Long-Term Pacific & Central America Cruising
Position begins Fall 2026 | Humboldt Bay, California to Panama
I am the owner/captain of Surrender, a well-equipped, world-class cruising sailboat, and I’m looking for an experienced individual or compatible one-berth couple interested in becoming part of a long-term offshore cruising program. This is for someone who enjoys real passagemaking—not marina hopping—with extended offshore passages, quiet anchorages, and the freedom of life under sail.
I am 78 years old, in excellent health, physically active, and have more than 60 years of offshore and maritime experience. I’m a retired professional with an easygoing, old-hippie outlook on life. I value good judgment, self-reliance, humor, honesty, and mutual respect.
What I’m Looking For
I’m seeking crew interested in a minimum six-month commitment, with the possibility of a longer-term or permanent arrangement if we are a good fit.
The ideal crew member (or one-berth team) will have:
- At least 10,000 offshore ocean miles and substantial cruising experience
- The ability to safely operate the vessel independently when required (including moving between anchorages or ports while I am ashore)
- Confidence standing offshore watches, reefing and handling sails, anchoring, docking, troubleshooting common systems, and going aloft when necessary
- The temperament to live aboard, work cooperatively, and solve problems without drama
What I Offer
This is more than a crew position—it is an opportunity to participate in a flexible offshore cruising lifestyle.
- All normal onboard expenses are covered by the boat, including food, fuel, port fees, maintenance, and cruising costs
- A modest stipend may be available for highly qualified applicants
- I am able to single-hand shorter inshore passages, giving you flexibility to go ashore, travel home periodically, or explore independently
- Paid maintenance or upgrade work aboard Surrender may be available while in port
- You are free to accept compatible marine work on other boats (deliveries, charters, etc.) when schedules allow
- Family and friends from both sides are welcome to visit aboard
The Adventure
The initial voyage begins in Humboldt Bay and heads south toward Panama, with opportunities to explore along the way. I prefer longer offshore passages, remote anchorages, and minimizing time in marinas. Beyond that, I am flexible, and cruising decisions will reflect mutual interests.
Good Fit
Applicants should be physically capable of offshore sailing demands, including sail handling, deck work in all conditions, and climbing aloft when required.
While I am open to exceptional applicants of any age, most strong candidates will likely be under 50.
Personal and professional references will be exchanged. Personality fit is as important as sailing experience.
What I’m Looking for in Crew
Crew should be English-speaking, confident in the water, and comfortable at sea (rarely seasick or able to manage it effectively). Clear communication, organization, and a low-drama approach are essential.
You do not need to be a “perfect sailor,” but you do need to be competent, willing, and engaged. Offshore miles and familiarity with common systems (diesel engines, AC/DC systems, marine electronics) are important, but attitude matters equally.
You should travel light and be comfortable in close quarters. Clean, tidy habits are non-negotiable. A sense of humor helps, as does the ability to cook and contribute without prompting.
Respectful behavior onboard is essential. Keep politics and religion private. Be straightforward, kind, and easy to live with. Trust and discretion matter.
- No pets
- No bicycles
- Earbuds are fine and often useful
- Surfboards, SUPs, and dive gear are welcome (no onboard compressor)
Lifestyle Onboard
- Food: Flexible and generally open; most reasonable diets can be accommodated
- Alcohol: Prefer non-drinkers, but moderate and responsible drinking is acceptable
- Smoking: Prefer non-smokers; if you smoke, limited to the aft deck, downwind
- Nudity: Not an issue either way—this is a private working boat
- Romance: Not part of this arrangement
How the Boat Runs
I have spent most of my life single-handing and still do. This is not a charter operation or a floating party. It is a working passagemaking vessel operated seriously, with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and seamanship.
We anchor out whenever practical, remain self-sufficient, and minimize marina time. Life aboard includes a mix of short coastal hops and longer offshore passages with overnight watches.
Everyone contributes. There is no permanent passenger role. Cooking, cleaning, maintenance, and watchstanding are shared. The boat is kept clean, functional, and ready to move.
I am not getting younger, and Surrender is a substantial offshore vessel. The right crew extends both my range of travel and the longevity of continued exploration. In return, you gain the opportunity to live and cruise aboard a serious passage making boat with costs covered while underway and things are operating normally.
Final Notes
A face-to-face meeting (or Zoom equivalent) is strongly preferred. Applicants within roughly 2,500 miles are more likely to be interviewed in person, though distance is not an absolute barrier if the fit appears strong.
What matters most is compatibility, reliability, experience, and the ability to function as part of a small, capable offshore team—not just fair-weather sailing.
If you join, you should be comfortable leaving the vessel in capable hands and expecting the same in return.
Final routing remains flexible, and crew input will be considered.
If this resonates, please reach out and begin a conversation.
Thanks for listening.
