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112 Broward Motoryacht Walkthrough [Boat Review + Video]

Take an extensive tour of the 112 broward [lady sharon gale] in st. thomas, usvi with will noftsinger..

This article is a transcription of the 112 Broward video from Denison’s Youtube Channel . Tune in daily to discover the latest yacht video walkthroughs from the world’s largest yacht video collection. Watch the full video below:

The Denison family is really a storybook in our industry. In 1948 Frank Denison came down from Michigan and purchased a yard in Fort Lauderdale that became Broward Marine which is one of the most storied yards in American shipbuilding. In total Broward built almost 300 yachts and today I get the privilege of bringing you one of those 300. I’m Will Noftsinger with Denison Yachting and this is LADY SHARON GALE.

This is a 112 Broward Motoryacht delivered to her first owner in 1999. There’s a ton of innovations on board that Broward really became known for. Something like the wide body that you see behind me giving you a massive amount of interior volume, the country kitchen that keeps your galley up on the main deck and gives your group another space to gather and relax. All while delivering generous room in a 4 cabin 5 head layout that includes a full beam master suite. LADY SHARON GALE also has a few things that most comparable Browards. Don’t this versatile cockpit here on the aft deck and MTU engines which is something we really need to highlight because most of these yachts have Detroit diesels and that’s something we’ll touch on later.

You can see right now that davit is in the vertical position, it’s getting serviced right now and ready for a charter. We’re going to do our best to work around that. I’m excited to get on board and show you guys exactly what makes them so special and why something like a cockpit is one of the best features you’re ever going to have on a yacht.

We’re going to dive right in here on the aft deck and check out this cockpit. This is one of the only ones that was built this way. You’ve got excellent access to all your water sports, so if you want to do your paddle boards or get your dive gear ready. This provides an awesome platform to get that stuff ready. We’re going to take a little bit of a closer look at this cockpit. We’ve got huge storage below us and probably one of my favorite features is a deep freeze right here. You don’t have to go all the way inside to take all your cold stuff in. It’s right there conveniently located. Just next to it, we’ve got access to our engine room that takes us down to the crew quarters and the MTUs. And on this side we’ve got a sink, prep area and drop in storage. It also doubles as a cooler. Rounding out the cockpit, I’ve got shore power cords to either side and cap stands for docking. Let’s go check out the aft deck. And what an awesome aft deck it is. It’s super spacious, has a lot of great features like this built-in bench seating, the wet bar behind me and you’ve got a really unique staircase. This spiral setup is something I’ve never seen on another boat before and I really like the fact we got the upgrades of LED lighting and brand new sound system.

broward yacht reviews

Broward did an excellent job when they designed this flybridge. It’s got four features that are super prominent and most boats don’t have them all. The first feature is the tinder storage which is located aft. The nautical structures davit can launch either of these two sea-doo wave runners and with the 2000 pound capacity, you’ve got the option for different toy configurations that might be more suitable for your program. The second and most prominent is this Jacuzzi it makes or breaks most flybridge Motoryachts especially if you’re going to take it on charter. The third must-have of a fly bridge is functional guest space. The crew has their wet bar to starboard with a sink, fridge, ice maker and all the storage needed to prep the table for guests. An aspect that makes Browards more appealing than most of their competitors is the customization factor. Soft decor can be changed and it’s common to see throughout the lives of these yachts. LADY SHARON GALE is no different and has seen several. The appeal lies in the ability to make this blank canvas something new that you can call your own.

And finally the fourth feature is a well laid out helm station. Captain Mark has a new Furuno TZ touch display at his fingertips located at both helms not just here. We also have two Simrad autopilots, access to the Nyad hydraulic bow thruster, Nyad stabilizer controls, MTU displays, VHF radios and anything else possible for captain Mark to move this ship. The last feature to point out up here are these two wing stations located at port and starboard.

Let’s follow the hardtop back past the Jacuzzi down the stairs and into the salon. This is one of the more marquee design features you’re going to find on any Broward. When they did the wide body, it gave you the ability to customize a space that really feels like an apartment. These guys decided to upgrade their floors and gave it this distressed tile feel but it’s an amazing space that you can make your own. Thanks to all the freestanding furniture. And right now you get the full dramatic effect. Pushing the walls out, eliminating the walk-arounds gives us this massive feel. Seating in the aft section of the salon, storage along both sides outboard for the dining table’s cutlery and glassware. With another wet bar just forward equipped with a fridge, ice maker, sink and most notably the 80 inch smart TV located above.

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We’re going to continue forward here. As we walk forward on the starboard side this takes me to the foredeck. This right here is a super important dayhead and this takes me to the pilothouse. But for now let’s check out this country kitchen which is a name that Broward pretty much trademarked. If you look around, we have tons of space. This feels like a kitchen in somebody’s home. Full size appliances, I can’t emphasize enough how important that is. Specked out to be able to fit in a home. So you don’t have to custom order anything, should you want to change anything. A cooktop with a stainless steel hood something not found on most yachts. Beautiful granite countertops, dishwasher, trash compactor and a wine cooler.

Forward in the galley is a little breakfast nook which really is what constitutes as a country kitchen. Having this area to hang out while the chef’s cooking, keeps the family together while you’re relaxing in the morning. This little breakfast nook is where I had my coffee this morning and it’s awesome for the crew. Something we got to highlight before we continue on is a control 4 system. I can do anything to change the lighting, to the sound system, even check the weather with a simple push of a button. There’s also a panel on the salon as well as all the staterooms which we’ll check out in a little bit. Forward and the starboard of the galley, we have access down to the VIP stateroom. This is yet another aspect that I love about this layout. It’s completely secluded from the rest of the boat very generous for a VIP with space for the queen berth forward, entertainment system, storage throughout it even has a desk and a walk-in closet with the ensuite head on the opposing side.

broward yacht reviews

Moving back where we came from to the main deck there’s access to the side deck which brings us forward to the bow. This section of the yacht is totally dedicated to lounging. Not only do you have this space here but up a few steps there’s an even larger sun pad with an elevated view for amazing sunsets or viewing while you cruise. Another item to mention on the bow is your ground tackle and this one features two Maxwell 4500 series windlasses. So Broward like we’ve talked about the entire time on this boat does an amazing job of giving you huge space. So we’re going to go down check out the 2 guest state rooms and the master stateroom. Let’s see those you’re going to be really impressed about how much space you get. Let’s go.

All right so we’re coming down here to the master stateroom which is forward but first we’re going to check out these two aft staterooms. Let’s step in the port side first. You guys get a good look at exactly what I love about these staterooms. There’s two beds. Sometimes I enjoy staying in this bed and my wife and this one so that I can get out easily and hit the head if I need to without interrupting her. If you have kids, excellent spot for the kid to stay. You guys can stay here and you still have easy access to your own ensuite head. On top of that we got tons of drawer storage here and a nice TV that pops out so you can watch it from any part of the room and a huge closet so you can store all your clothes for any kind of trip you go on.

broward yacht reviews

So we’re going to check out the other stateroom which is a mirror image of this one. One thing we’ll point out because we didn’t do it over there is that both rooms like every room in this boat, carry a control 4 system audio visual all the tip of your fingers right here. We’re going to check out the master stateroom, that’s what everybody’s been waiting for. Before we do that just a quick note, washer dryer here both by Electrolux and they’re brand new. Nice to have that for your stew to be able to do all the bedding and whatnot in here. You’re going to see a really nice full beam master stateroom. You got a his and hers closet. Both of them have automatic lights, tons of storage hang all your stuff for the weekend getaway. You got the same thing on the other side and LG smart TV, watch Netflix, watch the game whatever you want. We also have a nice refrigerator here. So you can have any beverages you wish while you’re watching TV. A few steps aft his and hers heads that each have access to the walk-in shower at the center encased in glass. The crew quarters and the power plant of LADY SHARON GALE are accessed here in the center of this cockpit. Let’s go check that out next.

On the starboard side, we’ve got a full walk-in head and a full walk-in shower that all three of these crew quarters accommodate. On the port side, we have two staterooms. This is a single and just four to that we have two over unders. On the starboard side, we have the captain’s quarters and separating those is a full washer dryer.

So we’re here in the engine room that’s the next stop on today’s tour. It’s a little loud because you’re going to hear the chillers and the engine room blower we just got back from a trip. But that’s what happens after you shut down your 16V 2000s which you can see on either side of me. Awesome access for any mechanics that need to do any work get to your generators which you have two of 55 kW northern lights generators, more than capable of powering the entire boat. We’ve also got brand new Mach 5 pumps for everything in the boat and brand new chillers. So everything stays ice cold and something that really rounds out this room is that we have displays and they’re both brand new from MTU. So if anybody’s down here they can see exactly what’s going on with everything on these engines.

broward yacht reviews

At 1000 RPM we’re burning just 22 gallons an hour and that delivers a speed of 10 knots. And with a reported fuel capacity of 7 500 gallons that gives us an economical range of almost 3000 nautical miles. Earlier we mentioned that it’s super important that this yacht’s got MTUs instead of Detroit diesels. Well, let me tell you exactly why. Even though the Detroit diesels were great motors back in their time, the parts are coming harder to find and service can be difficult. It’s nice to have a company as powerful as MTU behind you, a 100% worth having.

Thanks for joining us aboard today’s tour on LADY SHARON GALE . My wife Karie and I would love an opportunity to come back to St. Thomas and show you this boat behind me. Please contact us anytime.

Probably the biggest strong suit of the boat is the fact that you could just make this boat yours and not have to sit there and work within the confines of what most yachts are. You just have a shell you have a great shell to operate on. That’s probably the biggest strong suit of a Broward.

Inquire About the 112 Broward Motoryacht [LADY SHARON GALE]:

Will noftsinger.

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Conrad Shipyard Launches C144S Hull #2 [EXTRA TIME], Christening Ceremony in Poland to Come Conrad has officially launched its second C144S, named EXTRA TIME. Denison Yachting would like to congratulate Conrad Shipyard on the recent launch of EXTRA TIME, which is Hull #2 in the award-winning C144S series. Yacht broker Alex G. Clarke, who

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2024 Newport Beach International Boat Show

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broward yacht reviews

Founded in 1948 by Frank Denison, Broward evolved into the preeminent line of yachts built in the US. Recognized for their modern, raised pilothouse lines, they were the superyacht of their era and remain coveted by yachtsmen today. Denison grew Broward from a company producing minesweepers for the US Navy during the early 1950’s into one that pioneered luxury yacht building. Since 1956, Broward has constructed more aluminum yachts than any other US-based firm, with a good number of them falling into the megayacht category. Soulmate, the grand finale’ of the Denison-designed 20’ beam boats, carries a distinct badge of honor. Her hull has been the foundation of nearly 40 yachts dating back to the late 1980’s. Many of Broward’s original craftsmen, who Lewis has brought back onboard, have embraced the company’s new direction and are continuing to refine an already well-proven platform. Measuring 106 feet and constructed in Broward’s alloy of choice; aluminum, Soulmate bares a resemblance to her many siblings. One of Broward’s hallmarks are windows fit for a view. Not only do they provide supreme scenery, they offer a glimpse into the future, because Broward’s new 120’ will share similarities, but on a larger more modern scale.

broward yacht reviews

The name Broward originated from the Florida County they are built in. A number of years ago (too many to be exact), the 95’ Broward “Alisa V” was acknowledged by Time magazine as the largest private motor yacht built in the U.S. for three decades running. And now Soulmate at 106’ will be among the smallest yachts Broward builds. How times have changed! But one thing remains the same, these are boats designed for enjoying the favorable year-round weather that South Florida offers. Outdoor space, such as the flybridge, invites lots of sun and plenty of room to move about. A full 50% of the boats length is dedicated to the flybridge area with tandem Bimini tops that could double as an event tent. The layout of the flybridge deck looks to be the work of a professional party planner, because every conceivable amenity is present, well positioned and ready for festivities. Photo Caption: Broward uses a full planing surface on the wide beam hulls. These are shallow deadrise hulls with a full-length keel. Perfect for the waters intended, the Caribbean. Seen making some serious headway here, she cruises at 18 knots and will top 22 knots with another pair of soulmates… twin 1300 hp Cat’s.

broward yacht reviews

Show central of the flybridge is a full-blown, galley fashioned wet bar, complete with multi-level countertops, one for prep and one for serving. The usual suspects are included as well, such as a sink, fridge and outdoor grille. On the flip side of the wet bar is a crescent shaped dinette that is fashioned into the superstructure, as are all the flybridge components. Moving aft a whirlpool sets the stage for fun with lounges for soaking up sun.

broward yacht reviews

Up forward and hiding behind a full wrap-around windscreen are two helm stations. A master helm to port and a satellite helm to starboard, each with independent bench seating and joy-stick steering. Dividing the helms not only adds redundancy, it enables easier handling, increased line of sight and reduces the number of crew needed. Short of the control stanchions found on many superyachts, it’s a feature that no big boat should be without. Photo Caption: Broward has drawn on years of owner experience and recognized the importance of a large, fully contained flybridge deck. The result is an optimized use of space that is clean and convenient. It is so well planned, admission should be charged.

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The far aft deck is reserved for tender stowage, but when the dinghy is down, the deck is spacious enough to double as a dance floor. And finally, a semi-circular staircase on the flybridge aft deck provides a quick escape below to keep interior traffic minimized.

broward yacht reviews

Twin-curving staircases with sweeping stainless handrails lead to an extended swim platform with removable railings, providing quick retrieval for the man overboard or a good gangplank for unwelcome guests. The platform also grants access to the crew quarters and engine room via a sealed stern door, keeping working hands at bay and giving the crew their own separate way. Purposeful elements abound, such as waterline level rub-rail. Sounds simple, but it not only adds stability, it ensures rafting ribs won’t leave a mark.

broward yacht reviews

Thankfully, about the only teak soles too be found on the exterior are located under cover… and this is good. The remainder of Soulmate’s exposed surfaces are protected with paint and glistening with stainless. Although the dinette on the aft deck is wood, it’s a solo act. It seats six comfortably and eight in a jam. It’s not only important for a yacht to look new when launched, but to remain looking this way for many years to come. When you’ve built as many yachts as Broward (with a good number of them located close-by), it’s easy to see what materials have weathered well and which ones are looking like the remnants of Wilma. Broward has learned a Good Deal from the past and they’re using this knowledge to guide the future. Hence, there’s a lot less lumber on the new boats, access to vital systems can be reached by a full-size adult and maintenance is down to a good boat wash. Quite simply, Broward’s are built to be used and thus… they have become among the most popular charter yachts on the water.

broward yacht reviews

The big-beam Broward’s are best known for their interior volume. The salon dimensions are straight out of a luxury home… or a much bigger boat. Nearly as wide as it is long, Soulmate shares it’s salon with the formal dining area. The traditionally styled interior is based on a neutral palette, offset by cherry-stained maple joinery throughout. It’s comfortable, yet upscale. This may sound like an oxymoron, but there’s a fine art in creating an inviting atmosphere without inviting the Thirston Howell crowd. As you enter the salon, a familiar feel takes over. Let’s forget for a moment the furnishings, the décor and the colors. Broward has this amazing ability to create something familiar, yet something new. It’s a feel that escapes words, but maybe “escape” is the best description. In the end, this is what a luxury yacht SHOULD be. Getting back to the salon, looking forward are port/starboard passageways. Both lead to the raised pilothouse, but the starboardway leads to the galley. The salon is furnished with an eclectic mix of sofas, lounges chairs, coffee tables and yes, the chess table that nobody actually uses.

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Centered on the starboard side of the main salon and concealed within a granite-topped hutch, a flat panel displays rises at the touch of a button. More than a few accessories have found the floor when the uninitiated forget to clear the counter before engaging these types of rising screens.

broward yacht reviews

For claiming checkmate onboard Soulmate...

broward yacht reviews

Although mildly divided by two mid-level partitions, one of Soulmate’s smart features is a combined dining and salon area that creates an open atmosphere conducive to inclusion. In reality, Soulmate has three complete dining areas: the main salon, the galley dinette and the island in the galley… a boat truly built to divulge.

broward yacht reviews

Soulmate really puts the country in kitchen. This is no surprise, as Broward literally created the concept. Broward knows the focal point of a party is the kitchen. If you want to sleep… go below! The materials utilized in the kitchen are soft and warm. Soulmate’s galley feels like the lake house… with a dash of salt. Most prevalent is the island counter, rising from the center of the galley like the ultimate carving block; it is one of the primary preparation areas and a central gathering point of the party.

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Accessed from the galley via a wrought-iron railed staircase, the pedestal mounted VIP guest bed is located forward, in the bow. Although there are no portholes for these quarters, it features a ventilation hatch in the ceiling that opens to the bow deck. A set of light switches is located conveniently adjacent to the headboard as well.

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The full beam owner’s suite, located amidship, features a king size island berth with a headboard… fit for a king. Night tables flank the berth, with built in drawers cradling a cozy love seat. Of course, a complete entertainment system lurks within the surrounding cabinetry. Large walk-in closets are located aft of the mastersuite (to each corner), while his-her bath entries are located forward, just behind the headboard.

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His and hers heads are divided by one of the largest showers east of the rain forest. A mosaic of tile, large and small, is blended together in imaginative patterns that would challenge the most talented artesian, while sliding shower doors made of diffused, rippled glass cast a Gaussian blur of separation. Looking up, overhead mirrors in each head add magnitude and dimension to the entire suite.

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One of the three guest rooms with ensuite heads, this is the double located at midship, across the corridor from the twin-bunk guest room. The headboard features a valance that jettisons out from the wall with recessed illumination. This particular room features a antique theme with torn maps, vintage night lights and periodical upholstery.

broward yacht reviews

Inter-woven, like two lives coming together, this is Soulmate’s lower deck corridor floor. Too nice to walk on...

broward yacht reviews

The crew quarters are simple, but sizeable. Fully equipped, Broward gave good consideration to Soulmate’s charter intentions with provisions for 4 to 5 crewmembers to be self-contained.

broward yacht reviews

One of two sets of crew bunks. Well lit and cozy, they're the perfect, private escape for rest and reading.

broward yacht reviews

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Sky Charter Yacht

NOT FOR CHARTER *

This Yacht is not for Charter*

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SKY yacht NOT for charter*

35.97m  /  118' | broward | 1995 / 2011.

Owner & Guests

  • Previous Yacht

The 35.97m/118' motor yacht 'Sky' (ex. Lady Hawke) was built by Broward in the United States at their Fort Lauderdale, Florida shipyard. Her interior is styled by design house Robin Rose & Associates and she was completed in 1995. This luxury vessel's exterior design is the work of Broward and she was last refitted in 2011.

Guest Accommodation

Sky has been designed to comfortably accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 suites. She is also capable of carrying up to 5 crew onboard to ensure a relaxed luxury yacht experience.

Range & Performance

Built with a aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure, with teak decks, she benefits from a semi-displacement hull to provide exceptional seakeeping and impressive speeds. Powered by twin diesel Detroit Diesel (16 V 92 TA) 1,449hp engines, she comfortably cruises at 16 knots, reaches a maximum speed of 20 knots. Her water tanks store around 3,785 Litres of fresh water.

*Charter Sky Motor Yacht

Motor yacht Sky is currently not believed to be available for private Charter. To view similar yachts for charter , or contact your Yacht Charter Broker for information about renting a luxury charter yacht.

Sky Yacht Owner, Captain or marketing company

'Yacht Charter Fleet' is a free information service, if your yacht is available for charter please contact us with details and photos and we will update our records.

Sky Yacht

NOTE to U.S. Customs & Border Protection

Specification

M/Y Sky

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Business | South Florida yacht brokers hit with lawsuits…

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Business | south florida yacht brokers hit with lawsuits that claim 10% commissions violate antitrust laws.

Yachts are among the vessels seen on display in this 2019 file photo in Palm Beach County. Two new lawsuits, filed in 2024, aim to upend years-old ways of awarding commissions to brokers representing boat sellers and buyers. (South Florida Sun Sentinel file photo)

Two newly filed federal lawsuits claim that 10% sales commissions required by South Florida’s yacht broker industry are anticompetitive and violate antitrust laws.

The claims follow an October finding by a federal jury in Kansas City, Missouri, that the National Association of Realtors conspired with brokers to artificially inflate commissions paid to real estate brokers. The ruling, and a March 15 settlement by the Realtors, is expected to radically change how homes are sold in the United States.

Both lawsuits involving yacht brokers name as defendants the International Yacht Brokers Association, based in Fort Lauderdale, the Yacht Brokers Association of America, Boats Group LLC and YATCO LLC.

Also listed as defendants in both suits are a who’s who of South Florida-based yacht brokers, including Denison Yacht Sales, MarineMax Inc., Galati Yacht Sales Inc., Allied Marine Inc., Tournament Yacht Sales LLC and Northrop & Johnson Yacht Ships, among others.

Nearly all of the defendants are headquartered in South Florida.

The most recent suit, filed on March 22, proposes a class of plaintiffs that includes anyone who listed vessels on certain Multiple Listing Services using a listing agent or broker affiliated with one of the defendants and paid a buyer’s broker commission since March 22, 2020.

The lead plaintiff in the lawsuit is Kip Lamar Snell, identified as an Alabama resident. Snell entered into an agreement with Galati to sell a 41-foot Express Cruiser Sea Ray in July 2020 and ended up paying a $12,000 commission on the $120,000 sale price, the suit states. The lawsuit lists as defendants 15 brokers and six organizations that promote the yacht trade or operate Multiple Listing Services.

That lawsuit follows one filed on Feb. 29 that proposes a class of plaintiffs that includes anyone who paid a commission to a listing broker affiliated with the defendants since Feb. 19, 2020. It lists as defendants 11 brokers and five organizations that promote the yacht trade or operate Multiple Listing Services.

The lead plaintiff in that suit is Ya Mon Expeditions, a Wyoming company that paid a “substantial broker commission” when it sold a vessel in January 2023 while represented by Tournament Yacht Sales of Tequesta.

The most recent complaint accuses the trade associations of colluding with brokers to “enforce an anticompetitive restraint that requires (sellers of pre-owned yachts and boats) to pay a brokerage fee to the buyer’s broker and a total aggregate commission fee that is inflated as a condition for selling their yachts.”

The complaint states the typical commission is 10% and is shared between the seller’s broker and the buyer’s broker under terms spelled out in Central Listing Agreements provided by the brokers associations, including the International Yacht Brokers Association and the Yacht Brokers Association of America.

Only boat brokers are able to list boats and yachts on such Multiple Listing Services as YachtWorld.com, BoatTrader.com and Boats.com, and the Multiple Listing Services will not accept listings from owners who want to sell their vessels themselves, the lawsuit states.

Yacht owners are “severely disadvantaged” if they do not list their boats for sale on the listing services, while buyers suffer because their brokers are “financially incentivized” to show boats that will earn them standard “and inflated” commission rates of 4% to 5% through co-brokerage transactions, the complaint states.

None of the defendants contacted for this story responded to a request for comment, and no response has been filed yet in either case.

Robert Allen Jr., whose Miami-based law firm Robert Allen Law represents the International Yacht Brokers Association, did not respond to emails or return a phone call.

A woman who answered the phone at the International Yacht Brokers Association said, “We have no comment on that,” and hung up after a reporter asked for her name.

Of six brokers contacted for comment about the lawsuits, only Tournament Yacht Sales responded to emails. “No comment,” the company’s response stated.

Overall commissions have increased faster than the rate of inflation in recent years as the price of larger boats and yachts have increased, according to the lawsuit that lists Snell as lead plaintiff.

The result is that boat owners pay “hundreds of millions of dollars” in inflated commissions each year, the suit alleges.

Both lawsuits allege violations of the Sherman Antitrust Act that are upheld by “brokers who should be competing with one another but, instead, cooperate with each other to the detriment of pre-owned boat sellers.”

Some brokerages represent both buyers and sellers and retain the entire 10% commissions, the suits state.

The trade associations enforce rules requiring brokers to offer their boats through a listing service and to share commissions, the suits state, adding that they can impose significant penalties on members who do not comply with their rules.

Yacht purchasers are disadvantaged by the current system, the lawsuit alleges, because their agents would otherwise negotiate for their business by decreasing their commission rates.

But buyer brokers’ commissions have remained constant despite their diminishing role, the suits state. Many buyers today find boats they are interested in purchasing through online searches and enlist the services of a buyer’s broker only after identifying the yacht they want to buy, the suits claim.

The lawsuits seek an order declaring the commission structure to be illegal, a permanent injunction outlawing what they describe as anticompetitive conduct, plus damages and/or restitution, pre- and post-judgment interest, and attorneys’ fees.

Paul Geller, an attorney for one of two law firms representing the class that includes Snell, acknowledged “parallels between the allegations relating to commissions in the real estate and yacht markets.”

In the real estate matter, the National Association of Realtors on March 15 agreed to a $418 million proposed settlement that would free home sellers from paying commissions to brokers for both sellers and buyers.

After a jury ruled for the plaintiffs in the case against the National Association of Realtors in October, numerous lawsuits were filed across the country with similar allegations, including one in December against the Florida Association of Realtors and 16 brokerages.

“At bottom, the goals of (the suit against the yacht brokers) are similar: protecting consumers by challenging what we allege to be anti-competitive conduct,” Geller said by email. “We believe in the universal truth that consumers benefit by increased transparency and the competitive pricing that results from negotiated terms, including commissions.”

Geller is a partner at Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP, which specializes in securities litigation on behalf of investors. The firm has offices in 10 cities, including Boca Raton.

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected].

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