Ben’s life on the water began at age five, participating in an annual fishing season opener in northern Minnesota; he never looked back. On motor boats and yachts throughout his young life, he developed a love for boating. In his teens, an interest for sailing first led to racing dinghies and then learning how to sail and race larger boats.  

He has parlayed that experience to boating on the Pacific, the Caribbean, the Great Lakes, the Gulf of Mexico, countless inland waterways and is currently investigating the Puget Sound on his own boat.

Today Ben Oaksmith is the Principal of Oaksmith Yachts a boutique yacht sales and brokerage firm that specializes in partnering with clients and everyone they care about to achieve elevated experiences on the water. 

Raised on the Mississippi Sound, Michael’s early experiences exploring the bayous and fishing in the Gulf of Mexico sparked a deep love for the water. After serving as an electrician in the Air Force and ending up in Destin, Florida, Michael married his knowledge of tools, and his love of boating sparked his marine industry career as a yacht technician. His expertise led him to San Diego, where he worked as a senior technician, commissioning top-tier yacht brands. Michael’s journey continued in Seattle as a Service Manager for a Yacht Dealership, where he developed a strong connection with the city’s stunning waterways and mountainous backdrop.

Now a Yacht Advisor with Oaksmith Yachts, Michael has made Seattle his home and applies his extensive marine experience to help clients find the ideal yacht. His commitment to the industry extends beyond advising clients; he also shares his knowledge as a local boat instructor, helping and teaching new boaters gain confidence and skills on the water.

When not working, Michael embraces the Pacific Northwest lifestyle. In the summer, he enjoys sailing and wake surfing, making the most of the region’s vibrant boating season. Off the water, he explores alpine lakes and local peaks, and in the winter, he is a frequent visitor to Stevens Pass, chasing snow and enjoying the area's natural beauty.

Oaksmith Yachts

A passion for nautical adventure