Rod Rowan CPYB
Rod joined Crusader in its infancy in 1984 and has witnessed many changes since then. Sailing for over 40 years, he has cruised and raced extensively on the Chesapeake and offshore. His diligence as well as his business and boating experience inspire the trust of his many loyal clients who often refer their friends and family members to him. Many “industry insiders” have chosen Rod as their Yacht Broker over the years.
Active for many years with YBAA, the Yacht Brokers Association of America www.ybaa.org, Rod was appointed to its Board of Directors in 2003, has served as Chair of its Professional Education Committee since 2005 and was elected Treasurer early in 2008. As testimony to his ongoing interest in professionalism in the industry, he was recognized last summer by YBAA for his work in producing “The Guide,” www.ybaa.org the Yacht Brokerage Industry’s first ever training manual for professional practices. He has also been instrumental over the years in other YBAA projects including many revisions of YBAA’s standard purchase and listing forms, in use throughout the Yacht Brokerage industry. With this background, Rod often finds himself advising less experienced brokers when they have problems.
Rod has two college age “children,” who both (occasionally) work at Crusader and enjoy sailing (and some mountaineering!) with their dad. He holds a BA from Johns Hopkins and an MBA with honors from George Mason University.
Testimonials
“Once again Crusader has come through for us. The sale of our first boat was handled in a timely and professional manner. How could you possibly top that experience. Rod Rowan was the answer.When it became time for us to sell our second boat, a PCS 40, Rod Rowan guided us through the maze of issues quickly and most professionally. With his expertise, we were able to list, market, sell and close, in less than two months. We actually had a buyer within three weeks of listing.
Rod’s inter-personal skills were at work bringing seller and buyer together in what may well prove to be a lasting relationship. They actually offered us the limited use of “our” (their) new boat while they summer in Maine. Rod was also quick to grasp our possible need for a “future” boat. He began immediately to inquire about our desires and tastes. He is truly a great asset for Crusader.
Nancy, you have a great product in Pacific Seacraft and a great organization to back you up.” - George & Judy Weckel “SEA BONDS”
“Rod recently helped me purchase an out-of-state boat. Rod’s contacts throughout the industry and his absolute prfessionalism made my purchase a pleasure.Often buyers contact the out of state broker and work through them directly. Having Rod represent my interests was invaluable.” - David Marchand
“World-class Pacific Seacraft sailboats’ are difficult to resist. They are beautiful and great performers. Making this unique purchase can be exciting, however keeping on track is most important. Rod kept me appraised during the whole process; his patience, practical advice and willingness to explain best options or scenarios were mostly appreciated.What’s more, his aftercare client support is outstanding; from insurance to registration to bilge pumps to windlass, he always knows in which directions to point to get the best. It has been and still is a wonderful journey.” - Suzanne Pelland (seller and buyer)
“When I decided to sell my Whitby 42, the best decision I made was to deal with Crusader Yachts. I got excellent advice from Rod Rowan and once the boat was listed I had a buyer within a month. Dave van den Arend, the buyer’s representative was equally professional and the entire experience far exceeded my expectation. It was actually fun! The new owner and I are becoming friends-a tribute to the professionals at Crusader Yachts.” - Tom Schwark
“We arrived at our home port around noon on Sunday. We sailed for about 4 hrs in 10 – 15 knots and motored the last 3, typical for Lake Ontario. The boat performed well.
True to the saying docking is an adventure the gear shift refused to go into neutral at the dock and we played tug of war with the Yanmar but managed to wrestle the lines onto cleats no damage done. Never blame the skipper.
The boat arrived in great shape in Wilson. Andrews did a great job trucking it and the riggers did a good job packing the rig.
Thanks for the gift and your help over the last 4 weeks. We enjoyed doing business with you and we will pass along the good word. It was a good experience and we really pleased with KIBO.” - Penny, Molly, Jamie and Chris
“Once again you and your fine organization have come through for Judy and I. And, once again Rod Rowan was at the forefront shepparding the purchase of a new (used) boat for us. The logistics of this purchase were difficult; however, Rod was on top of it all the way. Great job!” - George & Judy Weckel, M/V “SEA BONDS”