Testimonials

“I have owned four cruising boats over the years; two sail, two power. I have spent a good deal of time and worked with many brokers trying to find the right boat for what we needed at the time. I can say without any reservations that working with Richard Evans and his people at Calibre Yachts defines for me what marine brokers ought to be about. The service level was beyond anything I’ve ever experienced. Although it took more than a year (and offers on four boats), Richard’s enthusiasm and steady support never flagged. Moreover, the service didn’t end when the contract was signed. It is ongoing. He doesn’t build client lists; he establishes relationships. I would not remotely consider buying (or selling) a vessel without Richard’s involvement. He is knowledgeable, personable, and above all, operates with the strictest of ethics. I would gladly expand upon these remarks to anyone whom Richard may wish to refer.”

Stuart J. W, QC, 2019

“Richard at Calibre was everything one would wish for at all points in the research and purchase process. His most undeniable trait beyond “really good guy” is his integrity and therefore, the strength of character he demands throughout his company. This was tested in our relationship, and when things happen, what truly matters is how people deal with the situation. Richard was professional in all aspects and did “the right thing.” What defines individuals in this sense is how they react under duress; Richard was composed and clear, transparent and helpful.”

Gordon S, 2020

“Tony was marvellous, not only does he possess considerable boat ownership experience he was also prepared to help me fulfil the normal tasks of survey and sea while remaining in the UK. Tony organised the sail to Sidney for survey, recommended the marina for lift and scrub and returned Puff safely to Oak Bay. John the owner being unable to assist due to infirmity.

I received frequent communication on progress and was introduced to the accountant for transfer of funds, a slow process nowadays due to money laundering regulations. Tony also recognised that my UK domicile status would allow me to purchase Puff without GST being applied. Well done Tony, many thanks.”

David W, 2018

“The generosity, kindness, and most of all, patience shown to us by Richard Evans and his team at Calibre Yachts knew no bounds in the process of buying a boat. We needed the perfect boat for our National Geographic Assignment off the BC coast.

After hundreds of emails, dozens of phone calls and many pick up at the Horseshoe Bay Ferry terminal, Richard held out until we found a beautiful 40′ Tollycraft. I wish that buying other items in my line of work was this much fun. Calibre Yachts showed true integrity and class throughout the entire process. We can’t thank you enough.”

Paul N and Cristina M, 2017

“This story is about: Alex Denny, Calibre Yachts Broker, Maple Bay

A Broker with Integrity – A Broker who went above and beyond – Our Recommendation without Reservation – A Story that needs to be told and Retold.

We have recently purchased a Hunter Legend 35.5 through Calibre Yachts which our Broker, Alex Denny, with his friend, delivered to us in Comox just before Christmas. (What a nice Christmas present).

Throughout the pre-purchase including the survey, mechanical, and sea trials at Maple Bay there was no tender. Only the picture of a tender on deck (tarped but clearly visible) included in one of the Sales pictures. When asked about the tender, the owner said that he had a much better tender for us and in fact would be embarrassed to give us the one in the photo. The “good” one was arriving with his new boat purchase which was, he said, a newer “Walker Bay”. As well, he said his family was from up Island and would deliver said tender to our doorstep. New Year’s Day we messaged the owner, wished him Happy New Year, and inquired about the tender. Whereupon he said, “no problem”. The tender would be delivered to Parksville next week and could we pick it up? “No problem” we thought… Except…

Email sent January 7th: Good afternoon, Alex and XXXX (previous owner) Yesterday afternoon Ken and I drove down to Parksville to pick up the dinghy that was promised us, as part of the agreement that we made to purchase the Hunter 35.5.  As it was dark by the time we got home we didn’t look closely at it until this morning, and when we did, we were extremely disappointed. We understood that the dinghy you were sending us was a fairly new Walker Bay inflatable, but what we have received is a very old, very dirty, and very well used West Marine inflatable;  from the numbers on the transom, it seems to be a 1985 model. In addition to its poor condition, it also has no oars, no pump, no seats, and the  slots where the seats would fit are torn.  There is no possibility that this boat could be used as a reliable tender, and it will probably end up costing us a disposal fee at the landfill. So, we would like to have the dinghy that was shown on the deck of the Hunter in the photos that were used in the Calibre Yacht Sales ad, or something of equal usefulness.

We look forward to hearing from you.

(Note: 2 Oars were subsequently found in stern of Hunter but not usable with this tender)

So to repeat:

This is a story about: Alex Denny, Calibre Yachts, Maple Bay: A Broker with Integrity – A Broker who went above and beyond – Our recommendation without reservation – A Story that needs to be told and Retold.

Without any suitable response from the Previous Owner, Alex, on his own dime, found and purchased a near pristine, used,  West Marine 2.75 inflatable tender with a 4 hp 2 stroke mercury outboard and with wonderful wife Heidi delivered it to our home in Royston.”