Richard Vass
Meet Richard Vass
Senior Leopard Catamaran Broker
British Virgin Islands, Caribbean & Global Cruising Markets
Richard Vass is a Leopard Catamaran broker based in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, with deep roots in one of the world’s most active charter and cruising destinations. With over 27 years living full-time in the British Virgin Islands and more than two decades as a BVI Leopard and Moorings yacht broker (since 2003), Richard is the longest-serving broker in the company globally. He has personally sold over 1,000 yachts, a rare milestone in the brokerage industry and a reflection of both the volume and consistency of his experience.
His combination of industry experience, lifelong sailing background, and on-the-ground presence in the BVI allows him to guide buyers and sellers with a level of insight that goes well beyond listings, helping clients understand condition, history, and real-world usability. Beyond completed sales, Richard has worked with thousands of clients over the years and remains a trusted resource for many long after the transaction is complete.
QUICK FACTS
- Based in Tortola, British Virgin Islands
- RYA Yachtmaster Offshore (Commercially Endorsed)
- Works with clients across the Caribbean and international markets
- Over two decades of experience with Leopard, The Moorings and Sunsail
- Extensive knowledge of ex-charter yachts and fleet operations
- Lifelong sailing background with early exposure to yachts through family
- Specializes in buyer and seller representation for pre-owned Leopard Catamarans
- Works across both sailing and power catamaran models
Proven Experience in the BVI Market
27+ Years in the BVI
Living and working full-time in the world’s leading charter market
1,000+ Yachts Sold
One of the highest transaction volumes in global yacht brokerage
Longest-Serving Moorings Yacht Broker
Serving as a BVI broker since 2003
Based in the Sailing Capital of the World
Richard’s career has been shaped in the British Virgin Islands, one of the busiest sailing and charter hubs in the world. His time working with The Moorings, Sunsail, and Leopard has given him firsthand exposure to fleet operations, yacht maintenance cycles, and the full lifecycle of charter vessels.
That experience provides a major advantage for clients evaluating pre-owned catamarans, particularly those coming out of charter. Richard understands how these boats are used, maintained, and prepared for resale, allowing him to offer clear, experience-based guidance throughout the buying and selling process.
Having lived and worked in the BVI for nearly three decades, he offers clients a level of local knowledge that is difficult to replicate. Having spent more than two decades with The Moorings, Richard has witnessed firsthand the growth of the BVI into the world’s leading sailing destination, a legacy built in large part by The Moorings’ pioneering role in the modern charter industry.
Focused on the Leopard Catamaran Market
At Leopard Brokerage, Richard works exclusively in the Leopard Catamaran market, helping clients evaluate models, ownership history, and overall positioning within the current market. He is particularly well known for his ability to guide buyers through the nuances of ex-charter yachts, offering clarity around condition, upgrades, and long-term usability.
Through Leopard Brokerage, his clients also benefit from access to model-specific insight and technical background tied to Robertson & Caine, providing added confidence when evaluating or listing a yacht.
BVI-Based, Market Advantage
Operating from Tortola places Richard at the center of one of the most active resale markets for Leopard Catamarans. His location allows him to be hands-on with listings, coordinate surveys and sea trials efficiently, and provide real-time insight into available inventory.
He regularly works with international buyers navigating remote transactions, ensuring each step, from initial evaluation through closing, is handled smoothly and professionally.
As part of the broader Leopard Brokerage network, Richard also connects clients with opportunities and support across global markets when needed.
What It's Like to Work With Richard
Whether you’re purchasing your first catamaran or searching for the right opportunity in the ex-charter market, Richard is known for his straightforward guidance, deep product knowledge, and ability to simplify the process. Clients consistently highlight his responsiveness, transparency, and commitment to getting the details right.
For Buyers:
Specializes in helping buyers navigate the ex-charter market with clarity and confidence
Provides firsthand insight into fleet history, usage, and maintenance expectations
Helps match cruising goals to the right Leopard model and ownership type
Guides buyers through each step of the purchase process, including survey, sea trial, and closing
Coordinates with trusted local surveyors, service providers, and documentation agents
Supports remote and international buyers with clear communication and on-the-ground assistance
For Sellers:
Positions listings within the Leopard Brokerage network to attract qualified buyers
Provides pricing guidance based on market conditions and comparable sales
Leverages his BVI location to actively support showings, surveys, and sea trials
Coordinates logistics and third-party services throughout the sales process
Ensures listings are properly represented to reflect condition and market expectations
Supports the full process from listing through closing with consistent communication
What Clients Say About Working With Richard
Richard Vass is excellent at what he does and consistently ensures a smooth, win-win outcome for everyone involved. He understands how to bridge the gaps that can arise between buyer, seller, and broker, making sure each party’s goals are aligned and achieved. I would highly recommend him as a yacht broker.
Richard Vass was a pleasure to work with. From the very beginning, he was helpful and walked us through multiple vessels until we found the right one. After the survey identified a few items that needed attention, he facilitated the repairs and ensured a smooth closing. The boat is everything we wanted.
Recent Transactions
A selection of recent sales closed by Richard Vass:
2022 Leopard 53 PC "tequila sunrise"
2020 Leopard 51 PC "Valeria"
2019 Leopard 50 "Natural mystic iii"
2015 Leopard 51 pc "Just a Splash"
2020 Leopard 45 "Ephinae II"
2013 Leopard 48 pc "second star"
Ready to Talk Catamarans?
Whether you’re actively searching or just beginning to explore the market, Richard is available to help you navigate your options with clarity and confidence. Reach out directly to get started.
richard.vass@mooringsbrokerage.com | +1 284 346 2016