Welcome to Salty Bender. Utilizing a deep-rooted background in college-level mechanical engineering and automated manufacturing, USCG Master Captaincy, and specialized ABYC technician training, I deliver a highly technical and consultative approach to cruising yachts both sail and power (specializing in sailboats), structured yacht management, certified TeekTrue synthetic teak decking installations, and precision marine systems service.
Nickals Bender is a USCG Captain, ABYC Marine Technician, and BoatHowTo certified systems expert. While sometimes maintaining or upgrading powerboats, my absolute true specialization is all things sailboats. I possess the high-end technical expertise to deliver meticulous problem-solving, not just repairs.
Modern vessels are complex digital entities. Utilizing a background in college level mechanical engineering and advanced ABYC marine technician training, I specialize in isolating complex faults, optimizing NMEA 2000 networks, and integrating sophisticated systems (solar, Victron energy). If it's problematic, I can diagnose and correct it.
Operating under David Messina and Professional Yacht Sales International, I bring my entire Captain and ABYC technical background to brokerage. While my true passion is sailboats, I possess the technical expertise to represent and evaluate both sailboats and powerboats. I am a technical consultant, not a pushy salesman. Your decision is informed by hard data and systems analysis.
Deep, lifelong passion for sailboats. Expertise in auxiliary sailing systems, cruising yachts, coastal/offshore configurations, and technical evaluations.
Buyer and seller representation backed by an actual technical systems evaluation before surveyor review. I know the boats I list or inspect.
Clear Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) briefs and informed systems-based advice. Mobile-friendly interactive listings.
Bring the high-end look of traditional teak to your sailboat or power yacht without the grueling maintenance. I am a certified installer for **TeekTrue** synthetic teak decking (teektrue.com). We template perfectly to cockpits, swim platforms, and side decks. Partnering with Smitty’s Marine Woodworking for pristine results. Enjoy modern performance with classic maritime aesthetics.
Running a busy consultative yacht brokerage (Professional Yacht Sales International) and delivering complex marine technical services gives me unparalleled visibility into vessel logistics and owner requirements. I leverage a unique background in college-level automated manufacturing to deliver structured, proactive yacht management. My custom-engineered maintenance programs ensure your yacht is safe, reliable, and turn-key when you need it.
