David Marlow

David Marlow, Founder of Marlow Yachts and Visionary of the Sea, Remembered (October 21, 1942 – July 13, 2025)

David Marlow, the visionary yachtsman, and founder of Marlow Yachts, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82.

A true pioneer in the world of luxury boatbuilding, David Marlow spent his life shaping not only vessels of extraordinary beauty and performance but also the very standards of modern yachting. Through his company, Marlow Yachts, he brought to life a line of long-range cruising yachts known across the globe for their innovation, craftsmanship, and timeless design.

David’s journey began in Apalachicola, FL, with a deep love of the sea and a relentless drive to do things better. That passion led to a career marked by ingenuity and purpose. Marlow Yachts, founded in the early 2000s, became his signature achievement—a company rooted in bold vision, cutting-edge engineering, and a commitment to quality that will never waver. Each yacht that bears his name reflects his belief that the ocean deserves nothing less than excellence.

More than a businessman, David was a husband, father, and grandfather, a mentor, and an inspiration to all who knew him. He brought people together—through his stories, his adventures, and his unwavering dedication to his craft. His legacy will live on not only in the boats he built,  but in the lives he touched along the way.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Marlow, who shared his journey through decades of innovation, exploration, and accomplishment. He is also survived by his cherished daughter, Kimberly Marlow, whose loving dedication to her son and passion for perfection in her professional life made him extremely proud, his beloved grandson, Aidan Marlow, who brought him immense pride and joy; his devoted brother, John Paul Marlow, who guided and supported David not only in his early years, but throughout life; his nephew and business partner, Michael Cannova, and nieces Paula Reece, Valerie Thompson, and Tammy  Thornton.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal service. A celebration of life will be held at a future date to honor a man who forever changed the way we experience the sea.

To honor David’s memory, please consider a donation to Bradenton Gospel Tabernacle (bradentongospeltabernacle.org), Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC.org), or Tidewell Hospice (Tidewellhospice.org).