James Shaw

With a lifelong love of boating and a career built around understanding what makes boats run, James Shaw brings a unique combination of technical knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to yacht brokerage. Originally from Youngsville, Louisiana, James grew up on the water, developing an appreciation for boating that would eventually shape his professional life.

After studying marine mechanics at Universal Technical Institute, James gained valuable hands-on experience working with boat dealerships and marine service facilities before founding Coastal Tech, a mobile marine service company serving the Emerald Coast, in 2022. His experience with marine engines, electronics, maintenance, and onboard systems gives him a practical understanding of boats that goes well beyond their appearance. Whether evaluating a vessel’s condition or helping a client understand potential maintenance needs, James enjoys sharing his knowledge and helping others feel confident in their decisions.

For James, buying or selling a boat is about more than the transaction. He believes the experience should be exciting, straightforward, and built on trust. Known for his strong work ethic, honesty, and willingness to go the extra mile, James takes pride in treating each client’s investment with the same care he would his own. His goal is simple: to make the process enjoyable, provide honest guidance, and build relationships that last long after the sale.

A Destin resident for eight years, James has been married to his high school sweetheart since 2016. Together, they’re raising four boys and two dogs, so life at home is rarely quiet. Between soccer games, baseball practices, and family adventures, James enjoys traveling and making the most of weekends on the water. Some of his favorite days are spent exploring Okaloosa Island, Norriego Point, and Shell Island with family and friends—finding a place to drop anchor, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life along the Emerald Coast.