Client Testimonials

Ed Whiteaker, 
Owner of Whiteaker Yacht Sales

A message from Ed Whiteaker

"I've always believed it is more important to make a friend than to make a dollar. If you treat people right, success will follow. We hope you enjoy these comments from some of our many satisfied customers."

Devin and Liz Taylor

"The search for a new boat started before we sold our previous boat. During this process we contacted Ed Whiteaker for viewing an IP 380 in Clearwater and later an IP45 in Palmetto that Ed had on the market. Ed was very professional about the whole process and was truly interested in helping us understand the IP range and what to expect from each boat.

After our previous boat had sold, we immediately contacted Ed & Debbie as we had decided on an Island Packet for our next boat and felt we would benefit greatly from a knowledgeable Island Packet broker. The Whiteakers did not let us down. They communicated with us on a regular basis over the several months we searched and continually took care of details on what was selling and the market rates. They always made us feel like they were working for us even when some of the potential boats were their listings. They were and are intent on finding you the right boat and not just selling a boat for a quick commission.

We sailed our new boat home from North Carolina to St Petersburg for over 1,000 miles and everything Ed told us about owning an Island Packet is true, we are in love with our new boat. She is sea kindly even with 25 knots of headwind under squalls and given a fair wind abaft the beam at 10.1 knots SOG she really does fly."

Dauphin Miller & Jodi Olson

"Purchasing our very first sailing yacht was a wonderful experience for us. Ed and Debbie Whiteaker with Whiteaker Yacht Sales made our dreams come true.

Jody & I had heard all the sells pitches from the Northern New England to Key West Florida such as:

It's not a buyers market!
Must place deposit right now or it will not be here tomorrow!
Two other potential buyers are looking right now BUT! We could buy before them if…
It's the best deal in the whole USA!

We encountered all kinds of super-slick manipulative yacht salesman who tried to move in for the kill and capitalize on our lack of experience.

Ed Whiteaker could not have been more different. We found Ed to be a true professional with a sense of ethics.

Ed & Debbie made the whole process manageable, educational, and in fact, great fun. Both of the Whiteakers were attentive and responsive. At all times, we had the sense that our best interest was their primary concern.

Their help did not stop when the deal was closed. Ed & Debbie spent a tremendous amount of time coaching us on handling the paper work, helping us find a marina, getting us well informed and comfortable with the various complex systems aboard and shepherding us through commissioning and outfitting.

Today finds us simply over the moon with our Island Packet 45. Thanks to Ed & Debbie Whiteaker, she is everything we hoped for and more. Now the real fun begins!

Last but not least, we have made friends for life with the Whiteakers!"

"I can't shout out loud enough to everyone out there how happy I am in turning to Ed Whiteaker as the man to sell my boat. The bottom line is I wanted to sell and he got it done in breathtaking speed given the difficult market in which we currently find ourselves from real estate to cars to boats.

Ed and Debbie put out a fantastic ad presenting my IP370 to the world but hardly stopped there. They seemed to always be coming up with new marketing ideas; from flying a banner over the St. Pete Sailboat show to getting a full page spread in Cruising World as boat of the month.

Ed stands out as the consummate southern gentleman who treats both sides fairly while moving the process along with expertise. Selling a boat like an Island Packet does take someone who really understands the fine points well as the buyer is naturally going to be someone discriminating who is seeking a high level of quality.

Ed has a strong presence in the magazines, on the web and the listing services as "the" Island Packet expert. He knows right away the best way to go with your boat in pricing and marketing and he's a straight shooter who does what he says he's going to do. Selling a yacht has gotten to be a complicated process, I learned. Communication is critical and we talked and emailed each other regularly about all the necessaries to docking, maintenance, pricing, offers and contract. I can't imagine there could be anybody around better than Ed to take you through it.

Thanks loads guys for gittin' it done so quick!!"

"Just a note to say thank you for all you did to make the sale of Adventure happen. I cannot thank you enough. I will surely be singing your praises here in the New Orleans area and among my Island Packet friends around the country. I hope I can drum up some new business for you as a way to really express my appreciation."
Tom Grace, Seller
Island Packet 38, Adventure
New Orleans, Louisana

"My husband and I bought an Island Packet from Ed and Debbie Whiteaker almost two years ago. It was a very comfortable and flawless business experience of honesty and the highest integrity. They are helpful, thoughtful and mainly interested in their client's satisfaction.

Ed and Debbie continue to be a terrific resource in the boating world, always available to help if needed.

Happy Sailing!"
Gail and Frank
s/v Gail C
IP445-24

Walt and Suzan Fuhrmann

"Suzan and I sold everything, bought an Island Packet and headed out to the Caribbean. After eight years of great experiences, we returned to the US to move to the next step of our lives, and sell our boat. We received e-mails from brokers offering their services, and also interviewed a few. One of these interviews was Ed and Debbie Whiteaker. We immediately felt comfortable with them, and were impressed with their demeanor as well as their experience and background."

"The Whiteakers did not let us down. They communicated with us on a regular basis, and continually took care of details. They always made us feel like they were looking after us, and not just selling our boat for a quick commission. While keeping the boat at a marina, we also noted that the employees had nothing but good things to say about them as well. During the day long survey, Ed was there, assisting in any way he could. The purchase was made to a Canadian couple, and Debbie professionally handled the international transfers of money."

"We would highly recommend them to any boat buyer or seller without hesitation."
Walt and Suzan Fuhrmann,
formerly of COPOUT, an Island Packet 38.

Steve & Susan Walke

"If it weren't for Whiteaker Yacht Sales, I am confident I would not be in the position I am now…boat sold and preparing for retirement. Thanks again for all of your help! You were truly professional and extremely easy to work with!"
Steve Walke
Island Packet 44 – "Hide Away"

Bill Thompson,
Buyer of 1989 Gozzard

"It was a pleasure doing business with you guys. I know several brokers and I have purchased and sold two other boats. You are by far the most professional, cordial, and helpful of all the brokers I know! Hopefully our paths will cross in the future."
Bill Thompson,
Buyer of 1989 Gozzard

"Carolyn and I would like to thank you for the wonderful and professional help you provided us in the sale of our boat. Everything from the initial contact, survey, and through the paperwork was handled without any surprises or unknowns. You truly are professional brokers."
Dennis Furton,
Seller of 1989 Gozzard

John and Julie Rahm

"Ed and Debbie Whiteaker helped us find the Island Packet yacht of our dreams for a terrific price and then made everything about the transaction easy and convenient. From contract to closing, the survey, repairs, and delivery were completed on time and very professionally by the vendors they recommended. Ed and Debbie's service did not end when the transaction closed. They continue to lend us their knowledge and support. We are raving fans of Ed and Debbie Whiteaker and recommend them to anyone looking for their dream sailboat!

With Ed and Debbie as our brokers, we have a lifetime of support. It's not just about the sale or purchase. We have no doubt that we can call Ed or Debbie ten years from now and they will solve any problem we have with our boat. The Whiteakers bring a lifetime commitment of service and friendship.

Ed and Debbie have an outstanding relationship with the Island Packet factory. With Ed and Debbie as our brokers, we became a part of that relationship.

Ed and Debbie have worked in the sailing business for years and are dedicated to the sailing industry. Often, brokers sailed as a hobby, retired from an unrelated occupation and are selling boats to pay their green fees. Not so with Ed and Debbie. They are two experts who are well connected throughout the entire industry. Need a liferaft? Talk to the Whiteakers. Need davits? Talk to the Whiteakers. Have an issue with a boat dealership? Talk to the Whiteakers. They’ve "been there, done that" and always know somebody "there".

If these words are not enough to sway you, please contact us and hear it from us first hand."

Darrell and Beth Beaty

"We had listed Asherah with another broker for about 7 months, but after reading the glowing reviews on Whiteaker Yacht Sales, which is owned by Debbie and Ed Whiteaker, we decided to switch brokers. Ed had the listing for just about a month before he had her sold. Every week Debbie would send us a report with how many views (hits) she had on Yacht World and Boat Trader. Ed or Debbie would call or email me with info on who was showing the boat and any comments that the prospective buyers would make. To make a long story short, absolutely impeccable service from an absolutely fantastic couple. It was a pleasure working with Ed and Debbie and I would highly reccomend them to anyone selling their vessel. You will not be disappointed!"

Sandy & Ann Coleman
and Buck

"After less than two short two months our Island Packet 420, Windwalker, was sold by Whiteaker Yacht Sales. We were totally impressed with Whiteaker Yacht Sales. We wondered if it was wise to leave Windwalker docked in North Carolina and use a Florida broker. Ed met us in NC and assured us the distance would be handled and it was. Ed and Debbie were with us supporting us from beginning to end.
 
We hear so many people talk about their brokers not doing much. That was certainly not the case for us. Using his marketing background, Ed was creative and active in marketing Windwalker. He is an excellent communicator keeping us regularly informed with progress and the results of the advertising. Ed and Debbie were always available. We can't thank them enough for the professional job they did.

We've known Ed and Debbie for years. They are sincere, determined, and reliable. It's refreshing to deal with people who are so "service oriented". As very satisfied customers, we highly recommend Whiteaker Yacht Sales!"
Sandy and Ann Coleman and Buck

Dr. Michael & Larraine Tiberii

"I had to write to tell you how thrilled I am with your service. It is so nice to see the proof in the pudding."
Lorraine Tiberii


"I purchased my Island Packet 420 from Ed Whiteaker. I had been dealing with Ed sporadically for about three years. He took all the time necessary to answer all my questions, took time from his busy schedule to show my wife and I boats we were interested in seeing, and never once did we feel we were an imposition. He truly was a gentleman throughout this entire process."
Dr. Michael Tiberii

The Gladneys

"We just returned from spending 4 days on Destiny. The trip was great and each time we spend time on our boat we find it more difficult to return to the real world that is our life for the next 6½ months. We are counting the days (and sometimes moments) until the time arrives when we can sail off into the sunset to fulfill our life dream of sailing around the world. And thanks to you, we have the perfect sailing yacht with which to do this. Hopefully you are feeling the positive karma we send your way every time we set foot on our boat because without you none of this would be possible.

Time and time again, we are amazed and thrilled that you found this wonderful vessel for us. We had given you such challenging criteria that we felt as long as you could get fairly close to our requirements we would be content. Well, you not only delivered on your promise to find us what we were looking for in a boat, you outdid yourselves and our expectations. In the fast pace world of today it is very rare to receive the personal, and attentive service that you and Debbie provided to us. Without your knowledge and guidance, none of this would have been possible. Ed, your talent for diplomacy and grace under pressure are traits we all strive to possess. Debbie, your attention to detail and dedicated work ethic are just what we needed. The two of you together make a great team and we are certain your business will thrive and prosper as a result. We value the relationship this endeavor has forged between us all, and look forward to having you sail with us.

As we move on to the vast reaches of the globe we will always remember you and will never miss an opportunity to tell others how you helped to make it all possible. You are always welcome on our boat and in our hearts, so don't work so hard that you can't come join us from time to time. Good luck and much success to you both."
The Gladneys
"Destiny"

Trisha & William Hayes

"It has been our great fortune to have had Ed and Debbie there to assist us every step of the way in the purchase of Imagine, our 37’ sailing vessel. In fact, they made the process easy and so much fun that we didn’t hesitate when we decided to go a little bigger and buy our 46’ Island Packet, Aventura. With Ed and Debbie taking care of all the details, we felt truly pampered throughout the process."

"We highly recommend Ed and Debbie to everyone. You will get exceptional service from the very best sales team in the business and become friends with a truly great couple."
Trisha & William Hayes

Bob & Margo Lopenske

"Ed, we truly are indebted to you for all your guidance, assistance and patience in helping us buy the boat of, and for, our dreams."
Bob & Margo Lopenske




"Wow, what service from Ed Whiteaker"
Donald J Hagan MD

Mark and Kari Kirkley

"Thank you very much for such a thorough answer, which means you took the time to do the research and consulted the proper source. You are good!"
Mark Kirkley

"Great that you have been doing so well in the brokerage business. Actually who wouldn't buy a boat from you? Honest, fair, upstanding, man of commitment…there's no end to the good things anyone would say about you, Ed!"
Russ Boley – Owner of Captain Sir, Island Packet 440

Mickey Finch and Linda Esper

"It has been a pleasure working with you two again. Thanks for making this purchase so easy."
Mickey Finch & Linda Esper
(Purchasers of an Island Packet 40 and an Island Packet 420 through the Whiteakers)

Doug and Marty Smith

Thank you for helping us arrive at the price point we finalized. You certainly looked out for our interests. We paid a fair price and not one that would leave us unhappy as we ultimately discovered various items in need of repair or replacement. We are so thankful for all of your help and attention during as well as after our boat purchase!

We want to tell you how much we have enjoyed our boat-buying relationship with you, we now hope we can extend that into the future and stay connected with you as friends.

Doug & Marty Smith
Island Packet 38 "Almost Heaven"

Mike Grilli and Ellie

"One of the reasons I like doing business with you is that you are a professional...you do it right!"
Mike Grilli


"Ed Whiteaker was very helpful finding us the right boat and helping with all the details of the purchase and follow up."
Drew Sunstein

"Were we happy with the performance of Whiteaker Yacht Sales? You bet.
Did Ed live up to his belief "that it is more important to make a friend than to make a dollar"? You bet.
Would we recommend Whiteaker Yacht Sales to others? You bet. In fact they would be the only one we would recommend. (Yes, we have dealt with other yacht brokers.)
Ed & Debbie are a class act and thoroughly professional."
Corky & Nancy Swert
Island Packet 32 "Overeasy"

Roy and Mary Stegall

"This is just a short note to say "Thank You" for all of your help in getting Mary and I launched in our new lives as live aboards on an Island Packet yacht. We've dreamed and talked about this for twenty years. With an early retirement offer, it seemed the time was finally right. Now it's amazing that with your help, it's come true! You helped us find the right boat, provided professional advice to protect our interests, and carefully supported us through the process of negotiation and closing. I've come to respect that no one knows the Island Packet community better than you! Again, many, many thanks for all of your help!" Roy Stegall

"We wanted to say thanks for all you have done for us. This was a big step for us and you made it so easy. You have inspired us with your stories of cruising and given us countless bits of useable info. You have been terrific!

God Bless you."
Mary Stegall
"Gideon" Island Packet 38