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Jonathan Beckett, Managing Partner, Chief Executive
The Burgess story
Burgess started with one man’s dream. Back in 1975, Nigel Burgess – renowned sailor and worldwide single-handed ocean racer – founded his brokerage house with the intent to do more than simply sell yachts. He wanted to do it in a way that adhered to a protocol of integrity, fastidiousness, discretion and, above all, client care, that had not been seen before. A full fifty years later, no one has yet seen anything quite like Burgess, the institution he dared to create.
The company builds on Nigel Burgess’ bold vision to push boundaries in all sectors of the yachting industry. And under the watchful eye of Burgess’s successor, the inimitable Jonathan 'Joff' Beckett, the brokerage house has grown into a true standard-bearer in the maritime world.
Building the dream: our story so far
Step inside the world of yacht sales with Robert Vermilye, New York Sales Broker. From his early career in accounting to finding his true calling in yachting, Rob shares how he made the leap, what a day in the life of a broker really looks like, and how he helps clients find the perfect yacht. He also reveals the key differences between buyers and sellers, the teamwork that drives Burgess, and his most memorable sales so far.
The people behind the legacy
Bella Walton
Step inside the world of superyacht charter with Charter Fleet Manager Bella Walton. Discover how she broke into the industry, what it really takes to manage a charter yacht, and why Burgess’ all-in-one approach makes all the difference.
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Richard Lambert
Hear from Senior Partner and Managing Director of Semi-Custom Yachting Richard Lambert as he shares his take on mentorship, the evolution of superyachts, and what makes Burgess such an incredible team.
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Katie Schneidman
New York Charter Broker Katie Schneidman shares her perspective on the rising demand for more adventurous charter experiences, recommendations for lesser-known Caribbean islands, and her top three yachts to charter this season.
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Peter Brown
Having joined Burgess two decades ago, Senior Partner and Sales Broker Peter Brown reflects on his journey – from spearheading the growth of the US operation and what the future has in store for New Build Sales to his most memorable moments at the company.
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Justin Pierce
From life at sea to closing deals on land, Sales Broker Justin Pierce shares his journey from working on yachts to joining Burgess, and what it’s really like working behind the scenes at one of the world’s leading yacht companies.
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Catherine Wilson
Charter Broker Catherine Wilson takes you behind the scenes of the world of yacht charters – why they’re so special, what goes into crafting these unforgettable experiences, and her top picks for must-visit destinations in 2025.
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Rory Boyle
Hear from Rory Boyle, Partner and Head of New Build Sales, as he discusses the fascinating evolution of superyachts and the changes that have shaped the yachting industry to date.
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Jonathan Beckett
Burgess' managing partner and chief executive discusses Burgess' evolution and what's next.
Watch videoMilestones and moments
Join us as we celebrate 50 years of expertise, passion, and unparalleled service on the water.
Our 50 most breathtaking yacht images
Explore our some of our most memorable yacht shoots as we celebrate 50 years with 50 stunning yacht images.
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Top five charter hotspots
From the timeless elegance of the Mediterranean to the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean, these destinations showcase why clients have trusted Burgess for half a century to deliver exceptional yacht experiences.
Where will you go?
Five yachts that defined an era
From the first yacht we ever sold to vessels featured on critically acclaimed TV shows and groundbreaking innovations, these yachts represent the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship.
Dive in
50 years of watertoys
We explore the evolution of watertoys over the past 50 years, from simple collections of trusty toys to the expansive, high-tech world they are today.
Explore the history
Our top five significant sailing yachts
From revolutionary innovations to unforgettable global voyages, here are the yachts that have left an indelible mark on our history and continue to inspire the sailing world.
Set sail
Our top 10 charter yachts
From the most booked yachts in our fleet to standout performers in Asia, the Mediterranean and beyond, these are the boats that deliver time and time again.
See the top 10
Our top five brokerage deals
Each sale reflects a legacy of strategic insight, trusted relationships, and bold ambition, laying the foundation for what comes next.
Meet the five
The first yacht sold: MARQUES
The sale of the historic barque MARQUES by Nigel Burgess in 1975 marked the beginning of Burgess’ journey to becoming a global yachting leader. Discover the remarkable story behind this legendary vessel.
Set sail
The evolution of superyacht design
Discover how yacht design has evolved, with cutting-edge technology and visionary spaces redefining life on the water.
Explore the journey
10 of the largest yachts sold
From record-breaking designs to groundbreaking innovations, these yachts represent the pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship.
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Celebrating our milestones
We take a look back at the last 50 years, celebrating the milestones that made Burgess the go-to yachting specialist that it is today.
Here's to 50 years
