A Life Shaped by the Lowcountry: Savannah Rubio’s Journey on the Water

For some, the water is an escape.
For others, it becomes home.

In our latest Engel & Völkers Yachting advisor spotlight, we sat down with Savannah Rubio to explore her path from charter deckhand to yachting advisor—and how the winding rivers, marshes, and coastal communities of the Lowcountry shaped her connection to life on the water.

Below, we share key themes and moments from the conversation. Watch the full interview above for the complete story.

Learning the Water from the Deck Up

Savannah’s professional journey on the water began not in sales, but on deck. She spent three years working as a charter deckhand in and around Savannah, navigating the Intracoastal Waterway and the region’s intricate network of rivers and creeks.

Those years offered more than technical skills. They immersed her in the boating culture of the Lowcountry—one defined by respect for the waterways, shared responsibility, and a deeply rooted sense of community. For Savannah, that environment reinforced the importance of stewardship and mutual support, values that continue to guide her work today.

The Lowcountry: Where Life Slows Down

Savannah describes the Lowcountry as a place where life naturally eases its pace. Calm waterways, expansive marshlands, and quiet stretches of river create a sense of serenity that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere.

As part of the Intracoastal Waterway, Savannah serves as both a destination and a crossroads—welcoming cruisers from around the world while maintaining a strong local boating identity. Historic downtown Savannah, nearby barrier islands, and the relaxed coastal culture all contribute to a lifestyle centered on time outdoors and time well spent.

Powerboats, Practicality, and Everyday Adventure

While the region welcomes both power and sail, Savannah finds powerboats particularly well-suited to the Lowcountry’s waterways. Rivers and creeks lend themselves to flexible day trips, whether that means pulling up to a dockside restaurant, spending an afternoon fishing, or enjoying watersports with friends and family.

At the same time, sailboats remain an integral part of the local maritime fabric, with liveaboards, visiting cruisers, and youth sailing programs adding depth and diversity to the boating community.

Taking the Helm: Pursuing a Captain’s License

After years on charter vessels, Savannah chose to deepen her knowledge by pursuing her OUPV captain’s license. The decision reflects her commitment to understanding vessels from the inside out—navigation, systems, and safety—and to offering informed guidance to her clients.

As a woman advancing in a traditionally male-dominated field, Savannah’s experience speaks to the evolving nature of the yachting industry. Her path highlights the importance of representation, mentorship, and continued growth within the profession.

Where Real Estate and Yachting Intersect

With experience in both real estate and yachting, Savannah sees a natural connection between the two industries. Each revolves around lifestyle, location, and how people envision their time—whether on land or on the water.

Waterfront homes, dock access, and vessel ownership often align, and Savannah helps clients think holistically about how their property and boating goals can complement one another. It’s a perspective shaped by real-world experience and an understanding that both homes and boats are deeply personal choices.

Golden Hour and Lasting Impressions

Some of Savannah’s most meaningful memories on the water come at the end of the day. After long hours spent hosting guests on charter, returning through the waterways at sunset brought a sense of stillness and reflection.

Golden hour in the Lowcountry captures the essence of the region: softer light, calmer winds, and a quiet that allows the moment to fully settle. These experiences continue to define what the water means to Savannah.

Guiding Others Along the Way

Today, Savannah brings together hands-on boating experience, market knowledge, and a deep appreciation for the Lowcountry lifestyle. Her approach is grounded in helping clients find the right fit—whether they are seasoned boaters or just beginning to explore yacht ownership.

Her journey reflects a broader truth shared by many in yachting: the water has a way of shaping lives, often in subtle but lasting ways.

Watch the Full Interview

Savannah Rubio’s story offers a thoughtful look at life along the Intracoastal Waterway and the community that defines boating in the Lowcountry.

Watch the full interview above to learn more about Savannah’s path, her perspective on yachting, and what makes Savannah such a compelling destination on the water.

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 Savannah, visit:
👉 Engel & Völkers Yachting

👉 Savannah Rubio – Yachting Advisor