Meet the
Ward Yacht Sales Team

Co-Owner | Founder | Yacht & Ship Sales Employing Broker | IYBA Member

Benjamin Ward

Ben is the co-founder of Ward Yacht Sales and has over 25 years of experience owning and operating powerboats and sailboats.  After 22 years in fin-tech, he and his family of five cruised full-time for four years aboard a Passport 47 sailboat, voyaging over 10K ocean miles and visiting 13 countries. Ben worked as a broker on the Chesapeake Bay and in Florida prior to launching Ward Yacht Sales.  Ben is passionate about client advocacy, integrity, and service.  Our goal is to exceed the expectations of every customer and build lifelong relationships based on trust.

Co-Owner | Managing Partner| Yacht & Ship Sales Broker

Amber Ward

Amber is the co-founder of Ward Yacht Sales with over 18 years of sailing experience, including racing and extensive offshore cruising.  After teaching public school, she raised and homeschooled our three girls.  She spent 4 of those years on a sailboat, traveling thousands of offshore ocean miles across most of the US East Coast, the Bahamas, and the Eastern Caribbean.  Amber assists with the day to day operations, market analysis, and logistics for the business and provides support to our clients and our outstanding team of brokers throughout Florida.

SW Florida Regional Manager | Senior Yacht & Ship Sales Broker | USCG Licensed Captain

Ryan Hunt

Captain Ryan is a veteran of the United States Coast Guard, with over 20 years of experience in the marine industry. Holding a 100 Ton Masters license, he specializes in the sport fish market and day boats powered by outboard engines.  Captain Ryan prioritizes clients' needs, whether it's selling a yacht or finding the perfect vessel to meet their needs. Ryan also owns a yacht management business in Naples, FL.  His extensive knowledge and passion for boating ensure every client experience is professional, enjoyable, and focused on achieving the best results.

Yacht & Ship Sales Broker | USCG Licensed Captain

Tony Dimakarakos

Tony has been a U.S. Master Captain since 2004, bringing decades of hands-on boating and accredited marine surveyor experience as owner of The Boat Captain. He ensures his clients feel confident, informed, and fully supported throughout the purchase process. Known for his warm and trustworthy demeanor, he takes pride in building genuine relationships and an understanding what truly fits each client’s boating lifestyle. His proven record reflects his commitment to delivering smooth, successful yacht sales and long-term client satisfaction.

Yacht & Ship Sales Broker

Laura Gasparini

Laura brings a lifelong passion for the ocean and adventure to the world of yacht sales. Having spent her childhood in the South Pacific and logging over 200 dives throughout the world. With a professional background in finance and technology, Laura combines analytical precision with a people-first approach. Her goal is to make every transaction seamless, transparent, and enjoyable. Laura appreciates the art of creating exceptional experiences and is dedicated to delivering personalized service with integrity and enthusiasm.

Yacht & Ship Sales Broker | IYBA Member

Mitxi Ortiz

Mitxi has over ten years of professional yachting experience including charter and yacht management services with Coast Yachts in Chicago, cultivating deep, enduring connections with yacht owners and the fleet. Her passion for delivering outstanding service and bespoke experiences led her to yacht sales, where she helps clients discover the ideal vessel for their adventures. Mitxi is committed to making the buying and selling experience effortless, ensuring every client can buy or sell with confidence, building lasting memories on the water.

Yacht & Ship Sales Broker | USCG Licensed Captain

Don Peterman

Don began yachting in 2019 and has a deep understanding of yacht operations, performance, and vessel systems. As a captain, his time on the water gives him a valuable perspective—knowing what makes a vessel not only functional but exceptional. As a yacht broker, Don brings experience and dedication to helping clients find the right vessel to match their lifestyle and goals. With a focus on transparency, expertise, and personalized service, he ensures an enjoyable experience from showing to final closing.

Yacht & Ship Sales Broker | USCG Licensed Captain

Dustin Taylor

Dustin brings a practical, real-world perspective to every deal, as both a licensed captain and experienced yacht owner.  He has bought, sold, and lived aboard yachts with his family, so he understands the process from an owner’s perspective and focuses on making each step smooth, transparent, and enjoyable. Whether assisting first-time buyers or seasoned owners, Dustin takes a highly consultative approach starting with trust, knowledge, and prioritizing long-term satisfaction — helping clients find not just the right boat, but the right lifestyle.