The editors at Mad Mariner are proud to announce that Diane Byrne, the former executive editor of Power & Motoryacht magazine and author of the popular blog Megayacht News, has joined our staff.

As a Contributing Editor, Byrne will be responsible for story development and editing, working with Mad Mariner's editors and its expanding group of reporters to bring engaging stories to readers every single day. When Managing Editor Leef Smith Barnes takes maternity leave early next month, Byrne will take over those duties as well.

Byrne spent 15 years with Power & Motoryacht, where she was responsible for popular features such as The Power & Motoryacht 100 and America's 100 Largest Yachts. She has covered megayachts, which are defined as vessels larger than 80 feet, since 1993 and she is regularly quoted in publications like The New York Times, Forbes and Fortune, as well as media outlets like The Associated Press, CNBC and ABC News.

The Megayacht News blog, which publishes daily and is syndicated by Mad Mariner, was named to the Halogen Guides list of top yacht blogs and has been cited by The Wall Street Journal and other publications.

Byrne's contribution to the coverage of recreational boating is exceptional and her reporting on the megayacht market is definitive. The editors at Mad Mariner are extremely excited about her arrival, and her contribution to the magazine.