Marcel Amann

Navigating Global Opportunities, Giving Back to The Bahamas

Marcel Amann has always been drawn to the sea. However, he never imagined that his love for the ocean and a boost from Lyford Cay Foundations would take him around the world.

Born in New Providence, Marcel spent his early years in Germany, his father’s homeland. But it was his time on Bahamian shores that gave him clues to his career calling.

“Dad and I were always on the boat fishing and going to the beaches. The love of the ocean was always there,” explained Marcel. “At first, I wanted to be a chef like Dad, but summer breaks working in the restaurant quickly taught me that wasn’t what I wanted. I started looking for other options.”

While in high school in The Bahamas, research led Marcel to the idea of marine engineering – a career that could combine working with his hands, travel and, of course, the ocean. With the help of a Lyford Cay Foundations scholarship, Marcel obtained a Bachelor of Science in Marine Technology from California Maritime Academy.

Marcel’s excelled in his first experience engineering tugboats in Freeport. Soon he was the senior engineer in charge of the extensive fleet.

Since then, Marcel has been on an accelerated path of success sailing around the world as a chief engineer and licenced captain for various types of vessels. In fact, Marcel is only the third Bahamian to ever hold the second marine engineer licence!

           “I’ve probably traveled to 40 different countries. It’s been amazing! The only continent I haven’t been to yet is Antarctica,” Marcel marveled.

Now after 10 years on the seas, Marcel is back in The Bahamas running his own company, Yacht Services Bahamas, Ltd., and eager to give back.

“I make time to teach Bahamas Maritime Cadets and that’s been a joy. I just created the first draft of the engineering curriculum for the Grade 11 and 12 engineering cadets” shared Marcel. “It’s been wonderful to spark their interest in marine engineering.”

Reflecting on how he’s been able to thrive, Marcel shared, “It’s because of my parents that I have an insatiable hunger for success and a drive to give back.”

Marcel also credits the Foundations for playing a role in his life.

“Many Bahamians have big dreams and want to do want to do big things. For me that was made possible by donors.  It’s been an incredible ride, and I’d like to thank Lyford Cay Foundations for that.”