Rick
Damon

My youth was spent on and about the waters of Long Island Sound on various pleasure and commercial vessels. In 1982, I moved to Florida, and in 1985, obtained my OUPV Captain's license. After working aboard assorted private vessels, I joined the United States Coast Guard, serving along the Gulf Coast, and Cape Cod as a Boatswain's Mate conducting Search and Rescue as a Coxswain on 41' Utility Boats and 44' Motor Lifeboats.

After leaving the USCG, I spent several years in the commercial marine industry, and continued to upgrade my Merchant Mariners license. I had the opportunity to operate passenger vessels in Massachusetts and Florida, small tugs along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, and crew/supply boats in the Gulf of Mexico oil fields. I had the opportunity to serve as a navigation and boat handling instructor at the prestigious Chapman School of Seamanship in Stuart, FL. My last commercial marine endeavors had me serving as the Chief Mate and relief Captain aboard the 168' Research Vessel "Edwin Link" out of Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce, Florida. I currently hold a Master of Self Propelled vessels not more than 200 Gross Register Tons upon Near Coastal Waters.

Over the years, my wife and I have owned and operated an assortment of small craft. Currently we have an Eastern Sisu 22' Pilothouse and cruise the coast of southern New England.

I am passionate about being on and about the water, and enjoy sharing my love for the sea with others.