sunshine cruising yachts st augustine

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Love Boats? Then This Is One “Boat Girl” You Will Want To Know

Meet Melanie Neale of Sunshine Cruising Yachts, she grew up on boats and has lived the boating lifestyle for most of her life. It’s no surprise she found her true passion in helping people fulfill their own boating dreams.

You’ve been on boats your whole life, tell me how it was growing up as a live-aboard?

I was basically brought to the boat as a baby straight from the hospital. My parents commissioned a 47 Gulfstar SailMaster in 1979, the year I was born, as the boat they’d raise their family on. I spent seventeen years sharing the v-berth with my sister. We were based out of the Chesapeake most of the time, but went to the Bahamas in the winter and up and down the East coast in the summers. We were homeschooled from kindergarten through high school. I moved off the boat at nineteen years old and the first time I stepped into a classroom was my first day of college.

Did you find it difficult to move off the boat and enter the “Real World” in a sense?

No, I didn’t. I was exposed to so much growing up through our travels. I learned to relate to people from different countries and cultures, so I didn’t find it difficult at all.

Was there ever a time that you didn’t live on boats?

Yes, I did live on land during a time in my life when it felt right. I wanted to do the normal thing, have a house, picket fence, 2.5 kids. I had a corporate job for about 10 years, I had a daughter, and a nice husband, but we divorced in 2014 and I was laid off in 2015. I found myself a single mom, unemployed with a child and a lot of useless knowledge about boats. That’s when I decided to get my yacht broker’s license and start selling boats under a local brokerage.

When did you decide to go out on your own and start Sunshine Cruising Yachts?

To own a yacht brokerage in the state of Florida, you have to have a brick and mortar office. In walks Dennis…We had just started dating, and it just so happened he had an office on the Palm Coast where his team worked in Real Estate. Since we had just met it was hard for me to open up, trust him, and allow him to help me, but he has a huge talent in marketing and video production, and has become a big asset to my company, so we are in the process of getting him licensed now.

How is the business going so far?

I know a lot of people in the business and I’m trying to partner with people strategically where there are a lot of boats and with people that know the industry.

As chaotic as it’s been—and there will be growing pains when you start any business—I’ve never felt that I made the wrong decision. I’m pinching myself almost every day because I get to go sailing for work.

What makes Sunshine Cruising Yachts different from other brokerages?

Having grown up on a boat, I can give people a true look into the boating lifestyle. I want to educate people on boats. I want to go beyond listing and selling. I want to form everlasting relationships and be the “Boat Girl” people call when they need help.

What are your plans for the business?

I want to create a legacy in this industry and to empower women in the marine industry. This industry is less than 10% women, I’ve always done a lot to get women involved in the industry, I started the Facebook group “Women Working in the Marine Industry,” I want to continue to inspire women with my business. Including my daughter, she sees me work, she knows what I do. She is growing up on a boat and I want to set an example for her to show her she can do whatever she wants in the future.

What is Sunshine Cruising Yachts mission?

Selling a dream and a lifestyle that I believe in 100%. I feel really lucky to be able to do that.

Do you ever plan to cruise?

The dream is for this company to be up and running and successful so in ten years (or less) I can go cruising and work from anywhere.

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Company Information

Sunshine Cruising Yachts

Sunshine Cruising Yachts is a boutique yacht brokerage based in Florida specializing in quality oceangoing sailing and power yachts.

Contact: Melanie Neale email: [email protected]

Web Site: http://www.sunshinecruisingyachtslistings.com

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Join Melanie Sunshine and 9.1+ million other Small Business Owners

Sunshine Cruising Yachts

We are based in Florida, but work with clients all over the world. The ocean is our limit! Whether you are a young family setting out with a dream to sail around the world, a retired couple who would like to cruise the Great Loop on a trawler, someone who just wants to learn about the boating lifestyle, a seasoned and salty sailor, or a weekend warrior, we have you covered.

Who we want to be referred to

We love working with other yacht brokers, captains, mechanics, boat detailers, marinas, finance and insurance companies, and everyone else in the marine industry. We are a woman-owned business and work to build community within the industry.

Sunshine Cruising Yachts strives to educate and empower buyers and sellers of fine seagoing sailing and power vessels, combining integrity and passion to give our clients a memorable and positive experience. We are based in Florida, but work with clients all over the world. The ocean is our limit!

Whether you are a young family setting out with a dream to sail around the world, a retired couple who would like to cruise the Great Loop on a trawler, someone who just wants to learn about the boating lifestyle, a seasoned and salty sailor, or a weekend warrior, we have you covered.

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Our Recognition

Highly Recommended

• Featured Vessels
• Yachts for Sale
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• Sunshine Cruising Cats

Boats for Sale

• Model 140 HP
• Engine Qty 1
• Cabin Count 0
• Sleep Count 0
• Head Count 0
• Cabins 0 Sleeps 0 Heads 0
• 1 Detroit Diesel 140 HP

• Model Lugger 6
• Cabin Count 3
• Sleep Count 8
• Head Count 2
• Motorsailers
• Cabins 3 Sleeps 8 Heads 2
• 1 Lugger Lugger 6

• Model 6CTA8.3-M3
• Engine Qty 2
• Sleep Count 7
• Motor Yachts/Cruisers
• Cabins 3 Sleeps 7 Heads 2
• 2 CUMMINS 6CTA8.3-M3

47' Howdy Bailey Marine

• Model 4JH57
• Cabin Count 2
• Sleep Count 5
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 5 Heads 2
• 1 Yanmar 4JH57

47' Caliber

• Model 75 Turbo
• Center Cockpit/Cruisers
• Make an Offer!
• 1 Yanmar 75 Turbo

46' Bristol

• Model 4JH80
• Sleep Count 6
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 6 Heads 0
• 1 Yanmar 4JH80

46' Island Trader

• Cabins 2 Sleeps 0 Heads 2
• 1 Ford Leman
• Whiskey River

45' Hatteras

• Head Count 1
• Sport Fishing
• Cabins 3 Sleeps 6 Heads 1
• 2 Detroit 871D

• Model 3YM30
• Cabin Count 4
• Head Count 3
• Cabins 4 Sleeps 8 Heads 3
• 2 Yanmar 3YM30
• IMPROBABILITY

44' St. Francis

• Model 3JH3CE
• Cabins 4 Sleeps 0 Heads 3
• 2 Yanmar 3JH3CE

44' Marine Trader

• Cabins 2 Sleeps 6 Heads 2
• Priced To Sell

43' Oceanic

• 1 Perkins 436
• Sun Duchess

43' Beneteau

• Cruisers/Other
• BOW MOVEMENT

42' Pearson

• Model 4JHE2MTE
• Sleep Count 4
• Cruisers/Sloop
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 4 Heads 0
• 13K PRICE REDUCTION!!
• 1 Yanmar 4JHE2MTE

• Model 3QM30
• Cruisers/Cutter
• 1 Yanmar 3QM30
• Abracadabra

42' Whitby Yachts

• Model 2712E
• 1 Ford Lehman 2712E
• Mary Belinda

42' Grand Banks

• Cabins 0 Sleeps 6 Heads 0
• 1 Twin Lehman
• Indigo Falcon

41' Hatteras

• Antique and Classics
• Lady Barbara

41' Concordia

• Model 4JH4AE
• Cabin Count 1
• Cabins 1 Sleeps 4 Heads 1
• 1 Yanmar 4JH4AE

41' Beneteau

• Model 4JH2E
• 1 Yanmar 4JH2E
• OCEAN DANCER

40' Hatteras

• Model GM 454
• Trawlers/Cruisers
• Cabins 3 Sleeps 5 Heads 2
• 2 Crusader GM 454
• EVELYN ROSE

40' Wirth Munroe

• Antique and Classics/Cruiser-Racer
• Cabins 1 Sleeps 6 Heads 0
• 5K Price Drop!!

40' Marine Trader

• Model 2725E
• Priced to Sell!
• 1 Ford Lehman 2725E
• Gardner McKay

39' Leopard

• Cabins 3 Sleeps 0 Heads 2

• Model 2040-C BT
• Priced to sell!
• 1 Volvo 2040-C BT

• Model 3GM30F
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 0 Heads 1
• 1 Yanmar 3GM30F

• Model 3HM35F
• 1 Yanmar 3HM35F

• Model 3JH2E
• 1 Yanmar 3JH2E

• Center Cockpit
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 0 Heads 0
• 1 Yanmar 3HMF

36' Jeanneau

• Cabins 3 Sleeps 0 Heads 1
• 1 Yanmar 3YM30

• Ketch/Cruisers
• 2 Yanmar 3HM35F

34' Mainship

• Model 6LPA-STP
• 1 yanmar 6LPA-STP

• Cruiser-Racer
• Cabins 2 Sleeps 4 Heads 1
• 1 Westerbeke 27hP

33' Nauticat

• Cruisers/Motorsailers
• $8,100 PRICE REDUCTION!!
• 1 Ford Lehman SP90

• Model 4 Stroke 90 HP
• Sleep Count 3
• Cabins 1 Sleeps 3 Heads 1
• 1 Yamaha 4 Stroke 90 HP

32' Bayfield

• Cabins 1 Sleeps 0 Heads 1
• Thousand Island

32' Westsail

• Cabins 0 Sleeps 0 Heads 1

• 1 Yanmar 3GMD

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St. Thomas & St Augustine Sailing Charters

Welcome aboard summerwind: a stunning jeanneau, ds 50-foot sailing yacht, among the largest private sailing vessels available for charter in st. thomas & st. augustine..

Sit back and relax as our expert crew handles every detail, ensuring your journey is smooth and enjoyable. Or, if you’re interested in learning the ropes, we’re delighted to provide instruction on helming, tacking, and gybing as we navigate the Atlantic. By the end of your adventure, you and your guests will have gained a comprehensive understanding of ocean and inland sailing.

Features and Amenities:

• 75-hp Yanmar Turbo Diesel Engine : Powering your voyage with reliability and efficiency.
• Spacious Accommodations : Enjoy the comfort of three staterooms, including a well-designed owner’s stateroom and two VIP staterooms. Private showers and electric flush bathroom facilities ensure convenience and privacy.
• Fully Equipped Galley : Our galley comes complete with a refrigerator, freezer, coffee station, and microwave, perfect for preparing gourmet meals onboard.
• Entertainment Options: Stay entertained with YouTube TV for streaming and a surround sound stereo system providing music throughout the yacht.
• Outdoor Living : Relax and unwind in the spacious salon or stretch out under the stars in the cockpit, which can accommodate up to 10 guests. A BBQ grill is available for hosting memorable cookouts onboard.
• State-of-the-Art Navigation : Navigate with confidence using our Garmin navigation and electronics, including two chart plotters, AIS, Radar, and Autopilot, all installed in 2022.
• Private Chefs: Elevate your sailing adventure with the convenience of private chef availability
• Masseuse : Escape the stresses of everyday life with our onboard massage options

Take a look at some pictures captured in and around Summerwind

Testimonials, what our customers say about us.

Sailing with Marty was my first experience as an adult sailing off the coast. We had a wonderful trip starting in St Augustine. First, we were given some basic information about the boat and safety, the other crew members and our destination. Then we were off. We sailed up to Amelia Island for most of the day and then docked at Fernandina Beach marina. We had a short walk into downtown and had a wonderful meal. It was also a great way to really get to know the other members of the crew. The next morning we set off and sailed north to Cumberland Island. Once on the island, we explored the ruins, had a nice hike and enjoyed dinner on the boat. The next step was amazing. We headed off into the sunset on the boat and sailed all night. It was truly exhilarating sailing through the night. At all times, I felt safe but the excitement got me hooked on sailing. Marty is honest, helpful, and always cheerful; exactly what you want in a captain.

This past summer my husband and I had an awesome time on Summerwind. The weather was warm so it was a great time sailing to downtown St Augustine and simply grabbing a mooring ball eating a yummy lunch with our family and diving off the back for a refreshing dip. The following day we took the boat several miles out in the ocean with all the sails up, music on in the cabin; a complete escape from work etc. At day’s end we sailed right up to Caps On The Water restaurant for my birthday where we enjoyed a seafood dinner and drinks. We can’t wait to plan another visit aboard Summerwind, It was a complete vacation over only a single weekend. Many thanks.

Sailing with Marty is truly a treat... He and his trusty Yacht are one with the mighty ocean. Years at sea and behind the helm show, and pay off in high seas or calm. But don't get too comfortable because he is always game to teach you the ropes and be sure you are part of the adventure. There is nothing more peaceful and fulfilling than a day at sea with Marty. Thanks for the memories!

We had such a peaceful experience taking in the joys of the sea while sailing with Marty. He was willing to let us take on roles to help sail the boat (and willing to let us fail, too!) We brought along our two little children (2.5 years and 10 months) and they enjoyed playing below deck and seeing the beautiful scenery sailing by. We were grateful for Marty’s expertise, generosity and passion for sailing!

I've sailed with Captain Marty several times and it was a joy. One of the trips was a longer sail from Puerto Rico to Saint Augustine, Florida in May, 2013. We had a great time and I felt totally comfortable with Marty as our Captain. His sailing and navigating experience made me feel very at ease while on the water - he is a safety conscious sailor. I would give the trip 5 stars!

Being a novice on boats, this was a very exciting time for me. Marty and the crew made me feel very comfortable aboard the Yacht. We sailed down the Cooper River, under the incredible Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and into Charleston Harbor. I enjoyed seeing the USS Yorktown and the submarines. The view of the city of Charleston and the historic homes was amazing! Marty is very knowledgeable about historic sites. Seeing Fort Sumter from the water was also a memorable experience. I would rate this sail as 5 stars

My family and I have sailed many times over the last ten years with Marty and his crews including wonderful afternoons off the coast of St. Augustine. We have had many fabulous overnight trips to places like Fernandina Beach and Cumberland Island. Summerwind is a beautiful Yacht and she sails like a dream. Some our family’s greatest moments have been sailing on Summerwind with the sails up on a beautiful day with gentle breezes moving along the ocean effortlessly. We strive to create lifelong memories with our family by having experiences together and a day on Summerwind is an unforgettable experience. We give Summerwind and the amazing crew 5 stars and can’t wait for our next sailing Adventure.

Unleash Your Sailing Adventure

We invite you to unleash your sailing adventure on the pristine waters of this captivating coastal city. Embark on a journey of discovery and exhilaration as you set sail on our exceptional fleet, crafted to provide the ultimate sailing experience.

At Summerwind, we offer a range of options to cater to sailors of all levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts. Whether you desire a leisurely day sail or an extended voyage, our experienced and knowledgeable captains are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of St. Thomas & St. Augustine as you navigate its scenic waterways, lined with historic landmarks and breathtaking natural landscapes. Feel the thrill of the wind in your sails and the gentle motion of the yacht beneath you, as you embrace the freedom and serenity that sailing brings.

Our fleet features a selection of meticulously maintained vessels, including the elegant and spacious Summerwind flagship yacht. Designed for comfort and performance, these yachts provide the perfect platform to indulge in your passion for sailing while savoring the luxuries and amenities onboard.

With Summerwind, the possibilities for adventure are endless. Set sail for a day trip, exploring nearby coastal gems or embark on a multi-day expedition, discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches. Take part in thrilling regattas or simply relax on deck, basking in the warm Florida sun.

Whether you’re seeking a solo escapade, a romantic getaway, or a memorable group experience, Summerwind caters to your every need. Our dedicated crew ensures a personalized and unforgettable journey, tailored to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to embark on your St Thomas or St Augustine sailing charter? Contact us today and let us help you plan your dream sailing adventure, as we navigate the waters of St Thomas or St Augustine, blending the thrill of sailing with the charm and beauty of this historic city. 

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Exciting News from SAYC Sailing Center!

DID YOU KNOW?

Our sailing program has reached over 1,800 local youth since it started in 2012!

We give over $15,000 in scholarships each year!

We have year round sailing and racing programs!

and... WE NEED YOUR HELP!

The City of St. Augustine has accepted the donation of the building site for the proposed St. Augustine Yacht Club Sailing Center.  SAYCSC had a Groundbreaking Ceremony on January 21st, 2023 and construction began. Currently, our new dock has been built and we are inches away from being able to use it. The bulkhead construction has been completed, as well as the rough plumbing and pouring of our slab. To see the latest construction updates, click here .

We look so forward to moving sailing operations to our new center in 2024 - but we need your help! Please visit our donation page for more information. 

February 17-19: C420 Midwinters @ USSCMC in Jensen Beach, FL

March 9-10: Sunshine State Championships @ USSCMC in Jensen Beach, FL

March 23-24: Mount Dora Regatta @ MDYC in Mt. Dora, FL

April 6-7: St. Augustine Race Week Youth Regatta (420s only) @ SAYC

April 6-7: Sailfest Regatta @ Sarasota Sailing Squadron in Sarasota, FL

April 20-21: LEYSF Youth Regatta @ Lake Eustis Sailing Club in Lake Eustis, FL

May 4-5: Cowford Cup Regatta @ Florida Yacht Club in Jacksonville, FL