Steve McPherson, a Certified Professional Yacht Broker and President of ACY Yachts Great Lakes is a lifelong sailor. With his father and uncle as pioneers in the competitive sailing world and later successful boat dealership owners, Steve McPherson’s entry into the boating industry was almost predestined. This familial legacy began with a dealership started in New York in 1962, which flourished under their guidance. Steve developed a natural affinity for the water, sailing and yacht racing from a young age on the yachts available through his family’s business. After earning an engineering degree and spending some years in the field, Steve returned to his roots, taking over the family marina and yacht dealership and subsequently expanding it, growing the business to include multiple locations in the US and Canada and representing renowned brands.
For Steve, working with customers is about connecting them with their long-held dreams of yacht ownership. Whether it’s a young professional planning a family adventure on their first sailboat or a retiree looking to cruise gently through the Caribbean, Steve’s lifelong connection to boating and the boating lifestyle shape his ability to guide clients through the intricate journey of yacht ownership. Steve’s unique experience in cross border transactions allows him to provide a professional and seamless yacht purchase experience throughout North America and Europe.
Beyond his professional achievements, Steve has been an integral part of the yachting industry, serving as a board member and President of the Yacht Brokers Association of America as well as a member of numerous industry advisory boards. All as part of striving to further professionalize the boat business. His efforts have helped shape a more structured and professional marketplace. Outside of yachting, Steve maintains an active lifestyle, with interests that include running, rowing and sailing—pursuits that keep him connected to the elements.
Praise from Steve’s Customers
“Steve has been a great resource for us in our sailboat purchase, from helping us to determine the best make and model for our needs, to guiding us through the selection process, and even helping us to pick the best marina slip for our boat. He has shown great professionalism, patience, and care through our whole process, and we would highly recommend him to anyone.”
— Ron and Andi
“We first met Steve at the 2019 US Sailboat Show in Annapolis. It was there we found our dream sailing catamaran, a Fountaine Pajot Elba 45. Fast forward to the Spring of 2021 when we were ready to order our catamaran for a 2024 production spot. A three-year wait seemed a bit crazy, but Steve helped us feel confident in making this decision and we didn’t feel rushed.
Steve took the time to answer our questions, connect us with other Elba owners and really made us feel taken care of – something we hadn’t experienced with other dealers during our search. We continue to be extremely happy working directly with Steve, he is Professional and personable genuinely cares about client satisfaction and establishing a
relationship with his clients.”
— Chris & Kristi Mehling
“Buying a new catamaran was a major life decision for us.
Working with the Steve made the whole process stress free. Steve organized a charter on a sister cat in the Caribbean which enabled us to be sure the Astrea was the right boat for us. Through clarifying options, arranging delivery to Canada, installing aftermarket options and helping with local Dockage and haul out logistics, Steve has been a pleasure to work with.”
— Rhonda & Peter Stevens
