Breaking Barriers in the Luxury Yachting Industry
Sharah G. Connor, the COO and managing partner of Mahogany Yacht Charters (MYC), is making waves in the luxury yachting industry. Based in Washington, D.C., Connor co-founded MYC with three other Black women, creating a unique space in a predominantly male and white-dominated field. The company offers luxury yacht charters for private events, special occasions, and unforgettable experiences on the Potomac River.
Connor and her team faced significant challenges early on. “Two of the major struggles we dealt with were getting brokers and salespeople to take us seriously,” she told Voyage Baltimore. “The boating and yachting world tends to be mostly men and very few people of color. Four Black women starting a yacht chartering company in Washington, D.C., was unheard of!” Despite these obstacles, Connor’s determination and the support of her network helped MYC thrive.
A Passion for Boating and Business
Connor’s love for boating began during her summers in Providence, Rhode Island. This passion, combined with her expertise as a general manager at a major real estate investment trust, inspired her to launch MYC in 2020. Alongside her partners—Nicole Boyce (CFO), Tiffany French-Goffe (Chief Administrative Officer), and Natasha Austin (Chief Marketing Officer)—Connor has redefined luxury yachting in D.C.
“Audacity is a very big word for me,” Connor shared with Essence. “You have to have the audacity to make these things happen, especially when faced with nos and obstacles.” Her leadership has been instrumental in positioning MYC as a trailblazer in the industry.
Empowering Women of Color in Yachting
Connor is not just building a business; she’s creating opportunities for women of color in the boating industry. Through mentorship programs and collaborations with organizations like Miss Black USA, she is paving the way for more diversity in a field where women make up only 10% of professionals, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).
“I feel like I carry the reputation of the company on my back,” Connor admitted. “I care so much about the company and making sure we succeed.” Her dedication extends beyond her team, as she actively works to inspire and uplift other Black women in the industry.
Expanding Horizons: From D.C. to the Caribbean
Looking ahead, Connor has ambitious plans for MYC. She envisions expanding the company’s reach to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, bringing her unique brand of luxury yachting to new waters. However, her primary focus remains on delivering exceptional experiences to her clients.
“I want people to walk away from a Mahogany Yacht Charters experience feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired,” Connor said. “Being able to curate a beautiful, relaxing, and memorable experience is what keeps me going.”
A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration
Sharah G. Connor’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of representation. By leading an all-Black women team in a traditionally exclusive industry, she is not only redefining luxury yachting but also inspiring future generations to dream big and break barriers.
