Laura J. Sherrod is a seasoned yacht insurance professional with over 40 years of experience. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Laura grew up immersed in the yachting industry at Merrill-Stevens Shipyard. Now based in Fort Lauderdale, she has worked with some of the most prestigious insurance agencies in the world, specializing in yacht insurance.
Laura has developed comprehensive insurance programs for a wide range of vessels, from small boats and high-performance models to mid-range yachts and superyachts. Her passion for the industry lies in its rich history, the diverse challenges it presents, and the opportunity to help clients achieve their dreams of getting on the water or navigating claims with ease.
With a career that began in her teenage years, Laura has witnessed the evolution of the yachting and insurance industries firsthand. Her wealth of knowledge and dedication to her craft make her a trusted leader in yacht insurance.
What do you do in Yachting?
I am the Director of an international insurance agency, specializing in providing security and coverage for vessels, owners, and crew worldwide. I’m also passionate about boating and believe the best days are spent out on Biscayne Bay, enjoying the water firsthand.
What was your field of study, and where did you pursue your education?
I studied International Business and Finance at the University of Florida and Florida International University (FIU). Additionally, I gained valuable experience as an intern in London, working as a broker at Lloyd's.
How did your career in yachting begin?
My career in yachting began in my childhood, as I was born into a yachting family and grew up surrounded by the industry. I spent my early years working and playing at a shipyard, with boats of all sizes always a part of our life—ranging from 30' sailboats to 110' motor yachts. My first job was as crew for the owner of the Coconut Grove Hotel, who had three boats at Dinner Key: a 65' Hatteras Sportfish, a 52' Gulfstar sailboat, and a 38' Cigarette. I quickly became skilled at bright work. My first boat, an optimist dinghy built by my grandfather, was a memorable experience—though I did sink it when I was 10 (that’s a long story)
Can you share a memorable experience or significant achievement in your yachting career?
One of my most memorable experiences in yachting takes me back to Hurricane Andrew in 1992, as we prepare for Hurricane Milton to hit Florida. At the time, my husband and I lived in South Miami. The storm left us unable to drive due to broken windshields and fallen trees, but we walked to our boss's house and drove downtown to our office to begin processing hurricane claims. The National Guard stopped us on the street, but once we explained we were "insurance agents," they allowed us through. This was the era before cell phones, and we relied solely on landlines to get reports. Despite the chaos, our small team of seven in Florida managed to handle over 300 yacht claims from that powerful storm. I'm incredibly proud of how we supported our clients during that challenging time and worked closely with my team to find solutions.
What current projects or goals are you focused on?
My current goal is to build the best yacht insurance specialty agency in the world. I am focused on creating a top-tier service that offers unmatched expertise, tailored coverage, and exceptional customer support to yacht owners globally.
"I am so proud of Yacht Femme and the Women in Yachting movement. I have been privileged to manage and mentor over 20 women who are still thriving in the yachting industry, whether working as yacht brokers, insurance agents, with insurance companies, charter brokers, or in system development. They are all rock stars!" - Laura Sherrod
Get in touch with Laura
Website: https://www.newcoast.com
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/
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