For Mercer Island yacht broker Ari Sheer, the spirit of exploration began at seven years old—and it’s still charting his course today.
Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Ari Sheer’s love of the water came naturally. He grew up racing dinghies and ocean yachts along the Australian coast, developing a fierce passion for the sea and a hunger for adventure. By his teens, he had already claimed back-to-back Australian National Sailing Titles and spent summers teaching sailing on Maine’s Belgrade Lakes.
That early momentum led him to pursue a degree in Nautical Science at the University of Tasmania. From there, he launched into nearly a decade of life aboard: captaining and crewing luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, New Orleans, and Alaska. One of Ari’s most special experiences boating the world was in the San Blas Islands In Panama, “It was like stepping into another world,” he recalls. “Crystal water, white sand, and locals paddling dugout canoes carved from single trees.”
Today, Ari lives on Mercer Island with his wife—who grew up on the island—and their three young children. When they’re not out boating on Lake Washington or Puget Sound, they’re exploring local trails or loading up for dinner on the water. “They’ve definitely got my sea legs,” he laughs.
Settling on dry land didn’t mean the end of Ari’s maritime career. Quite the opposite—it simply evolved. As a yacht broker with Denison Yacht, Ari now helps others begin their own journeys at sea. With nearly a decade in yacht sales and over 4,000 feet of boats sold, his expertise spans from 30’ cruisers and trawlers to 300’+ superyachts.
“Whether it’s a starter boat or a dream yacht, I help clients find the right vessel—and then support them long after the sale,” he says.
From offering advice on upgrades and maintenance to finding the right charter opportunities, Ari’s support is always anchored in personal experience. He’s also a proud member of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron and remains active on the water locally.
For Ari, exploration isn’t just about crossing oceans. It’s about staying curious, sharing adventures, and helping others experience the magic of life afloat.
His compass has always pointed the same way: Explore.
Boating Tips from Ari Sheer: Explore Mercer Island by Water
Whether you’re a first-time boater or a seasoned skipper, Ari Sheer shares his insider advice for making the most of Mercer Island’s unique location on the water.
1. Start Small, Start Now
You don’t need a massive yacht to get on the water. Join a local boat club like Freedom Boat Club or Carefree Boat Club—both offer affordable, flexible access to a variety of boats. “It’s a great way to learn and explore without the full commitment of ownership,” Ari says.
2. Use What’s on Your Doorstep
Some of the best cruising grounds in the Pacific Northwest are just a day trip away. Favorites include:
- Blake Island for picnicking and hiking
- Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge for a scenic moorage and lunch ashore
- San Juan Islands for longer weekend getaways
3. Plan Dinner by Boat
“You don’t always have to go far,” Ari says. “Some of our favorite nights are just taking the boat to dinner.” Dock-and-dine options are plentiful on Lake Washington and Lake Union—Daniel’s Broiler, Chandler’s Cove, or Ivar’s Salmon House are local gems with guest moorage.
4. Prep for All Weather
Northwest weather can change quickly. Ari recommends packing layers, a dry bag with essentials, and keeping an eye on wind forecasts—especially in the shoulder seasons. “Even in summer, evenings on the lake can get chilly.”
5. Teach Your Kids Early
“We live on an island—strong swimmers are a must,” says Ari. He had his kids in swim lessons early and now brings them on family boating trips regularly. “It builds confidence and makes every outing more fun.”
6. Call a Broker Before You Buy
Thinking of buying a boat? “Talk to someone who’s lived it,” says Ari. A yacht broker can help match you with the right vessel, handle inspections, and even advise on moorage options around Mercer Island and the Sound.
“Some of the best parts of the world,” Ari Sheer says, “are right on our doorstep.”