About A1 Yacht Sales
A-1
also A1, A-one, “first-rate,” 1837; a figurative use from Lloyd’s of London marine insurance company’s system for selective rating of merchant vessels (“Register of British and Foreign Shipping”), where it is the designation for ships in first-class condition. The letter refers to the condition of the hull of the ship itself, and the number rating to the equipment. Also used in equivalent ratings in U.S., where colloquially it is sometimes expanded to A No. 1.
- Online Etymology Dictionary
About A1 Yachts
A1 Yachts was founded 
on a shared vision: to deliver integrity, transparency, and professionalism in yacht brokerage. Built on decades of brokerage expertise and Olympic-level sailing, the company provides a trusted and seamless experience for clients buying and selling yachts around the world.
A Legacy of Brokerage and Sailing
Alan Adelkind’s professional boating career began in the 1970s when he purchased a yacht dealership on Toronto’s waterfront. Representing world-class brands such as J Boats, Jeanneau, and Nautor Swan, the dealership expanded rapidly over four decades and became one of the most successful of its kind in North America. With a background in business and law, Alan brought a unique perspective to the industry while also balancing a competitive sailing career—training for the Olympics in the Men’s 470 Class and later coaching the Canadian Olympic 470 Team.
A New Generation
Josh Yale, a lifelong sailor, competed at the national, collegiate, and international levels before launching a campaign for the Tokyo Olympics in the Men’s 470 Class. A Queen’s University graduate, Josh combined his passion and experience with the mentorship of longtime family friend Alan Adelkind, bringing together a new generation of brokerage expertise. From that partnership, A1 Yachts was born.
Today
Under Josh’s leadership, A1 Yachts continues to thrive as a full-service brokerage. Whether representing a modern performance yacht, a classic cruiser, or a luxury superyacht—sail or power—Josh approaches every project with the same dedication and precision that defined his sailing career
Beyond brokerage, Josh remains deeply involved in the sport as both a competitive racer and a professional coach with North U, the educational division of North Sails, helping sailors of all levels refine their skills.
At A1 Yachts, the passion for sailing runs deep. That passion drives every transaction, ensuring clients receive unmatched service, expertise, and results.
