A Career Built on Reinvention — and a Lifelong Pull Toward the Water

Before stepping into the world of yachting, Julie built a 25-year career in banking, insurance, and healthcare finance after earning her CPA. But even during the busiest chapters of her corporate life, one constant remained:
she was always on or near the water.

From powerboating in her early twenties to long days exploring lakes with family, the sea was a steady presence. Still, a future in yachting wasn’t a path she anticipated.

That changed during a trip with her husband—a trained chef—when they discovered a shared love for traditional bed-and-breakfast stays. Long before the rise of Airbnb, the couple dreamed of one day opening their own B&B. Eventually, life opened the door:
they moved to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands and transformed a property into a full-service island bed-and-breakfast.

It was here that Julie’s love for the ocean deepened, and her interest in sailing took shape.

From Powerboating to Sailing: A New Chapter Begins

While living in the Caribbean, Julie transitioned from powerboating to sailing—an evolution that reshaped her relationship with the water. She and her husband began chartering sailboats with captains, learning the ropes, gaining confidence, and eventually pursuing their ASA sailing certifications.

A few bareboat charters later—some hilarious, some terrifying, all unforgettable—they realized sailing was no longer just a hobby; it was part of their identity.

These experiences, along with navigating boat purchases, marine surveys, transportation logistics, and the realities of boat ownership, became the foundation for Julie’s approach as a yachting advisor today.

Why Yachting? And Why Engel & Völkers?

Through every boat she purchased and every lesson learned at sea, Julie recognized a gap:
many buyers needed a more personal, empathetic, and informed connection during their yachting journey.

As an Enneagram Type 2 (“The Helper”), Julie felt naturally drawn to a career where her own experience could help guide others—especially first-time yacht buyers or those transitioning from power to sail.

When she connected with Engel & Völkers Yachting, she immediately felt aligned with the brand’s global reputation, high service standards, and commitment to building real relationships.
Her Sarasota office sealed the deal: a collaborative culture, an experienced team, and a network focused on delivering elevated yachting experiences.

Memories That Shape a Life on the Water

In the interview, Julie shares three defining moments from her life—each tied to the sea:

• Learning to slalom ski on a lake with her uncle, who taught her the responsibility of vessel ownership and respect for others on the water.
  • Passing those lessons to her son, teaching him to ski, wakeboard, and practice safe boating.
  • Anchoring beneath the USS Yorktown in Charleston, where her uncle once served, and watching fireworks overhead during the ship’s 250-year anniversary celebration.

For Julie, these experiences are reminders of why she loves the water—and why she wants others to experience that same joy.

Helping Clients Navigate Their Own Journey

Today, Julie brings firsthand knowledge from both the charter world and the boat ownership experience—offering clients support whether they’re ready to purchase or prefer starting with a week-long crewed or bareboat charter.

She recently earned her certification from the Charter Yacht Broker Association, allowing her to help families create meaningful vacation experiences even if they’re not ready to buy.

And when they are ready?
Her background, professionalism, and lived experience make her an advisor clients trust deeply.

Watch the Full Interview

Whether you’re considering your first vessel, exploring the world of chartering, or simply inspired by stories from the sea, Julie’s journey is a reminder that the ocean has a way of reshaping our lives in unexpected, beautiful ways.

Learn More About Engel & Völkers Yachting

At Engel & Völkers Yachting, we bring together a global luxury network, unmatched industry knowledge, and a personalized approach to help clients navigate every chapter of their yachting journey.

To learn more, explore vessels, or connect directly with Julie, visit:
👉 Julie Hayne – Global Yacht Advisor

👉 Engel & Völkers Yachting