Meet Michelle Hannemann | Charter Yacht Broker

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

Hi Michelle, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After working as a yacht chef onboard a sail catamaran for several years, I always found interest in becoming a yacht charter broker. Once covid shut down the whole charter industry for over 6 months – I found the perfect window to start my business. I immediately started building a website from scratch and Sheer Yachting was born in April 2020.

What should our readers know about your business?
I consider myself lucky to have launched Sheer Yachting while juggling a full-time job. Building a reputation and client base in this competitive industry doesn’t happen overnight. When Sheer Yachting first set sail, I was still working as a full-time chef, pouring every spare penny into advertising costs. It wasn’t until four years later that my website began to hold its own against the competition, and momentum started to build.

What makes us stand out from other brokers is that we’re not just selling yachts; we’re living and breathing the industry every day. By staying actively involved, talking with crews, and keeping up-to-date with the yachts, our expertise is unmatched. This hands-on approach not only makes the job more thrilling but also ensures that the yachts we match people with exceed all expectations. It’s our version of insurance!

In this industry, beyond the competitive landscape, I’ve discovered that adaptability is paramount. Being flexible and prepared to pivot are essential ingredients for success. As brokers, we’re adept problem solvers, always ready to navigate any unexpected twists along the way.

I want the world to know that Sheer Yachting isn’t just another yacht charter company. We’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences in the Caribbean. Planning a vacation is a really exciting thing, and Our commitment to personalized service, attention to detail, and passion for exceeding expectations will certainly give you that thrill!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Sheer Yachting offers charter boats throughout the Caribbean, but our heaven on earth is The British Virgin Islands. This is a place I know a lot about and I can confidently build an itinerary for any celebration. The best thing about this itinerary is you don’t have to research restaurants and make reservations everyday – your onboard chef will be preparing delicious meals for you all week long.

Day 1
Land in Tortola and head to the Marina to check into the yacht, meet your crew and have lunch while you sail straight to Norman Island. Norman is known for several things; The Willy T – Swimming into caves and Snorkeling The Indians.

First, lets explore the ocean & caves. You will definitely see some sea turtles, colorful reef and occasionally an octopus! Next stop, The Willy T Floating Bar & Restaurant – grab a rum punch at the pirate bar, dance to some music and for the thrill seekers, jump off the back of the boat!

Day 2
Next we have to check out Little Harbor, Peter Island for some serenity. Once you drop anchor here, you will never want to leave. The calm bay is perfecting for swimming, snorkeling and water sports.

Day 3
Let’s go to Cooper Island! Cooper Island a tiny resort island, home to Cooper Island Resort. If you are wanting to have a meal onshore, you have to try the Fish & Chips. After lunch, grab an iced coffee, check out their boutique then hit up the rum bar for some unique small batch rums!

Day 4
Time to check off a bucket list item by visiting The Baths in Virgin Gorda! Your crew will guide you through the rock formations and take some epic Instagram photos for you! After your tour, take a swim at Devil’s Bay or head up to the Top of The
Baths Restaurant & Bar for the best view you will see all week.

Day 5
Explore The North Sound of Virgin Gorda, better known as “Billionaires Playground.” The North Sound is comprised of the North end of Virgin Gorda along with some smaller private islands such as Necker Island, owned by Richard Branson. Stop into Saba Rock – a teeny tiny island with a gorgeous bar & restaurant then pop over to The Bitter End Resort for a walk along the shore.

Day 6
Sail to White Bay Jost Van Dyke – home to the infamous Soggy Dollar Bar. Drop anchor right off the beach and swim into shore – get your dollars soggy! This is where the Painkiller cocktail was mastered, so trying 1 is an absolute must. Hang out in the water, sipping cocktails and meeting new friends!

Day 7
It may be departure day, but there is nothing sad about the beautiful sail back to Tortola. Your crew will prepare a delicious Brunch while you all discuss your favorite parts of the week and share your crazy photos. Take lots of pictures with your crew and don’t forget to sign the guest book!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, my foremost supporter is my husband, Ben. Our journey began in the yachting industry, where we worked as a Captain & Chef team onboard a sail catamaran in the BVI. While we cherished our time working alongside each other, Ben’s encouragement has empowered me to forge my own career path. We both harbor a profound love for yachting; Ben finds his joy in being a Captain, while I find fulfillment in connecting with individuals, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to relish the opulence of a yacht charter.

Website: sheeryachting.com

Instagram: instragram.com/sheeryachting

Linkedin: Michelle Hannemann

Facebook: facebook.com/sheeryachting

Other: tiktok.com/@sheeryachting

Image Credits
Image Credits: Excess Yacht Charters & Yacht C’est La Vie