The full-day educational program for the 2026 YBAA Annual Conference is set — and it's one of the strongest lineups we've put together. From a design-forward keynote panel to a deep dive on AI tools, this year's programming reflects where the industry is headed and what brokers need to succeed in it.
The keynote design panel brings together yacht brokers, designers, and builders for a conversation on where yacht design and buyer expectations are heading — a fitting discussion given that this year's conference is hosted at the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, Rhode Island, home to some of the most celebrated yacht designs in American sailing history.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | Full-Day Educational Program
9:00 – 9:30 AM | YBAA President Remarks
William Bolin, CPYB, Managing Broker, S&J Yachts - Florida
Current YBAA President William Bolin opens the day with remarks on the state of the association and the priorities shaping the year ahead.
9:30 – 10:45 AM | Keynote: Design Panel
Jonathan Chapman, CPYB, Managing Partner, Worth Avenue Yachts
Doug Zurn, CPYB, Owner, Zurn Yachts
Jeff Johnstone, President, J/Boats Inc.
Three of our industry's most recognized names in brokerage, design, and building come together to explore how new build trends are reshaping the market and what today's buyers are looking for. Held steps from the Herreshoff collection, this conversation promises to be as inspiring as its setting.
10:45 – 11:00 AM | Break
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | State of the Industry Report
Andy Miles, CPYB, Miles Yacht Group
Jason Dunbar, Vessels Value Survey
Courtney Chalmers, Chief Brand & Communications Officer, Boats Group
A data-driven look at where the yacht brokerage market stands and where it's heading. Industry leaders share the latest market intelligence and open the floor for discussion on the trends, challenges, and opportunities defining 2026.
12:00 – 1:30 PM | Lunch Break
1:30 – 2:30 PM | What Brokers Need to Know to Master a Survey
Tim Murphy, Education Director, ABYC
Surveys are a critical part of every transaction and a source of frequent questions for brokers. ABYC's Education Director Tim Murphy breaks down what brokers need to understand about the survey process, how to set client expectations, and how to navigate survey results with confidence.
2:30 – 2:45 PM | Break
2:45 – 3:45 PM | Legal Review: Tariffs and Record Retention
Eugene Samarin, Lochner Law Firm
The legal landscape for yacht brokers continues to evolve. Attorney Eugene Samarin of Lochner Law Firm covers two pressing topics: the impact of tariffs on yacht transactions and best practices for record retention.
3:45 – 4:45 PM | AI Optimization Panel
Liz Walz, Director of Learning Vision & Impact, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
Garrett Schwartz
AI is already changing how brokers work, from listings and marketing to client communications and business operations. This panel explores practical tools and strategies brokers can put to work immediately, as well as the bigger picture of how AI is reshaping the industry.
5:00 – 6:30 PM | Evening Reception & Awards Program
Dedicated Service Award
Chairman's Award
Cap off the day with colleagues at the evening reception, followed by the presentation of the Dedicated Service Award and Chairman's Award, honoring the individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to YBAA and the yacht brokerage profession.
This year's sessions cover the breadth of what brokers are navigating right now — market intelligence, legal exposure, technical expertise, and the emerging role of AI in daily operations. The day concludes with the Evening Reception & Awards Program, recognizing industry excellence through the Dedicated Service Award and Chairman's Award.
Full registration details and additional program information are available at the YBAA University event page. Mark your calendar for July 15 and stay tuned for updates.