Celebrating More Than Six Decades of NMTA Membership
Irwin Yacht Sales has been a member of NMTA since 1974 and is the longest continuously operating yacht and boat brokerage in the Pacific Northwest. Founded by Jim Irwin more than 60 years ago, today the company is owned by Matt Maynard, who established the Seattle office in 2006 and acquired the brokerage in 2013. We recently caught up with Matt to learn more.
What would you most like NMTA members to know about Irwin Yacht Sales?
Our people are our greatest strength. Our brokers average more than 25 years of industry experience, and most have been with the company for at least 14 years. We’ve represented many respected brands over the years, including Ocean Alexander, Tollycraft, Sea Ray, and Carver.
We’ve also maintained a strong commitment to industry leadership. Jim Irwin served as president of NMTA, and today our brokers continue that tradition by serving as presidents and board members of the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association (NYBA).
How has Irwin Yacht Sales evolved over the years?
We’ve had a front-row seat to many of the industry changes. We sold boats during the transition from wood to fiberglass construction, participated in the rise of Taiwanese yacht manufacturing, and helped develop the successful Ocean Alexander 420 and 440 Aft Cabin Motor Yachts.
We’ve also embraced technology. Irwin Yacht Sales was one of the founding brokerage clients of YachtWorld, recognizing early on how online tools could better connect buyers and sellers.
What do you value most about NMTA membership?
The communication and advocacy NMTA provides are invaluable. The Association keeps members informed about issues affecting boating at both the local and national levels. The market data, research, and legislative advocacy help us better understand industry trends and serve our clients more effectively.
Any favorite Seattle Boat Show memories?
As dog lovers, we especially enjoyed the show’s “Dogs on Deck” day. With our two office mascots—Wilson and Ollie—often greeting visitors, it was fun to see so many four-legged boating enthusiasts at the show. And, of course, who doesn’t love the Seattle Boat Show jingle?
Anything else you’d like to share?
Although Jim Irwin passed away in 2018, his legacy remains a daily part of our business. We are proud to carry that legacy forward, proud to be active NMTA members, and proud to continue serving boaters throughout the Pacific Northwest and across the country for generations to come.
Thank you Matt and team for your longstanding support of NMTA and your continued contributions to the Pacific Northwest marine industry!