Laura Garcia-Bartenfelder is the co-founder of United Island & Yacht, the yacht agency serving superyachts across Florida, the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, which she founded in 2017 alongside partner Joe Dargavage.
Raised in Europe between England and Spain, Laura lived in the Bahamas for 20 years — first building a corporate career on New Providence, then moving to Harbour Island to own and operate a scuba diving centre while raising three daughters. That combination of ocean life and client service became the foundation of United Island & Yacht.
United Island & Yacht
Now based in the USA, Laura has overseen the growth of the agency’s offices in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach and Stuart, and is known for bringing a personable, hands-on service to captains, crew and owners passing through the region. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Association of Bahamas Marinas.
United Island & Yacht:
Visit unitedislandandyacht.com→Frequently asked questions
What is United Island & Yacht?
A yacht agency founded in 2017, supporting superyachts with clearance, provisioning, crew logistics and concierge across Florida, the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, with offices in Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach and Stuart.
What is Laura’s background?
Raised between England and Spain, she spent 20 years in the Bahamas — in the corporate world on New Providence and then running a scuba diving centre on Harbour Island — before co-founding United Island & Yacht.
Is she involved in industry organisations?
Yes — she serves on the Board of Directors of the Association of Bahamas Marinas.