About Martin
I’m Martin Holmes.
A yacht broker in Phuket since 1997. I have been part of Lee Marine since its launch and, since 2018, General Manager for Northrop & Johnson in Asia Pacific. Holmes on Board is how I bring personal service and serious brokerage capability together.
My story
A life around boats
I grew up in Birmingham and learned to sail on the Norfolk Broads, working in the boatyards whenever I could. At 16 I was invited to sail with the Sail Training Association’s Tall Ships, and I have been around boats ever since.
After qualifying as a Commercial Yachtmaster I worked for Sunsail as a sailing instructor and flotilla captain in France, Greece, Turkey and Thailand, with roles across the UK, the Mediterranean and Australia along the way.
Then Thailand. In 1997 I joined Lee Marine at its launch in Phuket, and in my first 20 years in Asia I was involved in hundreds of yacht sales, both brokerage and new construction.
I have built my reputation on straight advice, practical deal-making and a calm, experienced approach that helps clients move with confidence. Whether you are searching for the right yacht, preparing one for sale or planning a charter, you have my number, my attention and my honest view, from the first conversation to the last.
I live in Phuket with my family, and I still spend as much time on the water as I can. My motto: Kindness brings happiness.
Watch my yacht tours on YouTube(opens in a new tab)“When you take time to understand the client’s wants and needs, it becomes a personal mission to service them fully and correctly.”
Particulars
- Based
- Ao Po Grand Marina, Phuket, Thailand
- Roles
- General Manager, Asia Pacific, Northrop & Johnson
- Roles, continued
- Senior Broker, Lee Marine
- In Asian yachting
- Since 1997
- Qualified
- Commercial Yachtmaster
- Speaks
- English
- Local time
- UTC+7
Career
The record, in brief
1997
Lee Marine, Phuket
Joined at the company’s launch, and was its General Manager for many years.
2018
Northrop & Johnson
General Manager for Asia, covering the Thailand and Hong Kong offices.
2022
Asia’s Yachting Leaders
Named in Yacht Style’s annual list of the people shaping yachting in Asia.
Today
Two roles, one person
General Manager, Asia Pacific, at Northrop & Johnson, and a Senior Broker at Lee Marine.
Track record
Recently sold
A few of the yachts I have sold, as announced by Northrop & Johnson. Every sale is different; the care that goes into it isn’t.
| Yacht | Builder and type | Length | Built | Sold | My role |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BIG MAMA: sale announcement | Riviera 78 Motor Yacht | 81 ft 5 in (24.8 m) | 2022 | January 2025 | Seller’s broker |
| FIREBIRD: sale announcement | Palmer Johnson aluminium ketch | 84 ft (25.6 m) | 1966 | January 2025 | Buyer’s and seller’s broker |
| THEA: sale announcement | Kong & Halvorsen motor yacht | 94 ft 2 in (28.7 m) | 1979 | July 2024 | Seller’s broker |
Sources: Northrop & Johnson sale announcements for BIG MAMA (16 January 2025), FIREBIRD (16 January 2025) and THEA (9 July 2024).
See my current listings on Northrop & Johnson(opens in a new tab)Client testimonials
Clear advice, strong follow‑through and results that hold up.
Seamless from the start
“His commitment truly sets him apart. Nothing was too much trouble, questions answered promptly and with ease. Even the unexpected was handled without fuss. His professionalism, warmth and attention to detail meant we were supported and confident in every step. We’re incredibly grateful for Martin’s guidance and recommend him highly to anyone looking to buy a boat with total peace of mind.”
A man of trust
“I enjoyed pertinent reporting of all efforts along with skilful advice on price and the market. I highly recommend using the services of Martin. A man of trust and enjoyable company.”
I would recommend him
“Martin’s character, tenacity, diplomacy and genuine desire to see my classic ketch find a new home were critical and much appreciated. I would recommend him and his team to any boat buyer or seller.”
Cheerful enthusiasm
“It was his extensive knowledge of the industry that most impressed. Martin thinks beyond the box, is diligent and very thorough. Martin well deserved, and earned, a 10/10.”
Superb advice
“Thanks so much for all you did to pull the deal together for me Martin. We had an agreement, but way more than that, your advice was superb. Thank you.”
Next step
Buying, selling or chartering? Let’s talk.
Or just weighing up your options? I’m always happy to have a straightforward, no-pressure conversation. I read every enquiry myself and reply within 24 hours.
Martin Holmes
Phuket, Thailand (UTC+7)
WhatsApp or call +66 81 891 7057