Robert Shepherd

About Robert

Robert Shepherd is a senior luxury yacht broker at Edmiston, specialising in both yacht sales and charter. With over two decades of experience in the superyacht industry, he brings a broad, global perspective shaped by time spent both on board and in brokerage. Since joining Edmiston in 2008, he has worked across international markets, advising clients on acquisitions, sales and complex charter programmes.

Areas of Expertise

Robert’s expertise spans both sales and charter, underpinned by first-hand operational experience and a deep understanding of global cruising. Working across a wide range of yacht types, he has particular familiarity with Northern European builds, expedition-focused charters and remote cruising itineraries. Having visited over 100 countries and sailed extensively across the world’s oceans, his personal travel experience informs his approach to client advisory, particularly in destinations such as South East Asia, the South Pacific and Papua New Guinea, where exploration, diving and access to less-travelled regions are central to the experience.

• Yacht sales and charter advisory
• Northern European motor yachts
• High-value, multi-week charter programmes
• Global cruising and expedition itineraries
• Client advisory across purchase, charter and lifecycle

Experience in the Superyacht Industry

Robert has worked in yacht brokerage for over 20 years, building on an earlier career on board yachts as a chef and owner’s assistant. This experience gave him direct insight into yacht operations, guest experience and the practical realities of ownership. Prior to joining Edmiston, he spent four years at YCO, further developing his brokerage expertise. Since 2008, he has been part of the Edmiston team in New York, contributing to both sales and charter activity across the business. His experience includes involvement in the sale, interior design and project management of a 60-metre Feadship, later sold through Edmiston in 2010. Over the course of his career, he has completed a range of yacht transactions and arranged approximately 5,000 charter days, spanning vessels from 20 metres to some of the largest yachts available globally.

Approach to Brokerage

Robert’s approach is shaped by practical experience and a global outlook. Having spent significant time on board and travelled extensively, he brings a detailed understanding of how yachts are used and what clients expect from both ownership and charter. He adapts his focus to each client, whether advising on a purchase, structuring a charter or planning extended itineraries. His emphasis is on delivering experiences that go beyond standard cruising, with a particular interest in exploration and access to less-travelled regions.