Peter Houghton

Yacht Broker Peter Houghton’s passion for sailing was sparked by his uncle, David Houghton, who was involved with the British Olympic Sailing Team for many years. His good fortune saw him attend a very outdoor-orientated school during his teens, allowing him to pursue this further, excel and make it on to the UK Youth Sailing Team. From there on, sailing became a huge part of his life.

He writes: “From an early age, I enjoyed being out on the water racing anything from dinghies to Farrs, and it was inevitable that my hobby would eventually become a career. After attending Art College and working at Phillips Auctioneers on Bond Street in London, I opened my own antique business in partnership with a friend for a few years. However, it quickly became clear to me that what I really wanted was to pursue my passion on the water.

This brought about a move to the US where I spent the last 30 years as a professional yacht captain and fleet manager of some amazing racing yachts. Having been on the operating end of a wide variety of vessels, I have gained extensive knowledge of both power and sailboats and have overseen many total refits. I’ve held a British Yacht Master’s Certificate as well as a current USCG 100 Ton license. I have thoroughly enjoyed campaigning many of the yachts under my management in numerous regattas from the New York Yacht Club Cruise to the Key West Race Week, the IMS Regatta, the Farr 40 World series and many more. I’ve also been lucky enough to have worked for many high-profile clients over the years, and as a result am well known and respected in sailing and racing circles. Cruising and racing New England, Florida, the Caribs and Chesapeake Bay has been tremendous fun and a great way to earn a living.

It was during my last season as a yacht captain that I met my wife, Jeanie, which brought me to move to New England. Having been close friends with Alan Baines and Jennifer Stewart for many years, I was delighted to make the natural transition from yacht captain to yacht broker and now partner, capitalizing on the hands-on practical expertise gained throughout my career.

Jeanie received her Masters in Business and holds numerous designations having spent over 30 years in the property casualty insurance field. Growing up in New England, she spent time on the water on both power and sailing yachts.

We are delighted to be partners of Berthon USA, helping clients find the perfect yacht to fit their needs. We get particular enjoyment working with couples to find their dream yacht. Working as a team, drawing from each other’s strengths, allows us to bring our energy and enthusiasm to all we do for our clients. When not selling boats or sailing them together, we enjoy spending time climbing in the White Mountains of New Hampshire or visiting family back in Annapolis or over in the UK.”