Ancasta strengthens bluewater expertise with key appointment

Harry Lightfoot © Ancasta Group

Ancasta International Boat Sales has strengthened its position in the bluewater yacht sector with the appointment of offshore sailing specialist Harry Lightfoot as Brokerage Manager of its Hamble office.

Based at Port Hamble Marina, Lightfoot will also assume the role of in-house Brand Manager for Contest Yachts, the premium Dutch builder of luxury bluewater cruising yachts, further reinforcing Ancasta's representation of the brand in the UK.

Lightfoot joins Ancasta with more than ten years' experience in yacht sales, including a strong focus on large, ocean-capable sailing yachts designed for extended offshore cruising and circumnavigation. His background combines commercial expertise with a deep understanding of the technical and practical demands of bluewater sailing.

The appointment reflects Ancasta's strategic focus on expanding specialist knowledge within its sales network, particularly in sectors where owner expectations and technical requirements continue to evolve.

Stuart Brotherton, Head of Sales at Ancasta, comments: "Harry's arrival marks an important step in enhancing our capabilities in the bluewater segment. As the market evolves, clients are seeking more than just solid sales support - they expect insight grounded in real-world experience.

"Harry's track record in offshore yacht sales, combined with his understanding of the nuances of long-distance cruising, perfectly positions him to meet this demand and further elevate our offering."

Lightfoot's appointment further underlines Ancasta's ongoing commitment to supporting offshore sailors and the wider bluewater community through specialist knowledge and technical expertise - a commitment which is reinforced across the wider Ancasta Group. In 2025, Advanced Rigging & Hydraulics was appointed as a preferred supplier to the World Cruising Club - the globally recognised organiser of offshore sailing rallies, including the prestigious ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers).

Together, these developments reflect a coordinated approach to delivering end-to-end support for clients preparing for extended offshore and bluewater cruising.

Lightfoot adds: "Ancasta has built a strong presence within both the UK and international brokerage markets, underpinned by the breadth and quality of the brands it represents. I'm very pleased to be joining a company with such a well-established reputation and experienced team, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success, particularly within the bluewater and offshore cruising sector."

This appointment comes amid sustained demand across Ancasta's portfolio of sail and power brands, with continued growth driving further recruitment across its expanding brokerage network. Additional specialist appointments will be announced in the coming months as the company continues to scale its expertise across key market segments.

For more information on Ancasta visit ancasta.com