The sea has always been a place of adventure, freedom and challenge – and for women in the marine industry, it’s an opportunity to chart their own course. And at the Town of Palm Beach Marina, women are making waves in every sense. From captains confidently navigating massive vessels to innovators designing cutting-edge yachts, women aren’t just breaking barriers, they’re redefining the very future of the traditionally male-dominated maritime world. Whether behind the helm or behind the desk, the ocean is a space where vision, skill, and leadership have no gender – only passion.
The recent transformation of the Palm Beach Marina was spearheaded by some powerhouse women. Town Council President Bobbie Lindsay is often credited with the vision of rebuilding the Marina while maintaining Palm Beach’s distinctive charm. She, alongside Mayor Danielle Moore and Deputy Town Manager of Business Enterprise and Culture Carolyn Stone, played pivotal roles in bringing the Marina’s 2021 renovation to life. The $40 million face-lift turned the facility into a modern, sustainable superyacht marina in South Florida and now boasts Bellingham concrete floating docks, upgraded security and lighting, expanded shore power and Mediterranean-inspired buildings that seamlessly blend innovation with tradition. “The marine industry is about resilience, creativity and a love of the water,” says Stone. “It’s thrilling to see women rise to the top in all areas of the industry.” With each passing year, these women are redefining what success looks like, inspiring others to rise, take the wheel and show up as their most powerful selves.
Another groundbreaking female force at the Marina is Palm Beach resident Jaclyn Botti, owner of the eponymous yacht Botti and a major donor to the Marina renovation in 2021. She played a pivotal role in creating this state-of-the-art yacht, overseeing its custom build from the ground up at the Moonen Shipyard in the Netherlands. “I love being out on the water with the elements; it’s freeing and exhilarating,” said Botti. “The two-year journey of designing Botti was an extraordinary challenge, but one that allowed me to push the boundaries.” The stunning vessel is a true testament to Jaclyn's passion and vision for luxury design. Her commitment to excellence and her impeccable attention to detail have set new standards in yacht design, making Botti a symbol of innovation, elegance and refined craftsmanship in the yachting world.
At the Town of Palm Beach Marina, women like Office Manager Morgan Springer, ensure the daily operations of this superyacht facility run like clockwork. She’s the force that keeps everything in motion. Morgan’s meticulous attention to detail and hands-on approach ensures everything from handling bookings to customer service, everything goes off without a hitch. “It’s not just about getting things done,” says Morgan. “It’s about creating an experience for boaters that reflects the passion we have for the water and for this community.” Her dedication is vital to the Marina’s smooth operation and success – and proof that women are integral to the world of marinas and yachts.
Captain Kelly Gordon, who runs a fleet of boats out of the Town of Palm Beach Marina, is also trailblazing in the yachting industry. A former chemistry professor, Kelly is now a mentor and influential figure, advocating for crew mental health and inspiring the next generation of female yacht captains. Her journey from a farm in Indiana to commanding a superyacht epitomizes the limitless potential for women in the marine industry. “I often get asked what it's like being a female captain in a male-dominated industry, and to be honest with you, I think it all comes down to mindset,” says Gordon. “Being a female in this industry has been nothing short of amazing.” It’s about taking the wheel – literally and figuratively – and leading with purpose.
The presence of women in the marine industry has been growing, and it’s clear they’re making a splash in every role, from captains to administrators, engineers and beyond. As we celebrate International Women's Day this month, the Town of Palm Beach Marina is proud to support these incredible women who help drive us forward. Their leadership and success are a reminder that no dream is too big, no challenge too great, and no tide too strong to overcome. Their impact will ripple across the waters for years to come.
The Palm Beach Marina is currently taking slip reservations. For more details, visit www.TownofPalmBeachMarina.com or call 561-838-5463.
