William Blackwell
Yacht Consultant
Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, William Blackwell began his maritime career at a young age working on commercial vessels before entering the yachting industry at just 18 years old. By the age of 21, William earned his first captain’s position and quickly advanced to commanding large yachts up to 160 feet. Over a 15-year career as a professional yacht captain, he operated vessels throughout the United States, the Bahamas, and Europe, gaining extensive experience in yacht operations, crew management, and international cruising programs. He holds a 1600-ton Master’s license.
During his captaining career, William managed and operated some of the most successful charter programs in the industry, including the 130-foot Riva Tasty Waves. Working closely with owners, charter clients, shipyards, and maritime attorneys, he developed a deep understanding of yacht valuation, operational costs, and ownership strategy. These years of hands-on experience provided him with a rare combination of technical knowledge and real-world insight into what makes a yacht both enjoyable to own and successful to operate.
William transitioned into yacht brokerage to apply his operational background and long-standing passion for yacht sales in a new capacity. As a yacht broker with Worth Avenue Yachts, he brings a captain’s perspective to every transaction. His experience allows him to evaluate vessels thoroughly, anticipate potential challenges, and guide transactions with clarity and confidence. From vessel selection and market positioning to survey, sea trial, and closing, William remains actively involved at every stage of the process to ensure his clients are fully informed and protected.
Known for his direct, proactive style, William prides himself on being honest, detail-oriented, and fully committed to his clients’ best interests. His background operating complex yachts enables him to identify technical and ownership considerations that may not be immediately apparent, helping clients make well-informed decisions. He believes in prioritizing the quality of each transaction over speed and focuses on building long-term relationships based on trust, transparency, and results.
When not working, William enjoys staying active in the gym and spending time with his family, including his two daughters and partner. He is passionate about golfing, snowboarding, fishing, traveling, and being on the water whenever possible. What he loves most about yachting is the lifestyle, the travel, and the people he meets along the way.
William’s mission as a yacht broker is simple: to protect his clients and guide them through smart, successful yacht transactions
