Adventure with The Sea Guy!
Explore Our Premier Yachting Services
At The Sea Guy, we offer personalized on-the-water training, expert captain services, and assistance with selecting and purchasing your perfect boat, ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free experience on the water
How Can I Help?
Explore the full range of services I offer, from assisting your family in selecting and purchasing the perfect new boat to providing professional captain services for a safe and enjoyable experience while on the water
Yacht Broker for Off the Hook Yachts
My expertise is wide and vast when it comes to all sizes of vessels. Whether this is your first purchase or sale, or your fifth, I am dedicated to ensuring your transaction goes as smoothly as possible—before, during, and after the sale. I aim to build a lasting friendship and a strong commitment to you and your family.
Off the Hook Yachts has access to hundreds of off-market boats. If you are looking for a specific brand or model, please don’t hesitate to contact me for more information. Additionally, if you see any vessel on our
website, please contact me directly at [email protected]
On-the-Water Training Specialist
I offer personalized, hands-on training sessions designed to help you and your family become confident and skilled in operating your own boat. I travel to your location and conduct the training right on your boat, ensuring that you learn in the exact environment where you’ll be boating most often—your slip and local waterways.
This tailored approach allows us to focus on the specific features of your vessel, familiarize you with local navigation, and address any unique challenges you may encounter. My goal is to ensure you feel safe, knowledgeable, and fully prepared to enjoy your time on the water. Check below for my training topics!
Docking & Undocking
Docking and undocking procedures have you hesitant around the pier? Boat handling gets every captain nervous about damaging his or her vessel, other vessels and damage to the pier. Not sure what lines to use with certain winds and/or currents? The Sea Guy can help you.
Anchoring
Proper anchoring techniques are rarely taught or understood. Achieving proper setup for you and your crew to rest easy all night can be easily rectified.
Radar
Radar settings can be very ambiguous. Settings in the morning may be incorrect in the afternoon. I have experience with all types of radar. I pride myself on radar operation and after a couple hours of radar work with The Sea Guy, I can have you operating your equipment like a pro!
Line Handling and knots
Basic knot tying for you and your crew. Know the basic knots to tie in a hurry. How to properly throw a line and the safety aspects of line handling.
Electronics
Do you rely heavily on your GPS or chart plotter for navigation? Setup is crucial to achieve proper use. Knowing the ins and outs of your electronics will improve safer and more efficient operation.
Emergency Procedures
Emergency procedures can be daunting and if not done properly can endanger your crew and or vessel. Knowing what to do when friends and family are onboard is invaluable.
Rules of the Road
Rules of the Road are the rules which govern all craft upon all the waters of the world. Knowing these rules is vital to the safe operation of your vessel. The Sea Guy will provide in-depth knowledge to the Rules and how these rules apply to the private boat owner. This in-depth look is not taught in the safe boater’s course.
Professional Captain Service
I provide professional captain services to ensure your day on the water is safe, enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether it’s a family outing, fishing trip, or hosting guests, I handle navigation, docking, and safety so you can relax and enjoy. Contact me to discuss your needs and plan the perfect day.
Testimonials
Brooks R., CT
"The Sea Guy is clearly one of the most educated in ocean etiquette and safety. His education and training is extremely helpful."
Joann R, Warwick, RI
"Instruction was provided by The Sea Guy, Capt. John and was incredible! I learned more in 4 hours than I did in any boating class I have taken."
Andy F, Narragansett, RI
"I highly recommend John as a Ship’s Captain or instructor. I have been on vessels with him several times and he is a true leader and professional."
To Whom It May Concern, "I have owned many power boats over the past 40 years from 28 to 46 feet, and like many owner/operators took courses in safety, handling, and “rules of the road”. However, when we purchased our 77 ft Nordland I wanted advanced training for our crew – my wife and me.
We would highly recommend him to anyone desiring to learn the fine art of seamanship.”
I reached out to John who spent 2 weeks aboard with us, cruising the waters of British Columbia and providing real time training; how to perform in adverse conditions such as high wind – fast currents – emergency procedures – equipment failure. Under Johns guidance we honed our skills in large boat operations and became a proficient crew. His patient and resourceful methods combined with his shared experiences as a captain of many large vessels made our training a most memorable and exciting experience."
"We would highly recommend him to anyone desiring to learn the fine art of seamanship."
Ed & Lee, Las Vegas, NV
MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO
Hey, I'm John!
I am a USCG licensed Captain (Unlimited Third Mate) Merchant Marine Officer an educational facilitator and fully insured for any size vessel. In addition to general navigation and seamanship, I also specialize in the areas of advanced high speed navigation, ship handling, and waterjet propulsion.
My certifications include:
Navigation and Ship handling,
Bridge Resource Management,
Radar Observer Certified for Unlimited Tonnage,
High Speed ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid),
Advanced Shipboard & Facility Firefighting,
Oil Spill Emergency Containment and Cleanup,
Team Training Damage Control,
CPR & First Aid Certified
FAA Private Pilot License.
Fun Facts
I am a native Rhode Islander and grew up exploring Southern New England waters by boat with my father, a Charter Fisherman, for many years.
I joined the Merchant Marines and worked for several years onboard many different vessels, including but not limited to cable laying ships, research vessels and container vessels. These roles provided me with international exposure and knowledge of many different experiences relating to the maritime industry at large.
After accumulating over 10,000 hours of time in command onboard high speed craft I was recruited by the US Navy to educate their senior watch officers in Advanced Navigation, Ship Handling, Seamanship, Radar, Electronic navigation, High Speed Navigation, and waterjet propulsion.
After obtaining my unlimited 3rd Mate’s license I worked aboard the fastest passenger vessels in the United States (at the time). In the wake of September 11th, the demand for the passenger ferry industry increased dramatically. This was pivotal for me as I began working as Master for several high speed craft companies in New York Harbor. Here I gained leadership abilities to effectively manage crews and navigate through incredibly congested waterways.
I look forward to the opportunity of sharing the knowledge and experience which I have gained throughout my professional career with the private boaters of New England.
FAQs
Explore Common Queries About Yacht Ownership and Services
How do I know which yacht is right for me?
Our experienced brokers will help you determine the best fit based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. During your consultation, well discuss intended use, size requirements, style preferences, and other essential factors.
What is involved in yacht maintenance
Yacht maintenance includes a range of services from mechanical inspections and repairs to cleaning and detailing. At The Sea Guy, we tailor maintenance schedules based on yacht size, type, and frequency of use to keep your vessel in optimal condition.
How does the yacht buying process work?
Once you have identified your preferred yacht, our broker will lead you through the entire purchasing process, including price negotiation, legal paperwork, registration, and any other details to finalize the sale. We strive to make the acquisition as smooth and transparent as possible.
What kind of customization can I do on my yacht?
Your customization options are limitless with The Sea Guy. From the interior layout, furniture, and decor to exterior paint and technological upgrades, we work closely with you to ensure every detail meets your requirements and taste.