Holder of a Commercially Endorsed RYA Yachtmaster Offshore for over 25 years and an RYA Cruising Instructor for much of that time, Sam has sailed extensively in the Caribbean and Mediterranean and in some parts of South East Asia, the Atlantic coast of Europe, the North Sea and USA. She is available for select professional skippering assignments.
Professional skippers are experienced, licensed mariners who offer their expertise to boat owners for various services. Whether you’re moving your vessel to a new location, learning to handle your new boat safely, or need someone trustworthy to take care of your boat while you’re away, a professional skipper can give you peace of mind with their comprehensive knowledge of seamanship, navigation, and vessel operation.
A professional skipper brings years of experience in different waters, weather conditions, and vessel types, ensuring your boat is handled safely and efficiently.
For new boat owners, he/she can provide invaluable training and mentorship, helping you develop the skills and confidence needed for safe boating. For experienced owners, they offer convenience and expertise for deliveries or when you need a qualified captain for special circumstances. From managing crew and planning routes to handling emergency situations and maintaining vessel safety, professional skippers combine practical skills with local knowledge to protect your investment and ensure everyone’s safety on the water.
Types of Skippering Services Offered
Sam is available to help you with:
Yacht Deliveries
If you need to move your boat and would prefer to have a professional on board.
Contact Sam when you’re planning to move your boat; she and her husband Francois can help you:
- Plan the route taking into account the weather and currents
- Prepare the boat for the trip
- Source crew
- Prepare a meal plan and provisioning list
- Skipper your boat delivery
Coastal Deliveries
Professional coastal delivery services ensure your vessel reaches its destination safely while navigating the unique challenges of inshore waters. Whether moving your boat between marinas, relocating for seasonal use, or bringing home a new purchase, I handle all aspects of coastal passage planning and execution. This includes careful consideration of tides, currents, harbour access, local regulations, and navigational hazards, while maintaining constant awareness of shelter options and marina availability along the route.
Offshore Passages
When your journey takes you beyond coastal waters, trust your vessel to an experienced offshore skipper. Offshore passages require meticulous preparation, robust boat systems knowledge, and the experience to handle extended periods at sea out of sight of land and without stops! Francois and I bring extensive blue-water experience to manage your vessel safely through multiple days at sea, handling watch schedules, equipment management, and the specific challenges of offshore navigation while maintaining your boat’s condition throughout the passage.
International Transits
International vessel delivery involves logistics beyond standard passage planning. I handle all aspects of international transit, including customs clearance, immigration procedures, and port formalities. With experience in multiple jurisdictions, I manage the documentation requirements, arrival protocols, and regulatory compliance, coordinating with agents when necessary. This ensures smooth border crossings and hassle-free arrivals at international destinations.
Route Planning
Successful passages begin with route planning. I develop detailed passage plans considering vessel capabilities, crew experience, seasonal conditions, and time constraints. Each plan incorporates primary and alternative routes, identifies safe harbors and refuge ports, accounts for fuel ranges, and includes detailed waypoint selection. Special attention is paid to navigational challenges, restricted areas, and shipping lanes to ensure efficient and safe passages.
Weather Routing
Professional weather routing is crucial for safe and comfortable passages. Using multiple weather sources and forecasting tools, I analyze weather patterns, seasonal trends, and local conditions to identify optimal weather windows. Ongoing monitoring throughout the passage allows for course and schedule adjustments to avoid adverse conditions. This proactive approach to weather management maximizes safety while minimizing passage time and fuel consumption.
Crew Management
Effective crew management ensures safe passages and harmonious operations aboard. I handle all aspects of crew coordination, from selecting qualified crew members to organizing watch schedules and delegating responsibilities. Clear communication, proper briefings, and established protocols create a professional environment where safety and efficiency are paramount. Regular crew assessments and feedback maintain high standards while developing skills and teamwork throughout the passage.
NOTES
There are certain stipulations for engaging us for a delivery:
- Your boat must be seaworthy with a recent survey available, and insurance in place to cover the planned voyage.
- If you don’t have a recent survey available, Sam can undertake a detailed inspection and provide you with a written report. Please see our Rate Sheet here.
- You must have a clear plan of where you want to go and the time frame for the voyage – we can advise on sailing routes and times if you need this guidance.
- Sam or her husband Francois will always skipper the delivery and bring along a Crew member of her choice; we welcome the owner on board, and if he/she is deemed capable and knowledgeable*, he/she can be the Crew member.
- No other additional passengers or crew will be accepted without specific agreement with Sam.
- An offshore passage usually requires three crew on board for insurance purposes.
* The decision on crew is Sam or Francois’ decision alone and their decision is final. This is non-negotiable.
Please see our Rate Sheet here for more information on rates and travel costs. A sample Delivery Contract is available here.
Own Boat Tuition
Getting to know a new boat can be stressful, take some private lessons with a professional skipper and get a head start.
If you’ve just bought a boat, contact Sam for help with:
- Getting to know the boat systems
- Beginner sailing lessons and boat handling skills*
- Build confidence in your vessel
- Advice on changes or upgrades to your boat systems
- Sourcing reliable and reputable professionals for your boat work and projects
New Boat Orientation
I provide comprehensive orientation sessions tailored to your specific vessel, walking you through every aspect of your new boat. From basic operations to advanced features, we’ll systematically cover all systems and equipment, ensuring you understand your boat’s unique characteristics and requirements. The orientation includes practical demonstrations, hands-on practice, and documentation of key procedures. We’ll focus on daily operations, system management, maintenance requirements, and safety features while answering all your questions to build confidence in handling your new vessel. This thorough familiarisation process helps you transition smoothly into boat ownership, reducing the learning curve and preventing common mistakes that new owners often make.
System Operation Training
Understanding your boat’s systems is crucial for safe, confident operation. Through hands-on instruction, I’ll guide you through all your vessel’s systems – from electrical and plumbing to engines and electronics. Training is tailored to your experience level and specific needs, ensuring you develop a thorough understanding of daily operations, troubleshooting, and maintenance requirements. We’ll cover everything from basic checks to emergency procedures, helping you become self-sufficient and confident in managing your boat’s systems.
Docking Practice
Master the art of docking with personalised instruction and practice sessions. We’ll work together to develop your boat handling skills in various conditions, teaching you to read wind and current effects while understanding your vessel’s specific handling characteristics. Through structured practice, you’ll learn techniques for different docking scenarios, proper use of spring lines, and crew coordination. Build confidence through hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment until docking becomes second nature.
Navigation Training
Develop essential navigation skills through practical, hands-on training. From chart work and pilotage to electronic navigation and radar operation, you’ll learn to navigate safely and confidently in various conditions. Training covers route planning, position fixing, tide and current calculations, and the effective use of electronic navigation tools. We’ll focus on both traditional and modern navigation techniques, ensuring you can navigate safely even if electronic systems fail.
* Note that Sam is not registered as a sailing school and therefore cannot issue formal certificates. If you require a formal certificate, Alex Johnston at RYA Training Centre Bluewater Sailing in Grenada offers own boat tuition.
Safety Procedures
Learn essential safety protocols, including emergency procedures, man overboard recovery, fire fighting, and damage control. We’ll cover safety equipment locations and operation, emergency communications, and when to call for assistance. Through practical drills and scenarios, you’ll develop the knowledge and confidence to handle various emergency situations while keeping your crew safe.
Caribbean Local Area Familiarisation
I’ll introduce you to your Caribbean cruising area’s key features, including preferred anchorages, navigation hazards, and local regulations. Learn about weather patterns, tidal effects, and seasonal considerations specific to your region. We’ll explore marine facilities, emergency services, and popular destinations while sharing local insights that usually take years to discover.
Please see our Rate Sheet here for more information on rates and travel costs. A sample Tuition Contract is available here.
Skippered Charters
Your sailing holiday should be a stress-free experience, so let a professional skipper take weight off your shoulders. Whether you’re new to sailing or simply want to relax and enjoy your time on the water, a skippered charter ensures your safety while maximising your enjoyment. Your skipper will handle all aspects of boat operations, from navigation and anchoring to docking and systems management, allowing you and your guests to focus on the experience, learn at your own pace, and discover the best locations.
Contact Sam when you’re planning your charter; she can help you:
- Choose the right boat for your group
- Plan an itinerary and activities to make the most of where you’re sailing
- Prepare a meal plan and provisioning list
- Manage airport pick-ups, boat familiarisation and safety briefings
- Skipper your trip and help you learn some sailing skills
Owner Absence Coverage
Keep your charter boat earning even when you can’t be there. As your professional relief skipper, I’ll maintain your vessel’s charter schedule, ensuring your boat continues generating income during your absence. I’ll handle all aspects of guest management, vessel care, and charter operations, maintaining your high standards while protecting your investment. Regular updates and thorough handover procedures keep you informed and your vessel in prime condition.
Guest Briefings
Comprehensive guest briefings are essential for safe, enjoyable charter experiences. I provide clear, thorough orientations covering all aspects of your charter, from basic systems and safety equipment to specific features and local considerations. Using a structured yet friendly approach, I ensure your guests understand essential procedures while feeling comfortable and confident aboard. Special attention is given to safety protocols, emergency procedures, and vessel-specific guidelines.
Local Knowledge
Benefit from 15 years of experience sailing throughout the Caribbean from the Bahamas to Trinidad and East as far as Guatemala and Panama. I provide invaluable insights about anchorages, mooring spots, navigation hazards, weather patterns, and local regulations. From secret snorkelling spots and quiet coves to the best restaurants and shore facilities, my local knowledge helps you discover the highlights while avoiding tourist traps and rolly anchorages. I’ll help you plan optimal routes based on weather conditions, guest preferences, and time constraints.
Safety Oversight
Safety is the top consideration in all charter operations. I maintain constant vigilance over all aspects of vessel and guest safety, from weather monitoring and passage planning to equipment checks and emergency preparedness. Regular safety briefings, equipment inspections, and proactive risk management ensure your charters operate safely and professionally. My experience handling various emergency scenarios provides peace of mind for owners and guests alike.
Please see our Rate Sheet here for more information on rates and travel costs. A sample Charter Skipper Contract is available here.
Service Areas
– Regular operating areas
– Delivery range
– Local knowledge zones
– Travel availability
Experience and Qualifications
– Licenses held
– Sea miles logged
– Areas of operation
– Special certifications
– Additional skills
What to Expect
Pre-departure checks
Daily routines
Communication protocols
Progress reporting
Weather monitoring
Emergency procedures
Equipment & Resources
– Navigation tools
– Safety equipment
– Communication devices
– Weather resources
– Emergency gear
Safety Protocols
– Risk assessment
– Emergency procedures
– Weather limitations
– Crew requirements
– Equipment checks
Booking Process
Initial consultation
Contract details
Required documentation
Scheduling
Payment terms
Past Voyages
– Route examples
– Case studies
– Notable deliveries
– Training success stories
