Nick’s journey began on the shores of Lake Michigan in Holland, Michigan, where his childhood was filled with adventures aboard his family’s boat. During high school and college summers, Nick worked as the dock master at Coral Gables Resort in Saugatuck, Michigan, gaining valuable experience in the boating industry. In 1998, a pivotal opportunity arose when he was asked to deliver a 71-foot Hatteras yacht from the Great Lakes to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Nick decided to make Fort Lauderdale his home and in 1998 obtained his first captain’s license while working aboard the Hatteras and also earning his bachelor’s degree in business from Florida Atlantic University.
Throughout his 27-year career as a captain, Nick’s passion for continued growth, determination, and commitment to excellence has garnered industry recognition and made him a respected authority in the yachting industry. He is an inspiration to aspiring captains and continues to be a mentor to many of the crew members that have worked aboard his vessels.
Today, Nick holds a USCG Master 1600/3000 Oceans license and boasts over 3000 days at sea. He is dedicated to maritime safety and holds an ISM/DPA auditors’ certificate, ensuring that every vessel under his command operates at the highest safety standards. Nick has completed an impressive 41 charters just over the past 2 years alone. This accomplishment speaks volumes about his expertise, reliability, and the trust he inspires among charter clients. In his free time Nick enjoys fishing, spearfishing, and spending time with his daughters, Piper and Harlowe.
