U.S. Superyacht Association Announces New Board of Directors

Fort Lauderdale, FL—August 19, 2008—The U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA) announced it’s newly elected Board of Directors for the 2008-2009 term. Tim Davey, of Global Marine Travel, and Billy Smith, of Trinity Yachts, will continue their roles as Chairperson and Vice Chair, respectively. The new board members were announced at the Captains Briefing and Reception in Newport, Rhode Island, in June.

Advocacy: John Mann, Bluewater Brooks & Charts*

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: Rupert Connor, Luxury Yacht Group*

Governance: Michael Karcher, Karcher Canning & Karcher*

Marketing: Gary Tice, On Call International

Membership: Mark Bononi, MHG Marine Benefits*

Recruitment Co-Chair: David Reed, Triton Publishing Group*

Recruitment Co-Chair: Derik Wagner, SeaMobile Inc.

Treasurer: Mark Cline, Cline Financial Group*

Administrator: Julie Lynn, U.S. Superyacht Association

*denotes consecutive terms


The new Board of Directors met today in a strategic planning session at the Lauderdale Yacht Club to set the goals and directions for the 2008-09 boat show season. “The USSA will continue efforts to protect and project the superyacht industry of the United States through trade and advocacy,” commented Chairperson Tim Davey, “promoting the USSA’s member companies, both nationally and internationally, through networking events and representation at industry events, including the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in October. “


In addition, the Board will address trends and issues affecting the superyacht industry, not only in the U.S., but globally. The USSA supported the collaborative efforts of the marine industry in the recent passing of the Clean Boating Act, which continues to protect superyachts from demanding regulations, allowing easier access into U.S. waters. “We will continue our advocacy efforts through Captains Briefings & Receptions, seminars and website postings, commented John Mann, Chairperson of the Advocacy Committee. The Board voted unanimously to focus on increasing communications to members, to the industry and to senior crew and is planning a quarterly web-based newsletter.