James Tiernan

Yacht Consultant & Flagship Specialist
james.tiernan@acy-yachts.com
+1 832-849-7322

Quick Snapshot

Top-performing Fountaine Pajot specialist in the U.S.
15 years guiding clients through new builds, brokerage, and charter management
Lifelong sailor with competitive experience at European and World levels
Hands-on technical background from working on yachts in Spain
Known for high-touch service, straight talk, and long-term client relationships
Splits time between Annapolis, Flroida, Ireland, and Europe — offering on-the-ground factory and sea-trial support

Full Bio

Raised on the windswept Atlantic shores of Cork, Ireland, James’ love for the sea began early — learning to sail, windsurf, and fish as a boy, and progressing to competitive sailing representing his university and later Ireland in European and world-class regattas. This lifelong connection to the water laid the foundation for a deep understanding of seamanship and the yachting lifestyle.

Growing up in a family-run country home turned B&B taught James the true art of hospitality: personalized service, genuine attentiveness, and respect for every guest. That upbringing shapes how he builds relationships with clients today — not as transactions, but as long-term partnerships rooted in trust and mutual respect.

After gaining technical experience working on yachts in Spain, James relocated to the U.S. in 2014. He quickly ascended within the industry, combining hands-on boat knowledge with sales and marketing acumen. This rare blend of technical insight, strategic thinking, and client-first service makes him uniquely positioned to guide buyers and sellers through every step of the yacht-ownership journey.

James brings a holistic, consultative approach shaped by real time on the water. A lifelong sailor who still actively runs deliveries, tests new models, and teaches clients the fundamentals of safe, confident cruising, he understands what it truly means not just to own a yacht, but to live aboard, operate it offshore, and cruise long-term. Whether advising on new builds from leading shipyards, aligning yacht selections with lifestyle and budget, or managing brokerage listings with a strategic, detail-driven process, James offers clients guidance grounded in experience. His deep knowledge of the Business Yacht Ownership program further helps clients navigate charter placement, tax strategy, and maximizing long-term ownership value.

James and his wife Emily today split their time between Annapolis, Texas, Florida and Ireland, giving him first-hand insight into transatlantic ownership, relocation logistics, cruising lifestyles in multiple regions, and the realities of living and working between different waters. That real-world experience makes him especially valuable to clients navigating international ownership, chartering, or planning long-distance cruising.

James believes every yacht tells a story, and his mission is to help clients find the one that makes theirs unforgettable.

Praise from James’ Customers

“Best customer service I have ever received! James is very professional and knowledgeable. Went above and beyond with our sale process. Thank you James!”
— Nadia Kostov, TX

Featured Videos by James

Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47 Walkthrough by James

Dufour 41 Walkthrough by James

Featured Articles from James

Get to Know ACY

Private Living Isn’t Just for Billionaires — The Liveaboard Life Is the New Accessible “Private Estate”

December 2, 2025

Fountaine Pajot

New Fountaine Pajot 41: One Small Wave for Man, One Giant Tsunami for the Boating Industry

September 16, 2024

Dufour

Why Dufour’s Signature Features Make it Impossible to Resist

April 19, 2023

Featured Listings From James Tiernan

2022 Fountaine Pajot Aura 51

Amajen
Price: $1,349,999

2022 Fountaine Pajot Tanna 47

Ithaka
Price: $849,000

				
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