Private Captain for Hire and Personalized and Hands-on boat training for San Diego boaters who want to captain their own boats with confidence.
Waves Below, Confidence Within
About Captain Vicki
I grew up on the water, with my family running a boat business in the Caribbean, so the ocean has always been a part of who I am. During my college days at SDSU, I skied competitively for the waterski team and taught at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center. I knew early on that I needed to make the water my career, and I did exactly that—spending over 30 years in the marine industry, including writing for and publishing boat magazines, racing offshore, and loving every minute crewing on sailboats.
As a boat owner myself (Malibus are my jam!), I’ve tested and evaluated over 500 boats worldwide, from high-performance powerboats to cruising sailboats. Since 2018, I’ve used my U.S. Coast Guard Captain's License to train hundreds of new boaters, helping families and individuals build the skills they need to stay safe and have fun. I’ve seen all the stressful mistakes and challenges firsthand, and I know exactly how to help you overcome them. My goal is simple: to help you become the confident captain your family and friends trust every time you leave the dock!
What Our Clients Say
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What Our Clients Say *
We first met Vicki at Freedom Boat Club, and when we eventually bought our own boat, we made sure to hang onto her number! She helped us break it in, build our skills, and taught us how to safely tow our kids on tubes and wakeboards. Vicki has truly become a part of our family, and the kids still talk about all the fun they've had with her!
-Jan and Jimmy Oakley, Del Mar CA
For my husband's birthday, I surprised him with lessons to help him fine-tune his skills on our new center console fishing boat. I originally just went along for the ride, but Vicki wouldn't let me just sit there! She encouraged me to give it a shot, and with her incredible tips and tricks, I am incredibly confident!
Cyndi Newton, Mission Beach, CA
Your Questions, Answered
Do I need prior boating experience?
No experience is necessary. Captain Vicki handles navigation while providing basic safety briefings so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
What should I bring on the day of my trip?
We recommend sunscreen, a hat, non-slip shoes, and a light jacket. We require that your vessel meets all of the standard safety requirements; PFD’s, Flare, Fire Ext. etc.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe, we offer to reschedule at no extra cost or provide a full refund—your choice.
Let's Get on the Water
New Boat?
Learn your new boat's systems, handling characteristics, and best operating practices.
Docking & Maneuvering
Build confidence in marinas, tight slips, fuel docks, and crowded harbors.
Boat Handling Skills
Slow-speed control, close-quarter maneuvering, wind, current, and emergency procedures.
Anchoring Confidence
Learn proper anchoring techniques and how to stay secure and safe.
Offshore Preparation
Navigation basics, trip planning, weather awareness, and confidence beyond the harbor.
Rusty Captain Refresher
Haven't operated a boat in a while? Let's get your skills and confidence back.
Family Training
Make sure spouses, partners, and family members know how to safely boat too.
Boating Should Be Fun. Not Stressful.
You bought the boat to make memories—not worry about docking, anchoring, navigating, or handling unexpected situations.
Whether you're a first-time boat owner or simply want to sharpen your skills, I'll help you become a safer, more capable, and more confident boater.
Let's spend a few hours on the water and make sure you're ready for whatever your next adventure brings.