THE CAPTAIN

USCG Licensed Captain with over 25 years of boating experience.

I grew up in Miami and have been boating since I was young enough to walk. My father took me out on his boat when I was a young boy, and from that early experience, I knew I wanted to spend every moment out on the water. As a teenager, I fell in love with boating and started driving my father's boat as soon as I was able to drive a car. I enjoyed fishing, snorkeling, and exploring the numerous islands around South Florida.

I graduated with a bachelor's degree in International Business from FIU. In my 20s, I worked as a contractor on various cruise ships and was lucky enough to visit many parts of the world by sea. I quickly realized I wanted to own a boat and take guests along. Over the years, I helped family and friends learn how to boat and safely navigate the waters in and around South Florida.

I am just as comfortable on a boat as I am in the water. As a certified PADI Open Water Diver, I enjoy exploring the ocean from above and below. I have experience working on boats ranging from small skiffs to yachts up to 65 feet long, and I’ve safely navigated the ICW from St. Augustine to Marathon. I also have local knowledge of the waters in Miami-Dade and Monroe County, as well as Bimini.

In early 2023, I obtained my Captain’s License, a Merchant Mariner Credential as a Master issued by the United States Coast Guard. That same year, I decided to turn my lifelong passion into a business and launched Miami Boating Lessons with a clear mission: to help make boating safer in South Florida.

As a licensed and insured Captain, I am also CPR and First Aid certified. Safety is always my top priority.

Through Miami Boating Lessons, I offer private, hands-on boating instruction tailored to each client’s experience level and vessel. Whether you’re brand new to boating or looking to build your skills and confidence, I can help you become a safer, more capable boater.

Now, I spend my days doing what I love, teaching safe boating and taking fellow boaters out on the crystal-clear waters of Miami and the Florida Keys. My focus is on safety, knowledge, and the elemental quality of boating in Miami. I want to share why we love it and how to do it right.

I hope you’ll consider hiring me for a boating lesson. Whether you are new to boating or would like to improve your boating skills, I can tailor a private lesson to your experience and your boat.

Why You Should Hire a Licensed and Insured USCG Captain for Hands-On Boating Lessons

When learning to operate your boat safely and confidently, hiring a licensed and insured captain who holds a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is not just a smart decision; it is essential for both safety and legal compliance.

A licensed USCG captain brings formal training, extensive experience, and professional accountability. With over 25 years of boating experience in South Florida, along with current CPR certification, a licensed captain ensures that your instruction is based on real-world experience and a deep understanding of safe boating practices. This level of expertise goes far beyond what a casual or self-taught boater can offer. Just because someone has boating experience does not mean they are properly trained or qualified to teach others, especially on your personal vessel.

There are also important legal considerations. Federal law clearly states that a person cannot accept any form of compensation, whether it is a fee, a tip, or even fuel money, for taking passengers on a boat or providing instruction unless they hold a valid USCG captain’s license. According to 46 U.S. Code § 8906, operating a vessel for hire without the proper credentials is illegal and may lead to serious penalties. Boat owners can also face liability if they knowingly allow an unlicensed person to conduct paid instruction or charters.

Hiring a licensed and insured captain provides an added layer of protection. In the event of an accident, injury, or dispute, having a properly credentialed professional onboard reduces your legal and financial risk. Unlicensed operators typically lack the insurance coverage necessary to protect you and your vessel.

A licensed, insured, and CPR-certified USCG captain offers many advantages, including:

Professional, hands-on training tailored to your boat and experience level
Proven safety knowledge and emergency preparedness
Compliance with maritime laws and regulations
Reduced risk and greater peace of mind for you and your passengers

For safe, legal, and effective boating instruction, always choose a properly licensed captain from Miami Boating Lessons.

It is an investment in your skills, your safety, and the responsible operation of your vessel.