throughout New England and the Caribbean. Since that time, Rick established several successful schooner and expedition cruise businesses, specializing in cruising the coast of Maine and taking passengers into remote expeditions with destinations to the Arctic, Sable Island, Newfoundland, Labrador, Baffin Island, Greenland, and Trans-Atlantic. Rick has voyaged over 125,000 nautical miles aboard sail and power vessels.
Since 2013 Captain Miles has held the position of Boston’s Port Captain for City Experiences by Hornblower (previously Boston Harbor Cruises, LLC). Miles assisted in overseeing the operation of all fleet vessels and services involved in running the passenger vessel business with over 50 vessels and up to 300 departures per day for annual ridership of over 2.5 million passengers. Rick has been the company’s United States Coast Guard liaison and has attended over 150 USCG vessel COI and Hull Inspections as owner’s representative. He presently lives in Concord MA, has completed the Blackburn Challenge six times, (a 23-mile open-ocean solo row in a 450 lb. traditional Grand Banks fishing dory). Rick is proud to hold a US Coast Guard Masters License, 6th renewal, up to 200 GRT, Near Coastal with endorsements and valid TWIC card. Rick has extensive experience in steel, fiberglass, and wooden vessels and their systems, both sail, and power.
Deb Read Miles loves adventure and has lived and traveled extensively throughout the world, starting in 4th grade when her family moved from Wellesley, MA to London, England. Her love of boats and the ocean developed from summers spent boating and swimming off Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport ME. Deb earned a Master of Fine Arts Degree from
Lesley University and is a practicing artist. She has a long entrepreneurial background including work as a principal at the Boston-area interior design firm Decors by Bailey and Read, serving as Director of New Business Development for the design group at Hill Holliday Advertising, and was the Vice President and co-creator of the heavy equipment rental company, BKE Construction in Mohammedia, Morocco. Her love of boats and a new adventure has led her to a new goal; to give outstanding service to her clients at Brewer Yacht Sales and to, one day, sail around the world with her husband Rick on their 64-foot Sundeer Ketch, Artemis. Deb and Rick recently completed a 1500-nautical mile delivery of Artemis, from Fort Lauderdale to Salem, MA, and plan to charter the vessel. Deb is working toward getting her captain's license and advocates for empowering women to learn and take the lead in boating endeavors. Deb’s appreciation of different world cultures, love of people, deep understanding of current design trends, and effective marketing strategies are assets she is eager to offer her clients. However, the biggest benefits Rick and Deb offer are their team approach, a lifetime of knowledge and experience, dedication to honesty, integrity, and the belief in kindness in all matters.
I’m originally from Michigan from a town an hour north of Detroit near Lake St. Clair. I’ve been around water all of my life; starting with my parents owning boats and going out every moment to fish, ski, tube and visit with friends to eventually, myself owning boats.
I met this beautiful woman in 1987 who enjoyed boating more than I did. She grew up spending every weekend on Lake St. Clair boating with her family. We married in 1990 and have 2 wonderful children – now adults living out their dreams.
Life brought us to Boston in 2018 and we are now enjoying living in Marina Bay, Quincy. I enjoy walking along the boardwalk and marina; socializing with everyone. It’s a wonderful atmosphere. I have my 100-ton Captain’s License and was hired in 2018 by Boston Harbor Cruises; starting with driving the water taxis and moving up to running the fast ferries from Hingham/Hull to Boston/Logan Airport for commuters and guests. Today we are proudly owned by Hornblower Cruises and Events, LLC with our new name as Boston Harbor City Cruises.
Now I’m starting another chapter in my life adventure – selling boats – combining my love for boats and people. If you are interested in buying or selling a boat, I would be happy to work with you to achieve that goal for you. Looking forward to working with you to make your dreams come true!
Liam MacVittie: Your Partner for the Perfect Vessel
As the newest member of the Brewer Yacht Sales family, Liam MacVittie brings a unique, hands-on understanding of what it takes to own and operate a vessel. For years, he was on the water every day, managing all aspects of his commercial vessel business, Quack n' Cruise Land and Sea Tours. This immersive experience—from assessing and surveying boats to the daily operation of commercial vessels—has given him a profound appreciation for what makes a boat truly seaworthy and the perfect fit for its owner.
From Operator to Broker
Liam's background is not typical for a yacht broker, and that's what makes him an invaluable resource for his clients. He understands vessels from the inside out, having personally navigated the real-world challenges and triumphs of boat ownership. He doesn't just sell boats; he shares his practical knowledge and passion to help you find a vessel that perfectly matches your aspirations.
Expertise that Makes a Difference
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned mariner, Liam's experience ensures you receive knowledgeable and honest guidance. His background includes:
Operational Insight: Liam has a deep, practical understanding of vessel mechanics, handling, and maintenance from his time operating commercial tours.
Hands-On Assessment: He has a trained eye for surveying and evaluating a boat's condition, giving you confidence in your investment.
Personalized Matchmaking: He knows that the right vessel is about more than just specs. He works closely with you to understand your specific needs, whether for family cruising, fishing, or adventure, and finds a boat that delivers the right experience.
A Passion for Your Next Adventure
Liam is excited to be part of the trusted Brewer Yacht Sales team, which is known for its professionalism and ethical standards. He is committed to providing a seamless, transparent experience and building relationships that last long after the sale is complete.
If you're ready to find the perfect vessel for your next journey, contact Liam MacVittie. His hands-on experience and genuine enthusiasm for all things marine make him the ideal partner to help you navigate the boat-buying process and set sail on your next great adventure.