Meet Doug Tibbs | CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Doug Tibbs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Doug, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
In reflecting on the success of Canvas Yacht Charters, I would say that the most important factor has been our unwavering commitment to add value to our customers experience. We understand that each client has unique preferences, desires, and expectations when it comes to their luxury yacht charter. That’s why we prioritize the art of building trust, taking the time to understand our clients’ needs and dreams. With our deep expertise and extensive network in the yachting industry, we meticulously curate a selection of yachts that meet the highest standards of luxury, comfort, and safety.

Our team of experienced professionals is passionate about crafting unforgettable journeys. We go above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of their charter exceeds their expectations. Whether they seek a tranquil escape to secluded islands, thrilling water sports adventures, or glamorous parties onboard, we have the knowledge and resources to make it happen.

What truly sets us apart is our dedication to client experiences. We believe that a successful yacht charter is not just about providing a vessel; it’s about creating cherished memories that last a lifetime. Our attentive and personalized approach allows us to tailor every detail of their charter, from selecting the perfect yacht to designing bespoke itineraries and arranging exceptional onboard services.

We work closely with a wide range of yacht owners and captains, carefully vetting each vessel and crew to ensure the highest standards of excellence. Out extensive network allows us to offer an extensive selection of yachts, from sleek motor yachts to elegant sailing yachts, in some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

When they choose Canvas Yacht Charters, they can trust that we will be with them every step of the way, providing expert guidance, transparent communication, and unparalleled support. Our commitment to building long-standing relationships with our clients is the cornerstone of our business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Anyone can build a business, however, to build a truly successful business it is often the result of experiencing hardship and failure along the way. I can attest to this as I took a unique approach to starting Canvas Yacht Charters and leading up to it, I certainly had way more lows than highs.

In September 2017 hurricane Irma, a massive category five hurricane, devastated the Virgin Islands. All but an estimated 38% of the yacht charter fleet had been destroyed. It was a tragic event in one of the most beautiful places in the world. In speaking with friends around the world who spent a lot of time in the Caribbean were all talking about visiting to help return tourism and generate income for the locals. Through those discussions, the entrepreneurial spirit in me had an idea of finding a catamaran that had not been damaged in the hurricane and to hire a captain and chef to crew it for charter in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). The demand for people wanting to go down and assist the locals and to revive tourism appeared very high.

By December 2017 I had purchased a 50-foot catamaran and hired a husband-and-wife crew to operate it on our behalf for charter. Based in the BVI, which is the sailing capital of the Caribbean, we wanted to help bring tourism back to the BVI and in a new way.

At the time of starting this yacht charter venture, I had a deep understanding of the aviation charter arena as I was a former professional pilot, aircraft manager, who had bought and sold aircraft over the years. I was, however, new to yachting and all that comes with it. A task that I took on by myself which I do not recommend to anyone.

Looking back, I did almost everything the wrong way which cost me hundreds of thousands of dollars and countless hours of my time not to mention the stress and frustration. That being said, the wealth of knowledge I gained along the way about this industry, the experience clients seek and about how to properly manage a business in the yachting industry was worth all of the pain.

Along with the difficulties of the COVID-19 times, we did have many successes. Our catamaran was awarded the best yacht under 56 feet in a BVI charter yacht society show and we have successfully provided the most amazing vacation experience for hundreds of happy guests.

Through years of managing a yacht in the charter industry and as a serial entrepreneur, I am always looking for new opportunities to add value, particularly in industries that I’m already familiar with. Through frustration, I built Canvas Yacht Charters to disrupt the yacht charter broker community. To bring a white glove level of service to an industry where the clientele demands it. The lost art of communication and transparency needed to be reintroduced along with a strict adherence to ethical and fiduciary responsibilities.

I believe that great businesses start with great people – collaborative, down-to-earth and open to the new who build relationships on trust, consideration, and integrity. I wanted to provide clients with an option to work with a brokerage whose sole focus was to create an experience that goes beyond expectations.

Having just celebrated five years in business, Canvas Yacht Charters has access to over 2,000 yachts around the world and continues to lead the industry in client experiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Here is my must-dos in Miami:

1. Wynwood Arts District – I am always amazed at the incredible artwork and creative abilities people have.

2. Art Deco District Tour – It wouldn’t be Miami without this amazing experience and understanding of how it came to be.

3. Experience Little Havana – Cocktails at Ball & Chain followed by dinner at Terras.

4. Airboat tour of the Everglades – Because why not. If you are going to experience Miami, you have to experience everything it offers.

5. Design District – Such glamour and elegance. I could spend days here.

6. Miami Seaquarium – The penguin encounter is my favorite.

7. South Beach – End the week dancing and relaxing on one of the best beaches in the world.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the never-ending support my wife and children have given me on this incredible journey of building Canvas Yacht Charters.

From the very beginning, they’ve stood by me through the highs and lows, providing a strong foundation of love and belief in my dreams. Their encouragement has been my anchor, and the wind beneath my sails.

To my wife, Heather, your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable. Your belief in my abilities, even when the seas got rough, has given me the courage to navigate uncharted waters and take risks that have propelled us forward.

To my children Kendal and Brecken, you’ve been my cheerleaders, celebrating every milestone and offering your unique perspectives that have enriched our journey. Your enthusiasm has made every success sweeter and every challenge more manageable.

Your sacrifices and understanding during long hours and countless meetings have been the bedrock of our family’s success. Your love has been my refuge, and your smiles have been my motivation.

This journey to building Canvas Yacht Charters has been an incredible adventure, and I couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you. Your faith in me has turned a vision into reality, and I am profoundly grateful for your constant presence in my life.

As we sail into the future, I know that with you by my side, there are no horizons we cannot reach. Thank you for being my lighthouse in the storm, my compass in the fog, and my anchor in the harbor.

Website: www.canvasyachtcharters.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canvasyachtcharters/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CanvasYacht

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canvasyachtcharters

Other: Email: hello@canvasyachtcharters.com