A Brief History IYBA


Founded in 1987,

the International Yacht Brokers Association was established to unite those professionals engaged in the practice of buying and selling yachts in the state of Florida.

Today,

IYBA is a statewide association which has grown into one of the world's largest organizations of yacht brokers with over 1450 members, including associations and affiliates of the marine industry at large.

CORNERSTONES MILESTONES

CORNERSTONES

Education

The IYBA provides educational seminars and services to its members to strengthen the ability of our industry to remain abreast of legal, technical, and environmental issues that affect the marine community throughout the state.

Legislation

As an advocate of one of the Sunshine State's largest industry (the marine industry), the IYBA serves as a united voice for yacht brokers in the legislative and regulatory processes. By actively engaging with state and local legislators, the IYBA's lobbying efforts have protected and nurtured the health of the yachting community since its inception.

Professionalism

Along with professional oversight, IYBA joined the Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA) in funding and establishing the Certified Professional Yacht Broker (CPYB) program. For a complete list of our Code of Ethics we invite you to go to our By-Laws, Article XV.

Networking

The IYBA provides many opportunities to network through our social and professional events and seminars. Our publication, COMPASS, is an informative magazine updating our members 8 times a year with articles on legislation and maritime law, Member News, and Bulletin Board.

MILESTONES

1965

The Florida Yacht and Ship Broker's Act was enacted by state legislators providing for licensure of yacht and ship brokers. This law remained in effect until it was automatically repealed on July 1, 1978, pursuant to the Sunset Act.

1986

Legislation is filed and passed by the House and Senate providing for the registration and licensure of yacht brokerage; however the bill died in the last day of session. Abuse in the deregulated industry is commonplace.

1987

IYBA is founded by a coalition of yacht brokerage business owners in South Florida.

1988

A group of brokers travelled to Tallahassee with the goal of restoring regulation to the industry. On October 1, 1988, new law becomes effective to restore licensure of brokers and salespersons in the marine industry.

1990

Yacht and Brokerage Show moves to its current annual location on Collins Avenue.

1992

Joint Ownership of Yacht and Brokerage Show is formalized with Show Management / Yachting Promotions is formalized in July 1992.

1996

Inaugural Yacht Sales & the Law Seminar held at Northern Trust Bank with 108 people in attendance.

1999

CPYB Program formed as a joint effort of the Yacht Brokers Association of America (YBAA, Annapolis, MD), the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA, Ft. Lauderdale, FL) California Yacht Brokers Associate, Ontario Yacht Brokers Association and the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association (NYBA, Seattle, WA).

2000

Yacht Council formed as the premier MLS site for the yacht brokerage industry.

2004

IYBA Charter Professionals Committee formed to promote a high standard of professionalism among those involved in the charter industry and to provide continuing educational programs.

Inaugural Second Wednesday Charter Brokers Open House held.

2005

Inagural Listing to Closing & the Law Seminar held with 197 people in attendance

2008

13th Annual Yacht Sales & the Law Seminar held with 198 people in attendance.

2009

Our 90-day removal affidavit was considered for repeal. The IYBA and the MIASF together showed legislators that not only was the provision a huge success, but we also suggested that if 90 days was good, 180 days is better. As a result, an additional 90-day extension of removal was added, allowing boats to stay in Florida up to 180 days tax-free after purchase.

2010

On July 1, 2010, the Sales and Use Tax Cap was capped at $18k maximum which was approved with the lobbying efforts of the IYBA and the MIASF.

2011

The IYBA succeeded in stopping certain Florida legislators from repealing the Yacht & Ship Brokers Act maintaining the consumer protections and professionalism it ensures.