Women in Yachting – Part 35: Julie Turbide, Cape Yachts

As the yachting industry continues to grow, more and more women are making a significant impact on this traditionally male-dominated space. Here, YATCO takes the time to get to know some of these women – from all areas of the market – and highlight the important work that they contribute to the industry.

Julie Turbide is the Marketing and Events Director at Cape Yachts.

What drew you to the yachting world?

The world of yachting was completely unfamiliar to me. I had spent countless days of my childhood by the ocean and enjoyed spending time in marinas on my uncle’s center console with my cousin, but the concept of “yachting” seemed beyond my grasp. What I could immediately connect with was the allure of life out on the water. That was something I could truly connect with. 

How did you get your start in yachting?

When the COVID pandemic began in 2020, almost half of the employees at my previous company were furloughed. Deep down, I knew that being a Brand Manager for a large retailer wasn’t my long-term calling.

So, when I received that initial gut-wrenching email about losing my job during such an uncertain time, it was the push I needed to envision a new direction for my career.

Soon after, I came across a position at Cape Yachts on their Marketing Team. Despite my lack of experience in the yachting industry, I decided to take the leap and apply.

What are some challenges you face and how do you overcome them?

Organizing VIP events and participating in local and international shows has been the most rewarding part of my job, but they do come with challenges.

The first step to overcoming them is to accept that there will likely be a roadblock that is not of my own doing.

When obstacles do arise, I’m able to focus on the parts of the process in my control and the roadblock does get worked out in due course with some creative thinking. I’m fortunate to be backed by amazing team members within Cape Yachts and South Wharf Marina, with whom I reach out to for support.

If there’s a delay on a boat delivery due to the manufacturer or weather, the team always rises to the occasion to ensure the boat gets there and is show-ready.   

What advice would you give to someone who is starting in the yachting industry?

Having ventured into various industries, the yachting industry stands out as truly distinct. As a newcomer, I walked into it with a different perspective. My advice is to come prepared to roll up your sleeves and leverage your expertise from other industries, as it can be surprisingly applicable. Developing a resilient mindset is also highly advantageous as it doesn’t hurt to have thick skin.

What is the most rewarding/enjoyable element of your job? 

What I find most rewarding is being able to see how the marketing, sales, and service teams all play a role in ensuring our guests’ experience is top notch.

There is nothing more satisfying than warmly welcoming families on their new boat in our marina.

What is your favorite thing about working in the yacht market? 

There is never a dull moment, and the individuals you encounter, from clients to colleagues, are anything but ordinary. Each person has a fascinating story, and as someone who prefers the comfort of a computer screen, I am amazed at the incredible people I have had the opportunity to meet from all corners of the United States and the world. If it weren’t for this exciting journey in the yachting industry, I would have never crossed paths with them!

What are you currently working on and what keeps you motivated? 

As of this year, I have become a more integrated part of the sales team at Cape Yachts. Every day is an opportunity to learn something from them and provide support wherever I can. I’m motivated by my team’s tenacity to chart our course and I see the worth of what we do daily along with the potential to grow for decades to come.