About
Captain Nicholas Appleberry
Hello, and thanks for stopping by!
My journey at sea began near the Channel Islands of California, initially onboard my sailboat ‘Mistral’. At that time I was also making a modest living as a drummer in a bar blues trio. The sailboat was sold in order to travel the USA and play music. Upon our return, I longed for more time on the ocean, so I decided to get to work.
Initially I found a dream deckhand job (through Craigslist!) as a civilian contractor with the Department of Defense on decommissioned naval vessels. Here we would perform ops for weapons testing, systems testing, act as a training platform for the Navy Seals and MARSOC. It was good fun when we got to role play as ‘pirates’ aboard a 310’ mini container ship with a Glock 9mm and sim rounds.
Since that gig came in waves, I decided to apply myself elsewhere. I was brought on to a company that primarily provided twin screw vessel operating lessons to new boat owners. There I got to learn and apply the curriculum to hone my skills. I got hired through this company to crew on my first yacht, a 2003 68’ Ferretti.
I kept getting called back for this Ferretti, and we did numerous trips to Catalina. Then the owner invited me to FLIBS, ended up buying an 80’ Ferretti, and moved me out to Florida. I worked with this program for 8 years, and solidified my foundation in this industry during this time. In my free time, I’ve freelanced on quite a few day charter gigs as well as vessel deliveries.
In 2023 My wife Tracy and I joined a program on a 2021 Princess Y85, with a very active program and excellent owners. We had put almost 400 hours on the mains in the 2024 season in and around South Florida, the Keys, and the Bahamas. 2025 was just as active, and we made it to Georgetown, Long Island and explored both the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Currently, we are seeking a vessel in Fort Lauderdale that we may share our expertise with, and provide many more smiles and memorable moments onboard. We were happy where we were, but the commute to South Beach took its final toll on us, and we wish to keep our base north of Miami.
At this time I hold a USCG Master 500GRT/500GT Oceans license. By Fall 2026 I will have satisfied the required coursework to achieve a raise the grade to 1600GRT/3000GT Oceans.
Ideally, we will find something in the 35 meter range with 4-5 crew. We would love to explore new waters, but we do value balance in life.
When on land, I enjoy trying to stay active with running or other active sports. Motorcycling, enduro style preferred, is always a blast. Finding good live music is a pleasure. Any morning started with wood fired coffee is a the beginning of a great day!
Thanks for your interest.
Nick