Celebrating 14 Years of Excellence: The Journey of 26 North Yachts

Celebrating 14 Years of Excellence: The Journey of 26 North Yachts

This June, 26 North Yachts proudly celebrates 14 years of innovation, adventure, and client-first service in the yachting industry. What began as a shared vision between two lifelong friends has grown into a nationally recognized brokerage and charter firm with offices in Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Newport, Rhode Island. As we reflect on our journey, we’re honored to continue leading the way in luxury yacht sales and charters across the globe.

From Passion to Profession: Founders Who Know the Sea

Founded in 2011 by Mike Carlson and Nicholas Scherb, 26 North Yachts was born from decades of hands-on experience at sea and an unshakable passion for yachting.

Mike Carlson, originally from Chicago, attended Salve Regina University in Newport, RI—one of the most iconic sailing communities in the U.S. He followed his passion for offshore sailing, completing multiple transatlantic crossings and sailing throughout the Northeast, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. After years as a professional sailor, he transitioned ashore to become a yacht broker. With a holistic view of the industry—from crew member to sales expert—Mike co-founded 26 North Yachts with the goal of creating a brokerage that truly understood the needs of yacht owners and buyers.

“When we started 26 North Yachts, our mission was simple: to build a brokerage that reflects the passion we have for yachting and the relationships that come with it,” says Mike Carlson, co-founder and Managing Partner. “Fourteen years later, that same passion still drives everything we do—for our clients, our team, and the future of this incredible industry.”

Mike remains a passionate advocate for the marine industry as a member of IYBA (International Yacht Brokers Association) and the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), where he collaborates with some of the top business minds in the country.

Nicholas Scherb took a different, yet equally immersive path. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in finance, Nicholas pursued a professional career at sea, eventually obtaining a USCG 500-ton master oceans license. His global experience as a yacht captain provided him with a deep understanding of shipyard operations, yacht systems, and crew and contractor management. His dedication to matching clients with the perfect vessel has made him a trusted name in luxury yacht transactions.

Together, Mike and Nicholas bring a 360-degree view of yachting—onboard, onshore, and beyond.

A National Brand with Global Reach

With headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and satellite offices in Naples, FL, and Newport, RI, 26 North Yachts is strategically positioned to serve a wide range of clients from the U.S. to Europe and the Caribbean. Our brokers and charter experts are experienced, passionate, and committed to exceeding expectations every step of the way.

We have recently expanded our services to include a dedicated charter yacht division, offering both retail charter experiences and full-service charter yacht management. This expansion allows us to better serve owners who want to generate revenue from their vessels—and clients looking to book unforgettable charter vacations.

Celebrating 14 Years of Marketing Innovation at 26 North Yachts

As 26 North Yachts marks its 14th anniversary, we’re proud to highlight the role our in-house marketing team plays in driving our continued success. With a strategic, digital-first mindset, we’ve transformed how yachts are marketed—leveraging AI tools, trend forecasting, and strategic content marketing to maximize exposure for every listing.

From personalized digital campaigns to SEO-optimized listings, our team ensures that whether you’re selling, buying, or chartering, your experience is powered by innovation and precision.

Our presence at major Florida boat shows like the Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach International Boat Shows exemplifies this approach. We don’t just participate—we stand out. Our custom-designed displays (like the one featured in the photo) elevate the brand and reflect our commitment to excellence. These events provide an unmatched platform for showcasing our listings and connecting with high-net-worth buyers from around the world.

Fourteen years in, our mission remains clear: to push the boundaries of yacht marketing, deliver results, and create exceptional experiences for our clients.

Looking Ahead: The Future of 26 North Yachts

As we celebrate this major milestone, we’re filled with gratitude for our team, our clients, and the global yachting community that has supported us over the years. But we’re just getting started.
From superyacht sales to bespoke charter experiences, and from adventure travel to lifestyle branding, 26 North Yachts continues to push the boundaries of what a brokerage can be. We look forward to many more years of growth, innovation, and helping clients live their adventure at sea.

Ready to find your next yacht or plan the ultimate charter?
Explore our latest listings and charter offerings at www.26northyachts.com