NOJO Spotlight: Senior Charter Broker Ann Landry

This week we are spotlighting Senior Charter Broker Ann Landry, who has made a name for herself over her 18-year plus career as a charter broker. In January 2010, Ann was presented with the prestigious “Charter Broker of the Year” award by the Florida Yacht Broker’s Association, now known as the International Yacht Broker’s Association (IYBA). Having experienced charter as a crewmember and as a broker, Ann has a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to deliver her clients the vacations of their dreams.

How did you get into the yachting industry and what led you to where you are today?

I booked a ten-day dive/sail vacation from Saint Maarten to St. Thomas, decided “I can do that too”, bought a boat in San Diego, sailed to the Caribbean, and ran charters for several years. My sailing and navigation experience and my knowledge of and enthusiasm for the charter experience have served me well.

What do you think makes N&J special?

The talent that I am surrounded by on a daily basis, the most amazing workforce I have ever been a part of.

What do you like most about your job?

Everything – the people, the boats, the travel. In yachting, we meet the most interesting people from every country/continent – the brightest ones with a sense of adventure who are willing to do whatever it takes to get it done.

What accomplishment at N&J makes you most proud?

I invited a very talented individual to partner with me three years ago (I am very good at spotting talent.) The collaboration has changed my practice in significant and positive ways.

What is your favorite cruising destination and why?

From East to West and back to East: Greece, Croatia, South of France, Italy, Spain, The Bahamas, New England, Caribbean, Alaska, Galapagos, Society Islands, New Zealand, Australia, and Thailand – each special in its own unique way. My current top interest is for the cold climate destinations: Baltic Sea, Norway, Greenland and Antarctica – I was fortunate enough to spend a week aboard a large motor yacht in Antarctica and that can only be described as a life-changing event.

If you had a yacht what type of yacht would you have?

I had a yacht I would want a 98-foot to 147-foot (30-45m) sailing yacht that would be suitable for circumnavigation. The sailing yacht would need to be safe, have beautiful lines, smart sailing and comfortable.

If you had a yacht where would you spend the most time aboard?

Everywhere.

What’s your favorite activity you enjoy with friends/family?

I love to travel to new and interesting venues. I also enjoy boating, exploration, visiting art galleries and museums, movies, theatre, concerts, hiking and tennis.

What is one fun/unique fact about yourself?

As a biochemist (by education and early experience), I worked at NASA performing biochem assays for the astronaut team.

What is one tip for first-time clients?

Find a broker you can trust and believe that broker when he/she says. “It’s about the crew. Of course, the boat has to be well-maintained, safe, fresh, attractive interior furnishings, etc – that’s a given. Trust me when I say this crew will show you the best vacation you have ever had.”

Any additional information you would like to share?

I love my job.