In 2022, BR Marine Group Yacht Sales and Charter was founded under the leadership of Brendan Roney, a former superyacht captain, chief-officer and yacht broker with previous experience at Camper & Nicholsons and IYC. This new and unique brokerage firm offers a comprehensive suite of services with a focus on yacht sales, and charter arrangements. 
BR Marine Group distinguishes itself through its exclusive team of former superyacht crew members. This distinctive composition brings invaluable industry knowledge gained through years of practical experience aboard superyachts. It equips them with unparalleled expertise in vessel handling, making BR Marine Group a leading authority capable of providing exceptional advice on yacht purchase and sales. The team's collective background in the industry ensures that clients receive impartial and well-informed guidance.
SuperYacht Times had the opportunity to meet with Brendan Roney, founder of BR Marine Group, and experienced superyacht captain and international yacht broker Ken Bracewell at the Monaco Yacht Show. They welcomed us onboard the 47.1-metre Feadship superyacht Berilda. Delivered in 2001, she features exterior and naval architecture by De Voogt Naval Architects and interior design by John Munford Design. 
As we explored Berilda, Brendan and Ken highlighted the remarkable outcomes of her recent comprehensive refit, which included a full repaint, a sundeck remodel, rejuvenated guest bathrooms, and the installation of an entirely new entertainment and lighting system. 
Stepping into Berilda's main saloon, we were embraced by an atmosphere of sophistication. The room's timeless interior aesthetic, characterised by the pairing of blue furnishings with mahogany wall panelling, created a captivating ambiance. Seated comfortably on the sofa, with Brendan and Ken occupying armchairs in front, the setting evoked the charm of a social gathering in an English country manor house.
The conversation took an intriguing turn as Brendan and Ken shared the remarkable story of their long-standing friendship, rooted in Brendan's five-year tenure as Ken's chief officer, which began in 2005. They had previously worked together on the 44.2-meter NQEA yacht Rena, a vessel now featured in their Central Agency (CA) listing. This inclusion not only showcases their professionalism but also underscores their capabilities to cultivate trust with yacht owners, instilling the confidence necessary for the sale of such a vessel. Another yacht in their CA is the 34-metre Westport superyacht Spirit.
Brendan's entry into the superyacht sector began with little prior knowledge about boats. When a college friend suggested a summer excursion to Newport, Rhode Island, to work in the sale of day charters. This marked his initial foray into the marine industry, as Brendan highlights, “I began essentially from the ground up, armed with minimal industry knowledge in my early twenties. This was in 1998, and I willingly worked without compensation for several months to acquire experience and secure a position aboard a superyacht.”
As our conversation progressed, Brendan emphasised BR Marine Group’s distinction is deeply rooted in the extensive firsthand experience of numerous team members who have worked aboard vessels worldwide. This profound experience equips BR Marine Group with an intimate understanding of the intricacies of the crew, the dynamics of the owners, and the unique challenges inherent in this industry. “What unequivocally sets us apart is our unyielding commitment to transforming possibilities into tangible outcomes for our valued clients. With the right resources and an adequate time frame, we firmly believe that anything can be achieved, and we leave no stone unturned in making it a reality.”
Ken further elaborated on this point, drawing from their shared background as captains of substantial yachts. He emphasised, “our success in this field hinges on our adeptness at striking a delicate balance among all stakeholders involved. We place a premium on our ability to actively listen and deeply understand. We attentively heed the desires of our buyers, the requisites of our sellers, and the invaluable insights offered by the crew regarding the capabilities of the vessels. Our approach is comprehensively holistic, ensuring that every facet is meticulously considered, resulting in an outcome that benefits all parties engaged in the process.”
As the conversation unfolded, it became evident that the warm friendship between Brendan and Ken was indicative of BR Marine Group’s client-focused approach. Their close bond serves as a compelling example of the company’s dedication to building authentic relationships and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, where clients are not merely customers but valued individuals within the world of superyachts.
Transitioning from a full-time role on superyachts to running a brokerage company brought its unique set of challenges for Brendan and Ken as Brendan highlighted, “Now, I find myself handling the marketing department, sometimes collaborating with freelancers, but often taking on tasks myself. We’re crafting CA proposals and sitting at our computers in unconventional places. It’s a grassroots effort, starting from scratch, competing with industry giants that have large teams. We’re doing what we can with the resources at hand”.
Integrity is a cornerstone of BR Marine Group’s approach. Their commitment to transparency involves always providing potential owners with accurate information to facilitate their purchase. As Ken further emphasised, “this principle extends to how we operate and have behaved throughout our careers, whether it's teaching upcoming captains and officers to do everything with dedication or conducting our business and operating yachts with unwavering integrity”.
As interest in Berilda continues to grow, BR Marine Group is strategically planning for future developments. The company is not only seeking expansion in yacht management and new-build consultation but is also committed to maintaining and increasing their CA listings.