Florida Yacht Service Provider Sues Vessel Owner After Failure to Pay for Extensive Repairs and Maintenance
Yacht Management South Florida, Inc., a corporation based in Fort Lauderdale, has filed a maritime lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against the M/Y Laura Ashley and its owner, Daniel McNutt. The legal action, filed under Case No. 26-cv-60003, seeks to foreclose on a maritime lien and recover damages for a breach of contract involving a 2021 54-foot Aquila Motor Yacht. The plaintiff alleges that despite providing high-quality labor and materials, the vessel owner has failed to compensate them for the services rendered.
Yacht Management Company Seeks Foreclosure of Maritime Lien for Necessaries Provided to Aquila Motor Yacht
The dispute began following a written maritime contract entered into on October 14, 2025, between Yacht Management and Daniel McNutt. According to the complaint, the agreement was for the provision of various necessaries, including extensive repairs, routine maintenance, and storage services for the M/Y Laura Ashley. The plaintiff asserts that they fulfilled their obligations under the contract by providing valuable services and materials that were useful to the vessel and provided on its credit. These services were allegedly authorized by the owner or an authorized representative. Despite the completion of the work and the delivery of monthly invoices, the plaintiff claims the defendants have not paid the outstanding balance.
Lawsuit Alleges Breach of Maritime Contract and Failure to Pay for Yacht Repairs and Storage Services
The complaint highlights that Yacht Management provided services at a reasonable price and maintained a high standard of quality throughout the duration of the project. The plaintiff alleges that Daniel McNutt is personally bound by the terms and conditions of the maritime contract. Under the agreement, the defendant was required to make payments upon receipt of invoices. However, the lawsuit states that McNutt has rejected multiple requests for payment, leading to a material breach of the contract. This breach has allegedly resulted in financial damages for the yacht management firm, which is now seeking the full amount due plus interest and legal costs.
Plaintiff Records Maritime Lien with United States Coast Guard Following Nonpayment for Vessel Improvements
In an effort to secure the debt, Yacht Management recorded a maritime lien for necessaries with the U.S. Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center on December 10, 2025. The plaintiff asserts that pursuant to federal maritime law, specifically 46 U.S.C. Section 31342, they possess a valid lien on the M/Y Laura Ashley in the amount of $22,547.33. The lawsuit asks the court to recognize this lien and order the foreclosure, which would involve the arrest and sale of the vessel to satisfy the outstanding debt. The plaintiff has also requested permission to bid the amount of its lien at a potential auction of the motor yacht.
Recovery of Attorneys Fees and Costs Sought in Federal Maritime Litigation Against Florida Resident
Beyond the principal amount owed for repairs and storage, Yacht Management is seeking the recovery of prejudgment interest and the costs associated with filing the lawsuit. The complaint points out that the defendant is subject to the jurisdiction of the Southern District of Florida not only because the vessel is located there but also due to a forum selection clause within the signed maritime contract. Furthermore, the plaintiff alleges that McNutt is obligated to pay all reasonable attorneys fees incurred by the firm in connection with this collection action. The lawsuit serves as a formal demand for judgment against the owner for the total sum of damages and related legal expenses.
Contact a Maritime Lien and Yacht Contract Lawyer Today if You Face Unpaid Invoices for Vessel Services
Marine service providers and yacht management companies that have provided labor, materials, or storage to a vessel and remain unpaid may be entitled to assert a maritime lien under federal law. Protecting your rights in a maritime contract dispute requires a deep understanding of admiralty jurisdiction and the specific procedures for vessel arrest and lien foreclosure. If your company is struggling to collect payment for necessaries provided to a motor yacht or commercial vessel, contact our team of experienced maritime attorneys today. We can help you navigate the complexities of maritime litigation and work toward recovering the compensation you are owed.
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Disclaimer: Our firm does not represent the plaintiff in this case and is not involved in the litigation. The information provided is a summary of allegations based on publicly available court filings. We make no representations about the truth of these allegations, are not commenting on the merits of the case, and are not predicting any outcome.
