Reflections from Mark Benno
And that’s a wrap on TrawlerFest Fort Lauderdale 2026.
What a show.
This year’s event was especially meaningful for me because it marked my first TrawlerFest attending as part of the JMYS team. Just twelve months ago, my wife Catherine and I were sitting in the audience, absorbing everything we could as we explored the possibility of turning our own “What’s Next” into reality.
Last year we attended sessions with industry experts like Chris Parker, who shared insights on weather forecasting and cruising tools, and Steve Zimmerman, who walked through engine maintenance and the importance of understanding your boat’s systems. Then we got some time at the helm of a Ranger Tug with Bob Arrington as we learned the physics of close quarter maneuvers and docking with currents and wind. We also sat in on Jeff Merrill’s popular presentations on trawler buying strategies, which gave us a clearer understanding of the process and the decisions involved in finding the right boat.
One of the most memorable sessions from that first TrawlerFest was completely unexpected. We attended Dr. Robert Leviton’s hands-on maritime emergency medicine class, where participants practiced splinting, suturing, and learning how to prepare medical supplies for offshore emergencies. One thing became very clear during that class: if Catherine ever has to stitch me up out at sea, I’m in good hands. If the situation were reversed and I had to suture her… well, let’s just say we’d both be in trouble.
A Different Perspective This Year
Returning to TrawlerFest this year felt very different. Catherine and I still attended some of the excellent educational sessions, continuing to learn from presenters like Chris and Alyse Caldwell, who shared practical advice and tips for maintaining and operating a trawler.
But this time, we were also there as part of the JMYS team, meeting prospective buyers and talking with attendees about their own plans for the future.
The conversations we had all week shared a common thread.
People come to TrawlerFest because they have:
- a passion for the water
- a desire for adventure
- and the goal of one day owning a trawler of their own
We recognized that feeling immediately, because just one year ago, we were sitting in those same chairs.
From Audience to Panelists
Another highlight of this year’s event was participating in the “Ask the Experts” panel alongside Jeff Merrill.
It was a unique moment to shift perspectives; from being in the audience last year to sitting on stage this year answering questions. The audience asked thoughtful questions about cruising, buying a boat, and preparing for the trawler lifestyle, including a female’s perspective on cruising and what advice we would offer people who are currently where we were just a year ago.
Our answer was simple: Ask questions. Learn as much as you can. And talk to people who are already living the lifestyle.
TrawlerFest provides a rare opportunity to do exactly that.
Conversations, Connections, and Beautiful Boats
Of course, TrawlerFest isn’t just about seminars and panels.
Throughout the week we had the opportunity to meet incredible people, have engaging conversations, and step aboard some truly beautiful trawlers. Each discussion reminded us why events like this are so valuable; they bring together a community of people who share a passion for cruising and exploration.
Helping You Find Your “What’s Next”
At JMYS, we’re honored to help people navigate the process of finding the right trawler and turning their plans into reality.
Whether you are just beginning to explore the idea of cruising or you’re already deep into the search for the right boat, TrawlerFest is one of the best places to start asking questions and learning what’s possible.
We look forward to continuing these conversations and helping you discover your own “What’s Next.” And who knows, maybe next year you’ll be the one returning to TrawlerFest with a completely new perspective.
For those attendees who participated in Jeff’s Trawler Buying Tips and Trawler Transactions seminars, his handouts and PDF of PowerPoints are available below for you to download for personal your use. Note: These will be posted for 60 days and then removed.
Trawler Buying Tips
Trawler Transactions
Below is a photo gallery from Fort Lauderdale—don’t miss the Dock & Talk video.
Two more Trawlerfests are scheduled for 2026, we hope you can join us.
May 12-16: Trawlefest Anacortes, WA
September 23-27: Trawlerfest Baltimore, MD
