27 September 2017
Full service superyacht brokerage company Ocean Independence has announced they will be expanding into the Asian market with the acquisition of a controlling interest in Seanergy, a Hong Kong-based brokerage business. They will also be welcoming a new team member, Jeremy Comport, who is one of Seanergy’s founding partners.
Established in 1995, Seanergy has recorded over 250 purchases and sales of vessels of all sizes – from local Hong Kong brokerage yachts to those commissioned and imported into Asia. As well as managing new builds and major refits, Seanergy have also overseen the conversion of commercial vessels into expedition yachts.
Peter Hürzeler, Managing Partner of Ocean Independence, said, “we have been monitoring the Asian market for some time and have identified significant sales and purchase potential in the region – particularly in Hong Kong. We have been looking for the right opportunity to extend our presence into this key area and to further strengthen our position in the global superyacht industry, and are delighted to have realised this ambition through the recent purchase of a majority share in Seanergy.”
Clive Smith, another of Seanergy’s founding partners, will remain at the helm with his experienced team, providing local knowledge and a sound base from which the brokerage division can continue to grow. Clive will be supported by Miles Clark, Seanergy’s lead broker, who will be driving the sales focus, and who will benefit from having the platforms, brand profile and global network of Ocean Independence at his disposal.
Jeremy Comport will be responsible for ensuring the continuing growth of Seanergy on the international brokerage market, as well as its integration into the Ocean Independence group.
“Ocean Independence clients will now have easy access to the Asian market, providing extensive opportunity for both sale and purchase,” Jeremy said. “Likewise, buyers in Asia will benefit from full access to the Ocean Independence network of offices, sale and charter brokers, and yacht mangers worldwide. This move, therefore, is a very positive development for all of our clients.”
Founded in 2005, Ocean Independence has approximately 100 employees, operating from 15 offices around the world, speaking 24 different languages. The brokerage is now fully operational in Hong Kong.