Today we’d like to introduce you to Marc DeLoach.
Hi Marc, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started Delmar Charters because I’ve spent most of my life on the water, and I wanted to create something that brought all that experience together in a way that felt personal and meaningful. After years of racing at the national level, delivering yachts offshore, and teaching sailing and powerboating, I realized it was time to build something of my own—something that reflected my values and love for the sea.
Delmar Charters came out of a desire to offer a different kind of charter experience in Charleston. Not the packed party boats or cookie-cutter tours, but something more intimate—where the focus is on quality, connection, and the simple joy of being on the water. I wanted to give people a chance to slow down, disconnect from the noise, and experience the Lowcountry from a fresh perspective.
From the beginning, I’ve kept things small and intentional. We limit our groups to keep the experience personal, and every detail—from the feel of the boat to the flow of the trip—is meant to create an atmosphere of comfort, beauty, and authenticity. For me, it’s not just about sailing—it’s about sharing a lifestyle I love with others.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting Delmar Charters wasn’t easy. I had the maritime experience—years of offshore deliveries, racing, teaching, and running programs—but turning that into a business was a whole different kind of challenge.
At first, I underestimated just how much work it would take behind the scenes. From Coast Guard paperwork and business licenses to insurance, marketing, and figuring out the right pricing model—it was a steep learning curve. I was used to being on the water, not behind a desk, and suddenly I was doing both.
Finding the right boat setup took time too. I knew I wanted to offer something elevated and personal—not just another charter with speakers blasting and a cooler of light beer. I had to figure out how to stand out in a crowded market without straying from my vision. There were moments I questioned if I was doing it right or if anyone would even book a charter that leaned more into authenticity than volume.
And like any small business, there were slow weeks, unexpected costs, and plenty of nights where I was running through ideas instead of sleeping. But every challenge pushed me to get clearer on what I wanted Delmar Charters to be. I didn’t want to build just another charter company—I wanted to build one that reflected everything I’ve learned and loved about life on the water.
Now, looking back, those early struggles are part of what make it all feel worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We’re not your typical charter company—we don’t pack the boat with people or run the same cookie-cutter routes every day. What we do is create thoughtful, handcrafted experiences on the water that reflect a deep love for sailing and the Lowcountry coast.
Whether it’s a romantic sunset sail, a family outing, or a unique private event, our focus is always on creating something memorable, calm, and completely custom. Every charter is captained by a licensed mariner with years of offshore and teaching experience—so you can sit back and enjoy, or take the helm yourself if you want to learn.
But Delmar Charters is more than just charters. We also offer private sailing and powerboat instruction, designed for everyone from total beginners to seasoned mariners brushing up their skills. And when boats need to move, we’re there too—with a solid track record of safe, professional yacht deliveries up and down the East Coast.
What sets us apart is that we’re not in the business of boat rides—we’re in the business of connection. Connection to the water, to each other, and to the quiet moments that stay with you long after the trip ends. Our boat is beautiful, sure, but it’s the atmosphere on board that people remember most: unhurried, welcoming, and real.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
While Delmar Charters started as my vision, I definitely didn’t build it alone. From the beginning, I had the support of a few key people who helped turn the idea into something real.
My parents have been a huge part of that. They’ve supported me every step of the way—not just with encouragement, but with hands-on help, advice, and the kind of steady belief that keeps you going when things get tough. Whether it was helping get the boat ready, talking through the early stages of the business, or just showing up when I needed an extra hand, their support has been absolutely foundational.
John Park has also played a major role as a business mentor throughout this journey. His guidance helped me navigate the business side of things—everything from structuring the company to pricing, branding, and long-term planning. Having someone with that kind of experience in my corner made a massive difference, especially during the early stages when everything felt a bit overwhelming.
Freya Alarcon, our charter manager, has been essential in keeping the day-to-day operations smooth and professional. She handles client communication, logistics, and makes sure every guest experience lives up to the standard we’ve set. Her attention to detail and calm, friendly energy are a huge part of what makes Delmar Charters so special.
I’ve also leaned on friends, mentors, and fellow mariners—people who’ve offered advice, helped with deliveries, or simply shared their knowledge and support when I needed it most. Starting something like this really reinforces how important your community is.
Delmar Charters may be a small operation, but it’s built on a strong foundation of trust, support, and shared passion. And that’s exactly the kind of energy we bring to every charter we run.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.delmarcharterschs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delmar_charters/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Delmarcharterschs/
