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. 

Dustin's extensive expertise and industry connections are invaluable to the most discerning yachting enthusiasts. With over twenty years of experience, he has served as a yacht manager, refit and project manager, and captain for luxurious motor and sailing yachts.

Dustin's passion for the ocean began in the Southeast United States, growing stronger after moving to Florida. His adventures took him across the Atlantic to the south of Ireland, where he worked at the Royal Cork Yacht Club. After returning to the Caribbean, Dustin captained various vessels, including a 65’ schooner where he met his wife, who became his chef and mate on yachts they operated together for over a decade.

As a 200T US Coast Guard captain and MCA Yacht Master, Dustin has captained yachts from Maine through the Panama Canal to the Pacific Northwest, where he now lives with his family. His deep knowledge of power and sailing yachts, along with his ABYC and NMEA certifications, ensures that his clients receive the best advice and ongoing support.

When he's not helping clients, Dustin enjoys mountain biking, paddleboarding, crabbing, skiing, and embracing the outdoors with his family.

 From an early age, she developed a passion for the ocean that has carried her through an impressive maritime career.

Erica’s extensive experience as crew on adventure yachts has taken her from the Hawaiian Islands to Southeast Alaska and the Baja Peninsula, where she honed her maritime skills. Most recently, she spent time working on charter vessels in the Caribbean. Her in-depth knowledge of these diverse regions makes her an valuable resource for those looking to explore these waters and beyond

Beyond her professional achievements, Erica enjoys racing sailboats, discovering new dive spots, and surfing along the West Coast. Her enthusiasm for the ocean is matched by her eagerness to share her maritime knowledge and create lasting memories for her clients.

Excited for new adventures, Erica looks forward to sharing her maritime expertise and passion for the sea with you on the purchase of your own boat or at your next charter destination.

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.

Raised in Chicago, George cultivated passion for boating on Lake Michigan, where he actively participated in charters and competitively raced both keel and non-keel boats throughout his youth. His dedication to excellence led him to the University of California, Berkeley, where he became a standout athlete, securing titles as a PAC-12 and IRA National Champion rower and triumphing at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta.

In 2016, George enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served with honor on a West Coast SEAL Team. As the Communications and Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) lead, he played a pivotal role in missions deployed to the Middle East, demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical expertise. Unfortunately, an injury in 2023 necessitated his honorable separation from the Navy.

Settling in Mill Valley, California, George Northern California life by offering specialized programs at Wing and Barrel Ranch, where he shares his extensive skills in outdoor activities. He is passionate about skiing, fishing, hunting, and diving, enjoying the diverse adventures that the Bay Area has to offer. At Oaksmith Yachts, George leverages his vast experience and unwavering commitment to help clients find their dreamboats and create unforgettable maritime adventures. His unique background and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the Oaksmith Yachts team, ensuring exceptional service and memorable experiences for all clients.

Oaksmith Yachts

A passion for nautical adventure