Summary

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.

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

Summary

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.

Takeaways

• Consider the people and the places you will experience while boating, rather than focusing solely on the brand or size of the boat.
• Don't wait for the perfect time or boat to start boating; take action and make it happen.
• Insurance, pre-qualification, and training are essential aspects to consider before purchasing a boat.
• Vessel Vanguard provides a valuable service in organizing boat information and keeping track of important details.
• Building a relationship with a knowledgeable broker can help guide you through the boat buying process and ensure a smooth experience.
• Boats are a financially irresponsible decision, but they can also hold their value and provide incredible experiences.

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

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.

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/

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Key Takeaways

• Embracing digitalization in the maritime industry can improve safety, compliance, and efficiency.
• Implementing safety management systems (SMS) is crucial for operators to meet regulatory requirements.
• Training and resources are essential for operators to navigate the transition to digital systems and comply with upcoming regulations.
• Promoting waterborne tourism and advocating for the industry's interests are important for the growth and success of the maritime sector. Collaboration and cooperation are key to improving the industry as a whole.
• A larger and safer industry benefits everyone involved.
• Continued efforts are needed to ensure the safety and success of the industry.
• Closing remarks and well wishes for the future.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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