Employee Spotlight – Marquetta Sullivan
Behind every unforgettable sailing experience is a team of dedicated individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes. At Waypoints Yacht Charters, our reputation for immaculate vessels and exceptional guest experiences owes much to this committed crew.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Marquetta Sullivan, the cleaning crew leader at our Annapolis base whose meticulous standards and decades of marine industry experience ensure that every charter begins with perfection.
How did you first get started working on yachts, and what brought you to Waypoints?
I first started working on boats about 30 years ago when my husband worked for a new boat yacht company located at Liberty Marina. They needed someone for cleaning contracts, and I stepped in. My journey with what eventually became Waypoints began about 16 years ago through an unexpected opportunity. I was initially hired just to clean the windows at Bay Yacht Agency.
While I was working on the windows, I started talking with the owners at that time, Erica and Douglas, about boat cleaning. This was in November, and they suggested I come back in March about working on the new and charter boats. I was hired and have been with this company through many changes, including when Chris Bent bought it, and here I am today.
What does a typical turnaround day look like for you?
Mondays are usually my busiest days due to weekend charters returning, but we also have boats coming back every other day of the week as well.
Is there a part of this job you enjoy the most?
I love working on boats because I’m outside most of the day. It’s a great atmosphere here, and I love all the people I work with.
How long does it usually take to fully clean and prep a yacht after a charter?
It all depends on the length of the charter. A yacht that has been out for one or two weeks takes considerably longer than a boat that’s been out for just a few days. It can take up to two hours, or as little as one hour with a few people working together.
What’s the most challenging part of getting a boat ready – and how do you tackle it?
It’s all challenging, but with my awesome crew, everyone has their specific job, and we all work as a fine-tuned machine.
Any secret tips or cleaning hacks you swear by?
I only use quality supplies on all the boats. I’ve learned a lot by trial and error and through extensive research on what to use on certain areas of the boats. If I told you all my secret techniques, they wouldn’t be secret anymore!
What do you take the most pride in when getting a boat ready for a new guest?
My crew is very well trained and efficient. We take pride in every aspect of the boat. It has to be perfect every time!
Do you have a favorite yacht in the Waypoints fleet to work on? Why?
Not really, but I prefer to work on the catamarans only because the beds are easier to make. Every boat is important.
Any favorite or memorable stories from your time working with Waypoints that you’d like to share?
I love the bridal parties, the birthday celebrations—any fun event that gets chartered is always enjoyable to see them take off and come back. It’s fun for my crew also. As you can imagine, I’ve seen a lot of these celebrations in my many years here.
If you could charter one of the yachts for a dream trip, where would you go and who would you bring?
Probably to Florida, and I would bring my family. That would be a different family vacation experience for sure!
What do you want guests to know about the work that goes into getting a boat ready for their adventure?
Every boat that we clean, I set a high standard of cleanliness that I do not allow to be compromised. We are there to make sure you have everything you need once you leave the docks, with no disappointment regarding cleanliness and supplies.
What does it mean to play a part in helping people spend time on the water?
It’s always a great joy to see people climb on a boat and know they are going to have a great stress-free charter. It’s especially rewarding when you get to meet the charter customers before and after, and they compliment us on how great the boat looks. That is the best feeling!
The Waypoints Difference
At Waypoints Yacht Charters, we understand that extraordinary experiences begin with impeccable preparation. Marquetta and her dedicated team represent the heart of our commitment to excellence—ensuring that from the moment you step aboard, every detail has been addressed with professional care and attention.
As you plan your next sailing adventure from our Annapolis base, remember that your perfect getaway begins long before you cast off from the dock. Contact our Waypoints Yacht Charter Specialists today to experience firsthand the difference that Marquetta and our entire team’s dedication brings to your time on the water.