Hi Hal:
My wife & I took delivery of “Yankee Girl” (Eastern 31) yesterday at Port Milford. Fred accompanied us to our home port – Essex Dauntless Shipyard. Fred made the entire transaction easy for us – he knows his stuff. He arranged both the mechanical and general surveys (he spent 6 hours with us for that) and then another 6 hours bringing the boat to Essex and making 100% sure we knew what we were doing. Plus dealing with negotiations and all the myriad details of buying the vessel. I’m a retired EVP & CTO and executive officer of 2 successful global technology companies – I know when someone has the “right stuff” – and Fred has it all:
Friendly, knowledgeable, goes the extra mile to ensure a positive buying experience. He’s a real asset to your firm. Other yacht brokers that I’ve dealt with can’t hold a candle to Fred Brown.
Thought you’d like to know.
Regards,
Garry Johnson
Essex, Connecticut
Sean, I want you to know that we really appreciate the help and recommendations you gave us in the purchase of our Hunter 36. Like any 15-year-old boat, there were problems found on survey. You helped to bring the fixes to an equitable conclusion. We were intent on bringing the boat inland after purchase. This is where your knowledge of the marina and boatyard situation on the South Carolina coast really worked for us. Since we weren’t local, you recommended a “concierge “ that took care of all the rest. Thanks again! Johnny and Micky Poole
Dear Nicholas,
Dave and I want to take a couple of minutes to write you to thank you for your professionalism and all your hard work in representing us in selling our 1990 34′ Silverton.
We tried in the pas using a different company to sell the boat, it was up for sale 9 months and did not receive any offers.
Upon seeing the boat, you quickly figured out what the value of the boat was and quickly and confidently made your recommendations on how much to list the boat for. We took your advice and within the first week of showing the boat we received an offer and were able to lock in a price and get a contract on it. Some people might call that luck, but we know that you are the person who made that happen!!
It was also a great comfort having you handle all the appointments for various inspections along with all the paperwork needed to streamline the sale with the greatest of ease. You were always personable and always conducted yourself with a positive attitude along with Outstanding Customer Service!!
We will definitely recommend you to anyone who may be looking to buy or sell a boat. We know for a fact that they will benefit from your deep knowledge, skill, honesty, and pleasant manner.
We want to wish nothing but the best for you!! You deserve it!!
Best Regards,
Pat & Dave Semrow
I just wanted to let you know what a pleasure it has been working with Lynn. Thanks to her, we closed on our sale today for the amount we wanted. It wasn’t the easiest sale… due in part (at least) to me! Lynn is a pro and a great person. Thank you for putting me in good hands. You are lucky to have her on the team. If you are ever in the BVI, look me up!
Alexander Hall helped us purchase our sailboat. Alex went above and beyond to make sure we were satisfied and all parts of the transaction went smooth. He really cares about making sure customers are happy and shared a wealth of knowledge with us. Alex came out on his day off to help us install our sails and check up on us to see we were ok when we had lost our coolant pump before our journey up the NEW England coast. We will certainly recommend anyone looking to buy or sell a boat to see him. Very professional, friendly, knowledgeable, salesman. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you – SV Salvador,
formerly “Puffin
Good evening Alex, I just want to say a very sincere thank you to you for all of your kind assistance throughout this process. I would heartily recommend you to anyone looking for a broker, and I would retain your services again without hesitation; but, hopefully not for at least a few years!!! On the other hand, you might want to run away from me! Hope not. You are a gentleman of the first order and I sincerely appreciate all that you have done.
Appreciatively, Bob
Sincere thanks David,
Often, as you know, boat owners claim the brokerage fee of 10% is outrageous. David, you earned every penny. Will recommend you in a heartbeat!
January 18, 2021 Sean Kelly Brewer Yacht Sales Good morning Sean, I just wanted to take a moment to tell you how much I appreciated working with you while in the process of purchasing my schooner. You were always available to answer my questions and on those rare occasions when you didn’t know the answer, you told me so and then found the answer to my question. You never tried to “sell” me a boat. You focused solely on making sure I was fully informed about every aspect of the boat I was interested in in order to make sure that I was purchasing a boat that was exactly what I was looking for. You made sure that the boat I bought was the right boat for ME and I really appreciate that. Furthermore, you connected me to all of the right resources, including someone to handle all of the legal paperwork, someone to do minor repairs and a company to upgrade some of the electronics. You helped make “becoming a boat owner” a very smooth process. Thank you very much for your knowledge and absolute professionalism, courtesy and integrity. Sincerely, Mark Dr. Mark Baxter
Dear Brewer Yacht Sales / Jackie Joslyn, I just wanted to let you know about the terrific customer experience I just had with your Portsmouth RI office broker, Alexander Hall. The start of my boat purchase experience back in Sep 2016 was kind of frustrating, because despite assurances from the broker who handled the transaction (since retired) the seller never followed through on the assurance that repairs would be made to address water in engine compartment. I’ll spare you the details but the situation dragged on and I finally brought the issue up with Alex Hall who seemed to have taken the place of the original broker who had since retired. Alex went ahead and made inquiries with both the original broker and with the Brewer Sakonnet Yard that had replaced the impeller and concluded that the matter was resolved. He then did a very tactful job of delivering the first broker’s response, which was that too much time had elapsed for them to do address the issue. This was obviously very frustrating news for me. There were a number of different issues that came up in the survey and the water issue was the only thing I’d asked to have remedied as a provision before finalizing the transaction. I was actually considering legal action, but Alex delivered the other broker’s response to me with a measure of genuine concern for my fair treatment and asked a number of questions about the boat which helped diffuse the situation a bit. After learning that the boat was there on premises, he then offered to come and take a look at it. Alex ended up visiting the boat on three separate occasions and was a great source of help and information on a number of different subjects. He not only gave me ideas for identifying and then remedying the leak, he also answered questions about charging of batteries, operation of the head and other issues with the GPS system. I ended up fixing the leak myself, but the help that Alex gave on these different subjects went a long way to making me feel better about the transaction handled by another colleague. We’re about to leave Brewer Sakonnet and head back to MA, so I stopped by to see Alex yesterday, to offer my thanks and let him know that I wanted to write you folks at the headquarters office. Most people don’t take the time to listen and try to help you out but that’s precisely the way to build trust, strengthen customer relationships and build your business. Alex knows that and he managed to turn the situation around entirely. I just wanted to let you know of my experience. I’d be very happy to do business with Alex – or with Brewer Yacht Sales – and would recommend his/your services to anyone looking to buy or sell a boat. Thanks for listening. Best Regards, Sam Ward
Thank you, Brewer Yacht Sales! We spent one and one-half very pleasant years at Safe Harbor Yacht Haven while trying to sell out 42′ Grand Banks, Forever.
We cannot say enough about how well we were treated by your staff at the dock. Our thanks to Todd Breden as well as Eric, Rayon, and Jeff.
Our special thanks to Randy Altemus for finding the buyer for us. He did a very professional job on our behalf. It took a long time and he never stopped working for us.
Dear Fred, Both Carrie and I wanted to express our sincere thanks for all your help in making the total process of purchasing a boat, a very good experience. We both realize that any closing could be painful, however with your help the total experience was quite pleasant. During the process starting from the first day we met you at the office in Westbrook until the day of closing, everything progressed very well with your help. Also throughout the process we’ve actually gained a new friend, who which we would have no hesitation recommending to others interested in buying or selling a boat. We thank you again and hope that we can remain in touch. Sincerely, Greg and Carrie Wind
Nick-
Such a pleasure working with you on this sale! Thanks for all of your help. We really appreciate all you did for us. Please accept the “tip” and the “sip” of rum on us! We will definitely work with you in the future when/if we’re in the market for boat.
All the best,
Sue & Ed
I would like to commend Alex Hall, the Brewer Yacht Broker in Portsmouth, RI who recently facilitated the sale of my Tartan 34 sailboat. This was the second boat that Alex brokered for me, and in both cases the sale was handled efficiently and professionally. However this latest transaction required a level of patience, professional / legal knowledge and people-skills that made me really appreciate the contribution that a good yacht broker can make. Alex persisted in guiding a challenging, novice buyer through the whole process of arranging for a survey and insurance, all while answering the buyer’s many questions and executing the required legal documentation. When the sale was finally complete, Alex left both the seller (me) and the new boat owner pleased with the deal! Needless to say, I would still own that boat without his extended efforts, so thank you Alex! David Sharp Newport, RI
We had an amazing experience with this guys. Highly recommend Nicholas Rago as a sales man. Nicholas went out of his way multiple times to make the delivery ahead of time on our tight schedule. And to top it off, he also came to help me load the boat on the trailer even when I knew that he was on a super busy day. We were not buying an expensive boat but we were treated to the highest of the standards. Thanks a lot Nicholas
I wanted to recognize Lynn Oliver after having an exceptional experience with her while purchasing my boat. Lynn was very attentive, personable & on top of everything from the initial showing of the boat to the signing of papers. I have seen in this day & age that it is very difficult to come across employees who are professional, prompt & knowledgeable in their current positions but Lynn is one of them.
Gentlemen: I would like to express my gratitude to Mr. Hal Slater of Brewer Yacht Sales for his professional approach in the purchase of the 1978 53′ Custom Durbeck Cutter. Hal was a key component in making the purchase of the Durbeck sailboat a reality for me. Hal’s honest and straightforward approach was an essential factor in negotiations. Hal’s experience, integrity and attention to detail during the entire sales process were integral to keep both the seller and the buyer on the right path right up until the boat’s closing. During the sales process, I had a surveyor perform a pre-purchase condition survey, and the surveyor found some issues that required attention. Hal was able to keep the negotiations moving to a successful conclusion. Hal was instrumental in safeguarding and protecting my interests, for which I am very grateful. Hal even went the extra mile after the sale to personally deliver additional items from the previous owner. I would highly recommend Hal to anyone interested in selling or purchasing a boat.
My wife and I recently purchased a 2007 Sea Ray 36 sedan Bridge from Sean Kelly. I called Sean on the phone and he gave us an account of the boat’s condition and repairs that the owner was going to make prior to selling. We knew we were talking to an honest person and made an offer over the phone, with only seeing the boat on Boat Trader. The offer was accepted and Sean set up a survey as we live in Florida and the boat was located in Charleston SC. Also, Sean, as promised, did a Facetime walk-thru of the boat and it was better than we thought, sea trial, the survey went very well and we left for Florida without any problems. I would highly recommend Sean, he conducts business like we were lifetime friends, I would highly recommend Sean. Billy and Julie Samples Satsuma, Fl.
I chose Brewer Yacht Sales because Michelle, our dock master, had high praise for Sean Kelly of Brewer Yacht Sales and his ability to connect buyers and sellers. Everything she said was true. Sean is great to work with, gave me excellent advice, and got my boat sold quickly at a very good price
David Foland, Port Royal, SC
I want to thank Chris Uscinski for the seamless sale of my boat. He went above and beyond to make the transaction a great experience for me and the buyer. I would HIGHLY recommend Chris to anyone wanting to sell their boat. His positive, can do attitude, got the job done. A true professional. One of the best things about dealing with Chris is that he is always accessible. Returns calls, emails and text messages right away and follows up to make sure all the details are covered. Thanks again Chris!!
Hi Laird,
Thanks for your note and update. I have real mixed emotions regarding the selling of Atalanta as she has meant a great deal to us over the years. On the other hand she was a means to an end and as such she gave us many of the greatest experiences of our lives. There just comes a time when the fit is no longer right and it’s time to move on. With that said, you help in moving on has been greatly appreciated. You’re working with us thought the trials of this sale has been greatly appreciated. I know it hasn’t always gone smoothly but Kay nor I have ever felt your handling of the situations was anything less than professional and well done. We have truly appreciated working with you and will continue to as we search for whats next. We are grateful that you are both our broker and friend. Thank you
Richard and Kay
Ned
I really appreciate your efforts over the last several months. You were an excellent broker and adviser during the marketing and sale process. Your communication skills are great and you always kept me well informed.
If I can ever serve as a reference for other customers please let me know. I will also keep you and Brewers in mind when I start to hunt for my next boat.
Best regards
Paul
Dear Hal,
Jackie and I wanted to say “Thank You” for you and your team’s service over the last six months. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of Brewer Yacht Sales is- Above and Beyond! When you sold my Sea Ray 340, both you and Ned went out of your way to process all the State and USCG paperwork, which was of real value to us! You and your team made sure I was up-to-date on the sale throughout the entire process. When I walked from the vessel in NJ due to major moisture/delamination issues-you reached out to your broker Nicholas and confirmed you had a nicer boat lined up for me to look at before we got back to the dock in NJ!!! This was a real demonstration of another real value your team brings- market knowledge. Jackie and I were able to view this yacht before it went on the market- which is important in this fast-paced seller’s market. As you know, we ended up buying it and look forward to many years of trips and fishing expeditions both in New England and South Florida. Again- great job by the Brewer Yacht Sales Team!
Good evening Laird, Thank you so much for all of your help in achieving a lifelong dream that I was beginning to think would ever be realized. I know that without you we wouldn’t be so happy being the proud new owners of our wonderful Amel. You came through with just what we wanted when no other broker could. Always grateful, Karl
Hi Russ. This is Amanda Bush. You sold us a Beneteau last year. We promised we would send pics of the family enjoying the boat here in FL. I know this is long awaited, sorry for the delay! We love the boat. It’s forged many memories for us 🥰 Thanks again and Happy Holidays.
Mark was fantastic to work with. Mark was patient, helpful, responsive, resourceful and above all, genuine. He was patient with all my questions. Mark educated us about a “new to us” class of boats, the buying process and so many little details along the way. He made himself available without reserve despite our not being his most lucrative clients. Mark wanted to and was at survey. Mark followed our trip home (Long Island, NY to Boston). He even called a few weeks post transaction to confirm all was well. Mark demonstrated to me why when I spoke with others in the local boating community they knew and respected him. While I hope not to buy a boat again too soon, Mark Weston will be my first all when that time comes
Hi Gene, Thank you for your advice and support during the purchase of the Jo Jo Dancer. She is in Lake George now and we will get her in the spring. I really appreciate the fact that you are such a trust worthy guy, I never would have made that purchase without your guidance. The whole C19 thing has been something for sure and I am grateful that my kids will be able to ride it out on a boat and not on their phones. Best wishes and health to you and yours. Warm regards, Stephanie Hodgeman, MA
Hal, I rarely write this kind of letter but in today’s world when somebody just does their job I am impressed. When someone goes way beyond that I am blown away. I just sold my 40’ sport fisher “Joint Custody” through your company and specifically through Lynn Oliver. Lynn guided me professionally through the process also taking so very much of the coordination off my hands. She worked with the buyer steering them toward reasonable goals. She worked with numerous members of the Marina staff to get the buyers “Punch List” done on a timely basis and this took a tremendous amount of follow-up. She kept me and the buyer advised of the exact status as things moved forward. She was always available and nothing was too much trouble for Lynn. So, you have a treasure there and it was truly my pleasure working with her.
I have to leave a testimonial here for Nicholas. I rarely leave testimonials but Nicholas’ professionalism, kindness, hard work, and time should not go without mention. Nicholas was on top of this from the get-go and kept me aware of exactly what was happening. He went over and above my expectations. The whole issue was painless and the fees were so worth it. Nicholas is a good man and worked just as hard for the sale of my pontoon as he would have for a high-priced boat. I would hire Nicolas all over again – without question!
Hi everyone, my name is Gary prince and I reside in Aurora Ontario Canada. I was looking to purchase a boat which I found at Brewer yacht sales. I got in touch with Nicholas Rago, this guy was professional from start to finish and made sure that everything ran smoothly from sending us whatever information I needed and for doing FaceTime videos on the boat. Due to COVID-19 I couldn’t go to Connecticut to look at the boat but Nicholas Took care of everything for us. He arranged for a survey on the boat for us, they found a small issue with the boat which could’ve been swept under the mat but Nicolas made sure everything was resolved. I would highly recommend working with Nicholas and the Marina. Thanks again Nicholas for all your help!
I couldn’t let a day go by without mentioning my recent interaction with Nicholas Rago. I started bugging him last month about a boat he was selling and he was always quick to reply. I loved the boat pictures I saw online but didn’t feel quite comfortable driving 4 hours to see a boat that I just may not like in person. I had the usual concerns….Is the boat really that clean? When were those photos taken? Do I really want to drive 4 hours to be disappointed? We all have those concerns especially now that we should be “staying home”. Nicholas suggested he do a virtual tour over Facetime. He did a great job and filmed every detail of the boat while explaining what I was looking at. My big concern was that the boat may FEEL too small for me since I am a bit claustrophobic. He went so far as to lay down on the different areas of the boat to give me a visual. It was a crazy idea and I appreciated it soooo much. I finally drove up today (8 hrs round trip) and was quite surprised that there were no surprises!!!! His virtual tour was spot on and I now realize what a wonderful idea it was. I have one or two more boats to look at but this one is at the top of my list. Nicholas is such a nice person, one of those people you feel like you have known forever. I know my husband and I will be well taken care of, if we decide to put a bid on this boat. Thanks for all your help, Nicholas. Stay safe and healthy!
Sean, You know what they say, the two best days of a boat owners life. Well thanks for making the second best day go so smoothly. We got our asking price after only a few weeks being on the market and your liaisonship between the buyer and myself made the whole experience enjoyable for all of us. Roberta and I wish you the best, Thanks
Good afternoon, Hal ~~~ Just a brief note to tell you how much I appreciated the expertise, resourcefulness and invaluable assistance provided by John Uljens in enabling me to acquire “Island Girl” and get back on the water again. John was especially helpful and impressive in devising solutions to some of the obstacles and constraints involved in this transaction, and his patience, inventiveness and overall professionalism were very much valued by me, the buyer, and I’m sure by the seller as well.
This was my second boat acquired under the aegis of your organization, and just like the first, it was, thanks to John, a pleasure doing business with BYS.