About

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Hello, and thanks for stopping by.

My life on the water began near the Channel Islands of California aboard my sailboat Mistral. At the time, I was also earning a modest living as a drummer in a bar blues trio. Eventually, I sold the boat to travel the U.S. and play music—but it didn’t take long after returning home for the pull of the ocean to become impossible to ignore.

Determined to get back on the water, I landed what can only be described as a dream deckhand job (thanks, Craigslist) as a civilian contractor for the Department of Defense. Working aboard decommissioned naval vessels, we supported weapons and systems testing and served as training platforms for Navy SEALs and MARSOC. On occasion, that even meant role-playing as “pirates” on a 264’ (80m) mini container ship—Glock 9mm, sim rounds, and all. It was demanding, unconventional, and a lot of fun.

Because that work came in waves, I expanded my focus and joined a company specializing in twin-screw vessel instruction for new vessel owners. There, I deepened my technical foundation and instructional skills, which led to my first yacht position aboard a 2003 68’ Ferretti. I was repeatedly called back for Catalina runs, and before long, the owner invited me to FLIBS—where he purchased an 80’ Ferretti and relocated me to Florida. I spent the next eight years with that program, building a solid foundation in the maritime industry. Along the way, I freelanced on day charters and vessel deliveries, gaining experience across a wide range of operations.

In 2023, my wife Tracy and I joined a very active private program aboard a 2021 Princess Y85 based in South Beach, FL. During the 2024 season alone, we logged nearly 400 hours cruising South Florida, the Keys, and the Bahamas. The pace continued through 2025, with extended cruising to Georgetown, Long Island, and multiple trips through the Turks and Caicos. We resigned from this position due to the commute and to set our sights higher.

I currently hold a USCG Master 1600 GRT / 500 GT Oceans license with OICNW (II/1), as well as AB Unlimited with RFPNW. I am in the application process for a raise of grade to Master 3000 GT Oceans. I am seeking a bridge team role on vessels over 50m, or command of a vessel over 35m.

When I’m on land, I enjoy staying active through running and other sports, riding enduro-style motorcycles, and tracking down great live music. Any morning that starts with wood-fired coffee is already a good one.

Thanks for your interest,
Nick Appleberry

USCG Ref# 3785249