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Podcast

The Boating Insider Podcast

Real conversations with the marine professionals who actually run the water.

2 seasons 19 episodes 14 hours of listening

Across two seasons, Boating Insider sat down with captains, yacht managers, surveyors, ferry operators and safety advocates from every corner of the industry — covering mentorship in yachting, the realities of ownership, Coast Guard compliance, digitalization, and building a career on the water. Every episode is below, and the whole show is on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

All episodes

  1. Season 2, episode 4. March 12, 2024 24 min

    Passenger Safety & Compliance With Block Island Ferry

    In this episode, Chris and Brian from Block Island Ferry discuss their operation of the ferry to Block Island. They highlight the vital resources and services they bring to the island's community, including emergency services and daily supplies. They also emphasize the importance of passenger safety and compliance with Coast Guard regulations. The conversation covers topics such as preparing for Coast Guard inspections, running simulated emergency exercises, and mitigating risks of electric vehicle fires. Chris and Brian also discuss the partnership between the ferry industry and the Coast Guard in shaping regulations and improving safety practices.

    Show notes & chapters

    Takeaways

    - Operating a ferry service to Block Island involves providing vital resources and services to the island's community.

    - Passenger safety is the top priority, and compliance with Coast Guard regulations is essential.

    - The ferry industry and the Coast Guard have a partnership to improve safety practices and shape regulations.

    - Running simulated emergency exercises helps prepare for potential incidents, such as electric vehicle fires.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction To Block Island Ferry

    01:51 Bringing Vital Resources

    02:56 Trip Frequencies

    04:16 Running Midsize Ferry Operations

    06:11 The Block Island Ferry Mindset

    06:55 Having Fun In the Operation

    08:36 Presenting At The PVA

    09:28 "1-2 Good Ideas Could Pay For Your Whole Trip"

    11:34 Fostering Conversations In The Community

    12:31 Bringing Back Information

    13:11 Learning From The Community

    15:31 Electric Car Fires On Ferries

    17:57 Tabletop Exercises In Emergencies

    21:05 USCG & PVA

    22:52 Wrap Up

    Apple Podcasts →
  2. Season 2, episode 3. February 28, 2024 54 min

    Insights from Jeff Merrill on Trawlers, JMYS, Trawlerfest

    In this conversation, Jeff Merrill discusses his background in sailing and yacht sales, as well as the appeal of trawlers and the importance of the people involved in boating. He emphasizes the need for buyers to consider insurance, pre-qualification, and training before purchasing a boat. Merrill also highlights the role of Vessel Vanguard in organizing boat information and offers insights into the initial contact and financial considerations when buying a boat. This conversation covers various aspects of buying and owning a boat, including the cost, choosing the right boat, inspecting the boat, and understanding the time spent on board. It also discusses the importance of the layout and flow of the boat, the percentage of time spent underway, and the purpose of Trawler Fest. The conversation concludes with a mention of the seminars and the Ask the Experts round table at Trawler Fest.

    Show notes & chapters

    Takeaways

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction

    01:10 About Jeff Merrill & JMYS

    05:23 The Appeal Of Trawlers & The People Interested

    07:57 Jeff's Sailing Background

    10:06 Considerations for Buying a Boat

    15:12 The Importance of Insurance and Pre-Qualification

    18:57 The Involvement Of The Internet In Boating

    22:19 The Role Of Vessel Vanguard In Organizing Boat Information

    25:51 Initial Contact & Getting To Know The Buyer

    28:29 Financial Considerations & The Value of Boats

    29:37 The Cost of Buying and Owning a Boat

    31:18 Choosing the Right Boat

    37:05 Understanding Time "Required" On Board

    40:10 Trawlerfest 2024

    42:21 Jeff's Seminars At Trawlerfest

    51:07 Other Trawlerfests To Visit

    53:23 Outro

    Apple Podcasts →
  3. Season 2, episode 2. February 15, 2024 14 min

    Galveston's Historic Seaport and 1877 Tall Ship Elissa with Mark Scibinico

    Join Mark Scibinico in this insightful Boating Insider episode exploring the rich maritime history of Galveston, Texas, courtesy of the Galveston Historical Foundation. Learn about the foundation's origins dating back to the 1800s, officially incorporated in 1954, and discover the maritime endeavors of the Galveston Historic Foundation. Gain insights into the restoration efforts that contribute to the preservation of the tall ship Elissa and her historical significance. Learn how the Elissa is kept alive through the commitment of volunteers who dedicate 30,000 hours annually to maintain, restore, and contribute to the maritime legacy. Don't miss this engaging journey into history with the Galveston Historical Foundation.

    Show notes & chapters

    To learn more about the Galveston Historical Foundation, visit www.galvestonhistory.org

    Apple Podcasts →
  4. Season 2, episode 1. February 1, 2024 45 min

    Digitalization, Safety, and Advocacy with Captains Kurt Huck & Stephen Steels

    The conversation covers various topics related to the maritime industry, including the impact of going digital, the importance of safety management systems, and the challenges and benefits of embracing technology. The guests discuss the role of the Passenger Commercial Vessel Association (PCVA) in supporting its members and promoting waterborne tourism. They also highlight the need for training and resources to help operators comply with upcoming regulations. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of safety, compliance, and the use of technology in the maritime industry. The conversation concludes with a focus on bettering the industry and closing remarks.

    Show notes & chapters

    Learn more about the PCVA at https://www.pcva.ca/

    Key Takeaways

    Apple Podcasts →
  5. Season 1, episode 15. December 21, 2023 1h 11m

    Captain Kelly Gordon

    Rhiannon and Kelly dive into what it means to be a good captain, what it's like managing a whole crew of employees and a fleet of yachts, as well as how a yacht management software helps her stay on top of day to day operations.

    Show notes & chapters

    Visit Captain Kelly's website: https://www.captainkellyjgordon.com/

    Show Kelly some love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captain_kellyjgordon/

    Show Kelly some love on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn0hMUAFubbrX4EH7_ArYWg

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  6. Season 1, episode 14. November 22, 2023 36 min

    Passenger Vessel Association

    Today, we’re joined by John Groundwater and Dave Anderson from PVA (Passenger Vessel Association).

    Show notes & chapters

    PVA is dedicated to promoting the interests and the economic well-being of U.S. passenger vessel owners and operators, and associated businesses, while promoting safety and a secure maritime operating environment for passenger vessels operators, passengers, crew, and the public at-large.

    Visit their website: http://www.passengervessel.com/

    Check us out on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boatinginsider/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  7. Season 1, episode 13. November 16, 2023 34 min

    Sea Rocket Adventures

    Today, we’re joined by Will Wangel, CEO of Sea Rocket Adventures. We dive into how Will got started with Sea Rocket, the new boats they’re bringing on, as well as how they use Vessel Vanguard to manage their fleet in one system.

    Show notes & chapters

    Sea Rocket Adventures is a watersports company focused on bringing adventure to travelers along the Atlantic Coast. They offer parasailing, speedboat cruises, sunset cruises, party boat rentals, and more.

    Visit their website: https://searocket.com/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  8. Season 1, episode 12. November 9, 2023 26 min

    International WorkBoat Show 2023

    Today, we’re joined by Bob Callahan and Lauren St. Clair from the International WorkBoat Show. With over 900 different companies attending, we dive into what visitors can expect from the 3-day show this year in New Orleans.

    Show notes & chapters

    The International WorkBoat Show is a trade-only conference and expo for commercial vessel owners, operators, and builders, as well as the vendors that supply them.

    Visit their website: https://www.workboatshow.com/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  9. Season 1, episode 11. November 2, 2023 51 min

    Captain Kelly Gordon and Captain Stephan Coetzer

    Rhiannon, Captain Kelly, and Captain Stephan dive into mental health issues within the yachting industry, specifically how to deal with toxic crew members as well as the importance of speaking up about unfair treatment.

    Show notes & chapters

    Check out Captain Kelly's Website: https://www.captainkellyjgordon.com

    Check out Captain Kelly's YouTube: @captain_kellyjgordon

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  10. Season 1, episode 10. October 26, 2023 57 min

    Captain Ed Palermo, Marlow 70E MkII

    Today, we're joined by Captain Ed Palermo, manager and captain of a MKII 70E Marlow yacht. We talk about how he got started as a mate, working his way into the world of delivery & management before taking over as the full time captain of this boat.

    Show notes & chapters

    Check out Ed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capt_palermo/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  11. Season 1, episode 9. October 19, 2023 38 min

    Lou Clark from Exclusive Yachts

    Chris and Lou dive into the world of yacht ownership, discussing things like maintenance costs, scheduling, insurance, and what you need to know before buying a yacht.

    Show notes & chapters

    Lou is the head of sales at Exclusive Yachts, a members-only club delivering personalized yachting experiences worldwide at a fraction of the cost of ownership — and without the headaches of ad-hoc chartering.

    Visit their website: https://exclusiveyachts.club/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com/

    Apple Podcasts →
  12. Season 1, episode 8. October 12, 2023 36 min

    Tom McGowan from Engineered Yacht Solutions

    Today, we’re joined by Tom McGowan, owner and president of Engineered Yacht Solutions. Tom started out sanding boats in Lauderdale Marine Center, working his way up to management before starting his own company.

    Show notes & chapters

    Engineered Yacht Solutions focuses on welding, sheet metal fabrication, steel fabrication, machining, and marine plumbing. Throughout the years, these services have proven essential to boat owners looking to modify, extend, and repair their yachts.

    Apply to work at EYS: https://eyswelding.com/careers

    Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-mcgowan-a2996013/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  13. Season 1, episode 7. October 5, 2023 58 min

    Captain Carrie Jenne

    Today, we’re joined by Captain Carrie Jenne, a U.S. Coast Guard approved instructor and a captain with over 20 years of experience. Carrie grew up in Thousand Islands, where as a kid she kayaked through the waterways of the Northeast.

    Show notes & chapters

    She became a crew member on tour boats as a teenager, using her seatime to get her Captain’s license a few months after graduating college. Now, she shares her experience & educates newer crew members on maritime safety, security and the ‘Rules of the Road’.

    Connect with Carrie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-jenne-aa36b3232/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  14. Season 1, episode 6. September 28, 2023 36 min

    Corey Ranslem from Dryad Global

    Today, we’re joined by Corey Ranslem, CEO of Dryad Global. Dryad Global provides real time risk information for both recreational and commercial vessel operators via their ARMS (automated risk management solution) software platform. This information helps commercial operators to stay aware of regional hazards and better plan their routes and operations.

    Show notes & chapters

    Connect with Corey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-ranslem/

    Check out Dryad Global’s website: https://www.dryadglobal.com/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  15. Season 1, episode 5. September 21, 2023 53 min

    Norma Trease from Yacht Knowledge

    Today, we’re joined by Norma Trease, founder of Yacht Knowledge and a board member of the International Seakeepers Society. Norma talks about how she got involved in the maritime industry, the importance of learning hospitality skills early, as well as how she started The Crew Network, the first online crew placement agency.

    Show notes & chapters

    Connect with Norma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norma-trease-33901a14/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  16. Season 1, episode 4. September 14, 2023 44 min

    Captain Bob Rando from Captiva Cruises

    Today, we're joined by Captain Bob Rando from Captiva Cruises. We talk about Bob's career as a captain, the importance of planning and scheduling boat maintenance, as well as the impact of Hurricane Ian on Southwest Florida.

    Show notes & chapters

    Visit Captiva Cruises' website: https://captivacruises.com

    Show them some love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captivacruises/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: http://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  17. Season 1, episode 3. August 17, 2023 55 min

    Jared Hassut from YMS Yacht Management Services

    Today, we’re joined by Jared Hassut from YMS Yacht Management Services, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We talk about how Jared got started cleaning yachts in Miami, before he used his network to get his first boat management contract, eventually scaling his management services into a business.

    Show notes & chapters

    Check out YMS’ website: https://yachtmgtservices.com/

    Show them some love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yms_fl/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  18. Season 1, episode 2. August 10, 2023 37 min

    Fernando Diaz from Nordhavn

    Today, we’re joined by Fernando Diaz from Nordhavn, one of the biggest trawler manufacturers in the world. He talks about some of the biggest mistakes he sees first time boat owners making, how Nordhavn helps new boat owners learn their boat’s systems, as well as the importance of meeting with an insurance agent before buying a boat.

    Show notes & chapters

    Visit their website: https://nordhavn.com/

    Show them some love on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nordhavn_dreamers/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →
  19. Season 1, episode 1. July 20, 2023 1h 10m

    Wendy Clark from Sunburst Yacht Charters

    Chris and Wendy dive into the importance of mentorship in the maritime industry, what yacht owners are looking for from captains, as well as the value of having a software to track maintenance and invoices.

    Show notes & chapters

    Visit Sunburst Yacht Charters’ Website: https://sunburstyachtcharters.com

    Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-clark-b16012110/

    Thanks to our sponsor, Vessel Vanguard: https://vesselvanguard.com

    Apple Podcasts →

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