Meet the Team: Lukas Stratmann

In the first instalment of our Meet the Team series, Ocean Independence speak to Yacht Broker Lukas Stratmann. Originally joining Ocean Independence Palma office in 2018, Lukas recently re-joined the team after some time working in yacht sales at German shipyard Abeking & Rasmussen.

When did you first fall in love with yachting/ What is your history with yachting?
I have always been connected with yachting. My parents used to have a small sailing yacht and we spent all our free time on board from a very young age. I started sailing in an Optimist at the age of eight and never looked back. 

How did you get into the industry and what inspired you to become a sales broker?
After my time in the German navy I studied yacht manufacturing and production in Southampton. Additionally, I completed a Yachtmaster Ocean course in the Solent and shortly after gaining a degree went on my first Atlantic crossing to work in the yachting industry. Brokerage perfectly combines my engineering knowledge with the practical aspects of being a Captain. 

What is your favourite part of your job and what aspects of your work challenge you the most?
My favourite part is the diversity of our job. You need to have an excellent knowledge of the yachts and the market, but also provide accurate and intelligent advice on legal, financial and administrative matters relating to yacht ownership.  

What is your favourite yacht? 
Personally, I love the Nordic Folkboat, it’s one of my favourite type of yachts. But my favourite superyacht has to be the J-Class ENDEAVOUR, she is just an icon of the seas. 

What trends do you currently see emerging in yacht sales? How do you see the yachting industry evolving post-pandemic?
It does feel that, for the first time in many years, the market is changing into a seller’s market. Additionally, the digital transition relating to marketing and sales is developing much faster, which is fantastic to see. 

Can you tell us something about yourself that others may be surprised to know about you?
Being from Cologne, Germany, I love carnival and own about 50 costumes to dress up in. Another thing that a lot of people don’t know, is that I did ballet classes from the age of 5 until 12. I was dancing way before Billy Elliot came to the cinemas!

What are the best innovations/coolest features that you have seen in a yacht?
The coolest feature has to be the Neptune Lounge on board Abeking & Rasmussen  ELANDESS. It gives you an amazing view both above and under the water. 

What would be your top tips for someone looking to break into the industry as a sales broker?
There are plenty of opportunities to work in the yachting industry, not just as a broker. But what’s important above all is to work hard, expect to work long hours, be honest, be transparent and always think about who you are working for.

What, in your opinion, are the top three features that buyers look for in a yacht?
Every buyer is different, but commonly now days build quality, stabilisation and low noise and vibrations are very important considerations.  

What is your favourite quote? Do you have a work motto?
“Money can't buy you happiness, but it can buy you a yacht big enough to pull up right alongside it.” ― David Lee Roth