Author Archives: The Captain

We learned a TON

Dear TMCA Trawler Owners and Future Trawler Owners,

I am writing to you to relate a very satisfying experience: being tutored in the art of trawler cruising (and being roundly entertained and well fed) by Capt. Bob Hamilton, aboard the Miami Mermaid, during a 4-day Trawler School Charter.

In May of 2010 my wife Matilde and I decided to buy a small trawler for cruising in retirement. We believed that it would take us a year to find the perfect boat, so we reserved the first available slot on the calendar of Trawler School Charters, namely November 15-19, 2010. We wanted to get some professional instruction in our new cruising environment prior to setting sail on our own. Well, it only took two months to find our 1994 Island Gypsy 32 Europa “Awesome 1”, and we were then in a dilemma about whether or not to cancel our Charter.

Am I glad we did NOT cancel? And How!
We concluded that there is always more to learn, and we needed some vacation in clear waters. We proceeded with the refurbishment of our boat and took part in several very enjoyable TMCA cruises. When the time came to fly to Ft. Lauderdale for the Charter, we were pretty cocky about our abilities and did not expect to learn a great deal at the School.

Indeed! We learned a TON. Capt. Bob took into account our level of knowledge, and he poured on the coals, testing us to the limit and greatly adding to our stores of know-how. He did this all with good humor, care, and all the patience an ex-Marine can muster. Matilde and I came away from the School with a much, much higher level of confidence, savvy, and skills.

There were daily, morning, hands on classes in engine care, maintenance and repair, electronic navigation, seamanship, anchoring, piloting, docking practice, Intracoastal Waterway tips and guidelines, how to find and use sources of valuable cruising information, boat care, Rules of the Road, etc., etc. This was followed by full days of Matilde and I conning the boat from Dania Beach, just south of Ft. Lauderdale to Boca Chita Key and back. We also anchored in Hurricane Harbor, Marine Stadium cove, and No Name Harbor, where we had a sensational Cuban style lunch and a dip in the Atlantic.

Capt. Bob even went over the details of our boat with us and made many valuable suggestions. Here are two examples: our generator is started by the house batteries – not good, because if the house batteries are drawn down neither the propulsion engine nor the generator will start!! Recommendation: install a small generator starting battery, maintained by the genset’s alternator; another: instead of bothering with anchor line/chain markers, measure the length of chain set out per second by the windlass, and count off the seconds of windlass operation to provide the anchoring scope you need for the depth you are anchoring in. Very practical stuff, and much, much more.

Docking practice was terrific, and by the time we merited Capt. Bob’s blessing we could horse that 40 foot Miami Mermaid around like a runabout. It is a single engine, sundeck style trawler, and we are perfectly comfortable, now, with the effective use of prop walk. One engine or two? Our boat has one, and this worried me until Capt. Bob related the following statistics: over 98% of all professional commercial boats are single engine; 90% of all diesel engine failures are due to water or dirt/algae in the fuel (easily avoidable, and the second engine would stop, also, if the fuel is dirty); 9% are due to hoses, belts, water pump impellers, and plugged filters (easily avoidable with preventative maintenance); 1% are due to catastrophic failure (extremely rare in marine diesels.) My mind is at rest with my single engine, and I am dedicated to preventive maintenance – the key to single engine reliability. I am all for the ample engine accessibility and low cost provided by a single propulsion engine in the engine room.

If you are thinking of the purchase of a trawler or a similar craft, a Trawler School Charter can verify that it will be good for you or help you avoid a costly mistake.

Personally, I would recommend Capt. Bob’s services highly enough. If more information would be of interest please visit Capt. Bob’s website at www.trawlerschoolcharters.com, or send me a message.

Kindest regards,

Phil & Matilde, satisfied customers

To see the original log entry as written by the guests, click here

We Took the Plunge & Bought a Grand Banks!

July 28, 2011

Hi Captain Bob,

Thought you might like to see what became of your two (very white) NY students from Albany. In June we plunged and bought a 32 Grand Banks. We took her for a shakedown cruise when we drove her from Connecticut down the Long Island sound, through NY Harbor, and up the Hudson, where she now is at home in Ravenna, just south of Albany. Notice in the photo that, like your boat, she sits forward a bit because of excessive anchor and chain. We’ll keep it that way, though, with the currents on the Hudson.****

The experience on your boat and the instruction in boat selection and buying were very helpful. We think we got a great boat in good shape at a good price. Thanks!****

Bill and Tine

To see the original log entry as written by the guests, click here

The Boating World Will Never Be the Same

July 6th  —  July 10th 2011

Thanks Captain Bob for teaching us everything we need to know to go to the next step……..You taught us from scratch how to navigate and drive a single engine 40′ trawler. You also taught me the difference between an alternator and a inverter plus….the four rules……………stay in your lane, cock-a-doodle-do, 360 degrees and 45 degree’s into the wake. The one thing you could not teach me is how to tie a knot, but with patience I’ll eventually get it. Anyway, the next step is for Sunshine and me is to charter something on our own. The boating world will never be the same. Maybe we will even make to down to Jimbo’s one day…..

Yours,

Martin & Anne aka Sunshine

To see the original log entry as written by the guests, click here

The ABC’s of Trawler Buying

Hear ye Hear ye! Read all about it! “The Buyer’s Bible”This book was written by Captain Bob & Captain Fred of Trawler School Charters for those folks who are interested in Trawlers in general, or are ready to buy a Trawler now or sometime in the future. This is the only Trawler book written on this subject.

Our book will really be of tremendous importance. We included all types of new information that will bring you step-by-step relating to all subjects from beginning to end on the correct procedure on how to choose & buy your trawler. This book should be your very first step to help assist you in making an intelligent and informed decision in today’s Trawler buying market.

If you like to order our Trawler book go to www.trawlerschoolcharters.com $25.00 includes Shipping and handling

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1 What is a Trawler?

Chapter 2 Advantages of Owning A Trawler

Chapter 3 Displacement Hull & Semi Displacement Hull

Chapter 4 Four Trawler Hull Styles

  • Trunk Style
  • Sundeck Model
  • Sedan Model
  • Passagemaker (Trans Oceanic Trawlers)

Chapter 5 Trawler Size

Chapter 6 Accommodations and Layouts

  • Salons
  • Galley Up/Down
  • Stateroom Master/ Guest
  • Heads
  • Engine Room

Chapter 7 Engines

  • Engine Choices

Chapter 8 Used Trawler Market

Chapter 9 Finding the Right Brokerage

Chapter 10 Personal Trawler Survey

Chapter 11 200 Trawlers for Sale (sample list)

Chapter 12 Sales Contract

  1. (a) Acceptance Letter
  2. (b) Rejection Letter

Chapter 13 Documentation and Closing

Chapter 14 Marine Hull Survey & Surveyors

Chapter 15 Marine Financing

Chapter 16 Marine Insurance

Chapter 17 Questions & Answers

3 day/4 nights June 27th —July 1st 2011

Leave a reply

Eric and I had been talking and dreaming about getting a large Trawler and cruising for years and even started saving and researching for when this time came. I was nervous that we would make a purchase, set out on an adventure and find we lacked skill and or hated the lifestyle. Then one day Eric found an ad for Capt. Bobs Trawler School Charters. This was the answer since we lacked the needed experience to charter a barefoot cruise.

The hands on laid back teaching style was perfect for us – me, a teacher, who learns by doing and Eric the engineer who must see then do. Captain Bob’s classes were detailed enough to provide information that was practical and entertaining enough to keep your head from exploding.  Add that to the beautiful spots we anchored in and you couldn’t ask for much more. We are so glad we stopped in Jimbo’s, what a cool spot.

Thanks so much for the experience. Next stop for us is chartering on our own, then who knows………

Beth and Eric

Wilmington, N.C.

To see the original log entry as written by the guests, click here

Capt. Bob Hamilton – Cabin Boy or Guru? You Decide

December 31, 2010

Nous avons passé du moments trés agréables sur ce bateau. Capitainie Bob est un bon marin, un trés bon pedagogue et surtout, un excellent cuisinier! Si vous voulez apprendre a naviguer, il n’y a pas meilleure école. Refiez-vous quand meme: notre Capitaine est un sani personage!

A bientot sure les flots

Edouard et Sabine – Cannes, France

December 27 – 30, 2010

Learning, fun, experiencing South Florida, ICW, all combined in 4 days of cruising with Captain Bob on the Miami Mermaid.

We were at the wheel in the first 10 minutes and enjoyed the combination of boating and instruction based on gaining a quick and practical knowledge of running a trawler.

We saw everything from a quiet island key to anchoring with Miami skyline view. Boating through clear open waters to a major Port of Miami shipping lanes.

We had a great time and learned lots! Thanks Capt. Bob!

Doug & Brenda – Canada

December 13-15, 2010

Captain Bob,

I have two things to say:

1)      BRRRRRRR!

2)      “Final Solution” – good advice!

Despite having to dodge icebergs in Miami & Key Biscayne, it was a fun adventure and a good teaching experience. Thanks for the good laughs.

Mark & Nancy

November 26, 2010

Made port yesterday, Thanksgiving, after a great few days learning the “Art of Trawlering.” Capt. Bob does a great job of teaching you “What you need to know” We have been contemplating the trawler lifestyle as a potential retirement option in a few years. This course was just what we needed to get a taste of what it and what it is not, plus gaining the confidence to go to the next step of a bareboat charter. The ports of call are great and all offer a different aspect of trawler cruising.

The added treat of a fantastic Thanksgiving at “Chez Susan” with all the trimmings and then some, was a great way to end up our adventure. We will definitely be making the next stop toward our own “Final Solution.”

Thanks for everything! (Sorry about lightening your pockets after dinner!)

Roger & Lynn – Rochester, NY & Atlanta, GA

November 15 – 19, 2010

The “Way” to trawling self-confidence.

There is Bushido, the “way” of the samurai warrior. There is Karate, the ”way” of the empty hand. Then, there is Capt. Bob’s “way,” the true way to learn seamanship, boating, and the trawler way. Matilde and I decided to get a trawler and began searching. We believed that it would take a year to find  the perfect one. So, we, in May of 2010 engaged a Trawler School Charter for Nov. 15, 2010, believing our training would be done far ahead of our trawler purchase. Ha! We found our boat in July and Capt. Bob’s book was a godsend, an invaluable guide during our purchase. Now, what to do with our Trawler School Charter? Cancel? No. We decided that ICW training would be valuable as we intended to make our first long trip from Houston, TX to the Bahamas.

Little did we know that ICW training would be 10 times as valuable as we thought. In fact, one of the many benefits of Capt. Bob’s training is that it greatly facilitated communications between Matilde and me (each of us has difficulty accepting instruction from the other). The highlights for me were the training segments on electronics (I have not been able to get from the instruction manuals how to operate our chart plotter). I now feel completely comfortable with electronics navigation. Anchoring, engine (air/water/fuel – so simple, really and now I can out-think problems). Electrics (now I am completely confident with 120 & 12V alternating and direct current systems and how the interact on a trawler. But, here’s the icing on the cake: Capt. Bob suggested that before crossing the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas we do what he calls the “little loop”- Houston to the Big Ditch by the ICW; Big Ditch to Okeechobee – to Atlantic ICW – to Miami – to Key West – to Big Ditch – to Houston. Ideal! All near the service and spares we might need to shake down our vessel and prepare her for foreign exploits. It has been a great experience for us, and meeting Capt. Bob’s charming Susan was a joy! Getting to know the “way” of Capt. Bob has been the best use of our time and money that we can imagine.

Thank you Capt!

Phil & Matilde – Houston, TX

November 8 – 11, 2010

Hey Bob,

Thanks for the birthday Mermaid & card- the cake, champagne and flowers weren’t bad either! The weather was great and the food good. I know so much more now than I did then – Sandra

An excellent introduction to Southern Floridian waters, and what a Big Boat experience is all about. Boca Chita was a trip! Thanks Capt. Bob – John

Templeton, CA

“Unbelievable way to navigate …” Trawler School Charters Reviews 2009

January 5 – 8, 2009

We had an enjoyable cruise and learned a lot. Captain Bob has his own unique and inimitable teaching style!

We had planned to attend Trawler Fest in Stuart later this month, but our plans were preempted by Obama’s inauguration, to which we scored tickets at the last minute from our congresswoman. We will instead attend Trawler Fest in San Diego in February.

While dining at aptly-named Hurricane Harbor, we were caught by a surprise squall. Captain Bob expertly maneuvered us through Biscayne Bay to the safety of Marine Stadium north of the Rickenbacker Causeway.

An unforgettable experience. Thanks for all your hard work and good humor!

Sean and Louise – full-time RVers.

January 12 – 16, 2009

As we wanted to make the “America’s Great Loop” in two years, we decided that before buying a trawler we should attend the Trawler School. This was one of the best decisions we have taken while planning this common project of ours.

So, thank you to Capt. Bob for teaching us the anchorage, the mechanical demonstration, and the night navigation with all these flashing red, green, and yellow lights.

We appreciated also the stories about his experience while navigating all over places.

This was  a great experience for us. We learned enough to give us confidence to navigate in our future charter.

Thank you, Luc & Jocelyne – French Canadians

 

January 23, 2009

Great advice regarding trawlers. Unbelievable way to navigate. Captain Bob needs to start a video trawler school to carry his message to thousands in addition to the few that have been able to take his great school. Thanks for the opportunity to learn from the greatest!!

Ed & Mary – Woodstock, MD

 

January 27 – 29, 2009

Capt. Bob,

We have enjoyed the 2 day, 3 night cruise and trawler school. I know we have tested your patience during this time, but you made it thru. We learned quite a few things we weren’t sure about and now feel we could charter almost anywhere with confidence. Your instructions and on the job training was very professional and well presented.

Thanks, Bill and Mary – Wilmington, NC

February 2 – 5, 2009

Captain Bob,

Thank you for the learning and the patience. You have brought many topics to our attention we had not considered- decisions, decisions, decisions.

Although we experienced record cold temperatures, we still believe owning a trawler can be in our future, but we are not sure about the “pirate ship.” Chartering a trawler and trying a week or two on our own is a great idea and will be our next step.

Sorry you have not been feeling well, hope you feel better next week. Take care. We will stay in touch.

Dorothy and Bob

February 13 – 16, 2009

Captain Bob,

Great guy, great course, great cruise. Amazing amount of solid, practical information and wisdom. All the time we kept saying and thinking “Got to get this right, it’s very important.” One critical benefit that became clear and turned out to be the most important feature for us was your ability to tailor the course to our experiences and needs.

Yummy meals, excellent teacher, good fun …. Except the keel hauling ….

Dave & Nancy – Ithaca, NY

Captain Bob,

Our experiences were more than we hoped for. Many valued lessons will be great assets through our remaining years boating.

Wishing you the best!

February 20, 2009

Captain Bob,

We had a fantastic time. You have been a great teacher. I can’t begin to tell you how much we have learned on our trip. I think you should also be called Chef Bob. We both at elike a queen and a king. Thank you so much for everything. For me you have taken the fear out of boating. What a fun vacation. We will always remember Captain Bob. Please come and visit us anytime. Our door is always open.

Dave & Lisa – Tarpon Springs, FL

February 26, 2009

What a unique and wonderful experience. I can hardly believe how much I’ve learned and the hands-on practice has boosted my confidence tremendously. The choices of anchorages perfect. “Jimbo’s” was never to be forgotten. Our evening entertainment was very “enlightening” and the food was delicious.

Thank you for a special experience.

Elaine “Anchor Woman” and George – West Palm Beach, FL

March 5, 2009

4 wonderful days in my book, learning how to do it right. I have owned small boats all my life, but learned important new stuff from you every day. Wonderful trip exploring the area and staying in beautiful places like Boca Chita. I’ll find out what that means and let you know. Also liked how we had to work through a couple of minor urgencies – remember when you realized we had no reverse? Paula and I ate like royalty, especially liked the large whole fish and Florida lobster. Can’t wait to do a bareboat charter.  First time on a trawler – great experience. Lots of great information that will help us in the future. Looking forward to a bareboat experience – now this seems very doable.

Thanks! Had a great time.

Carey & Paula – Irmo, SC

We had a wonderful week. Beautiful scenery, great weather. From the prairies, we don’t see too much water, just lakes and rivers – nothing to compare to this.

Navigating was a little tough for me but I will work on that. Tig loved driving the boat and learned a lot – slow is the key.

Meals were outstanding, putting together gourmet meals in a small kitchen- we all need to learn from that.

Thank you so much for your hospitality, knowledge, stories, patience, and best of all your boat.

We wish you well Captain Bob.

Carol & Tiger – Calgary, AB, Canada

March 13 – 16, 2009

We didn’t know what to expect! The three day trip was a real eye-opener. The experience and knowledge of Captain Bob, aka “Master Chef” is second to none!

We learnt so much and “El Capitan” made everything so easy to understand with no mystery or magic.

We were made welcome the minute we stepped on board and the food was “beautiful!!”

A BIG Thank you!! to Captain Bob.

John & Sandy – Florida & UK

March 20, 2009

High seas adventures as we rushed to the hospital at the end of day in stormy skies. Good thing they didn’t have to remove my hand! Now you know all you need to know about a broken wrist.

Have a great time at Jimbo’s 82nd Party and remember “to err is human, but to arrr is pirate!”

“Every man is my superior in some way, in that, I learn of him.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Thanks for sharing your superior viewpoint on practical boating! Lots of fun and educational!

By the way, did we mention the great food?

Max & Bob – Atlanta, GA

 

March 23 -27, 2009

Great learning experience. Very informative and Captain Bob is a great cook. Got to see some places that we would never have found on our own. Thanks for the great week.

Steve & Gladys – Corinth, ME

 

May 7, 2009

What can I say – Capt. Bob – captain, teacher, chef, teacher, pirate, everyone’s man!

He teaches by experience – learn on your own “walk the plank if you screw up” which I did, but he is merciful, he did not bill me for my klutz-man-ship. Fun, fascinating, beautiful, adventurous, whether you charter, own or never use a trawler again. A great guy, a great experience.

Brian & Diane – Lancaster, PA

March 27 – 30, 2009

I would say we all had different expectations of what this trip would be like and each day our expectations converged toward the possibility of owning a boat as something we might really do.

We came with our 16 year old son and the Captain made us all feel comfortable using the navigation equipment and driving the boat. My son and husband were comfortable and by our final night I could actually see us doing this boating thing again.

Unusual Classes with an Unusual Captain – 2008

4/14 – 4/18/2008

Great training, great information, great food and a great time and great scenery! Capt. Bob (a.k.a. Cabin Boy Bob) provided them all. Mary and I feel confident that cruising is for us and that we are capable of doing it! The scenery from Boca Chita to Jimbo’s was great! Thanks Captain, what a terrific experience!

Thom & Mary

4/28 – 5/1/2008

Capt. Bob,

You are the greatest! No B.S., no stuffy habits, just no nonsense instructions of how to operate a boat. What a delight. From engine care to night navigation, you make it easy & enjoyable.

If that wasn’t enough, you saved me thousands of $$$ by steering me away from the wrong boat to purchase. My inclination towards a Grand Banks was for all the wrong reasons. Now I know better.

From Boca Chita to No Name Harbour to Marine Stadium you have the most beautiful anchorages on the Intracoastal.

I know that I’m a better captain and a more informed buyer than before your classes. All that and a good time!! Thanks, Bill – St. Louis, MO

5/2 – 5/5/2008

This was one special weekend of great weather, power boat training, and pure fun. Even with little experience in boating, Capt. Bob presented the material in a way that highlighted the important bits and made us feel comfortable right from the first night. Since this was a weekend trip, we got a taste of how to navigate through the congested party areas along the ICW. Capt. Bob’s practical valuates on looking for and buying a boat was very detailed and much appreciated. We look forward to adding experience to what we learned through a new cruising lifestyle. Thanks again, Capt. Bob, and good luck during your trip to the Far East.

Cheers! Ken & Yvonne, MD

5/19 – 5/24/2008

This was a trip of a lifetime. I loved every day. Thanks Capt. Bob for everything.

Kay & Ronnie

5/26 – 5/29/2006

When Capt. Bob greeted us aboard, we learned fast that this trip will be different. All those questions! Crazy accent! and Christa afraid to move around the boat. This all changed quickly. Capt. Bob’s experience helped us calm down, the classes were extremely informative, and- we had a wonderful time. Navigation started to be fine (for Christa); all in all we had a blast!

Thank you, Werner & Christa, Pittsburgh, PA

9/15 – 9/19/2008

We had beautiful weather all week, almost too hot!! We left Dania Beach Monday evening for a blissfully uneventful first cruise; anchoring in Hollywood Marina for the night. Tuesday, we began our 6 hour cruise to Boca Chita. Besides getting a lot of good, simple instruction from Capt. Bob, we also got stopped with the Indian Creek police boat because our bow was riding low in the water. When the surly officer boarded the boat I (Kim) started picturing how I would look in stripes. This guy was incredibly intimidating! After seeing Capt. Bob’s chain in the bow he let us go. Phew!! No Stripes! We cruised on and fueled at the barge (really cool) , then shortly after got swamped by a 60 mph express cruiser. He came to our port side  way too close and way too fast- nothing we could do. We were rocking and rolling! Good lesson on always putting things in a safe place! We cruised on over to Boca Chita without any other problems. We fell in love with the auto pilot today. Dave already had a clue about how simple boating could be and after Capt  Bob’s instruction on the charts, GPS, and auto pilot made me believe for the first time that trawlering was something I could do and enjoy it! Thanks Capt. Bob!! We arrived at Boca Chita in time for beaching and happy hour. What an awesome time we had here! Only 1 glitch: the generator wouldn’t work, so no AC. Wednesday we cruised to No Name Harbor- had a good day and then did night navigation to Marine Stadium- wow, wow, and wow! The night cruise and the anchorage viewing the Miami skyline were fantastic. Thursday we cruised to Jimbo’s. Oh my! We left there in the afternoon and arrived back to Dania Beach as knowledgeable and experienced sea dogs. What a ride this week has been! We had an adventure in knowledge and fun that only Capt and Cabin Boy Bob could have delivered! His approach to teaching and living were exactly right for us. This trip was Dave’s 50th birthday present and it exceeded all our expectations. We can’t wait to charter some trawler trips! Thanks Capt. Bob for the experience of a lifetime!

Kim & Dave, Roanoke, VA

12/18/2008

We came down here trying to figure out what to do next? We own a 38 Catalina sailboat, that is in charter on the Chesapeake Bay. When it’s time to buy a new boat, sail or trawler?As of tonight we haven’t decided, but we came away with a lot of new knowledge. Also, corrected some bad habits. We had a great time with Capt. Bob, we learned so much. One of the highlights at least for the guys was when we happened upon a nude photo shoot at Jimbo’s. We now know the proper way to tie off a boat. How to spin the boat and navigate at night.

Rick & Carol, Philly, PA

1/8 – 1/11/2008

Unusual classes with an unusual captain! He has a great sense of humor. Dinner by candlelight, cruising the Intracoastal, Capt. Bob’s stories of all his travel adventures … we wish you many years of happy charters!

Tom & Karen, Swartz Creek, MI

1/21 – 1/24/2008

What we learned: 1) how far an anchor can drag in two hours in 35 mph winds. 2) how to troubleshoot an overheated engine (thanks Capt. Bob for realizing it was too hot, the crew missed it) 3) how not to flush a toilet (thanks about going the extra mile for his shipmates, thanks again, Capt. Bob) 4) how to destress & relax in the Florida Keys 5) just how much fun Capt. Bob can be, and finally 6) how to steer that trawler and use the damn chart plotter (yes, I will keep it simple). Take your book learning from US Power Squadron classes, but get your hands on training (real life) from Capt. Bob.

Jim & Sue, New Orleans, LA

2/3 – 2/7/2008

Just what we were looking for: an introduction to life on the water and solid education to help us make good choices. We are looking forward to our next step (charter). Great job teaching us the basics and then some.

Pete & Joanne, Atlanta, GA

2/18 – 2/21/2008

I would recommend Capt. Bob to anyone, his personality, sense of humor, and sincere wish that his clients learn the best way to navigate. All his meals were delicious. Charly and I felt so comfortable and relaxed the entire trip. We enjoyed Capt. Bob’s company very much.

Charles & Nancy, NY

3/7/2008

What an experience! “Fire and Ice,” a broken wine drinking record, dancing with a drunken Rod Stewart, the revenge of Mrs. Honeywell (mosquito bites), tag team napping, outstanding food, finding Capt. Bob’s electric whip … but most important – a great learning experience. Now I (Penny) know we can do it. Thanks for everything!!

George & Penny

3/28/2008

From 3 foot snow banks to 3 foot waves (well, I exaggerated about the waves). Capt. Bob doesn’t do himself justice on the website. What a ride! “Stay in the damn channel!!!” Even though I didn’t read the engine book, forgot to buy the “Capt. Bob anchorage book” and therefore was not prepared for school, Bob was the best hands-on experience we could have hoped for. Low key, lots of fun, great weather. Oh, by the way, if you are a vegetarian, it helps to let him know ahead of time. Makes the meals much easier to prepare. Thanks Bob!

Mike & Sharon, Way upstate NY

4/10/2008

Initially the “Tiger” but turned out to be a “pussycat.” Has a great teaching technique – KISS – “keep it simple, stupid.” Great combination of learning and touring. Capt. Bob has picked great anchorages- Boca Chita- and the ghost of Mrs. Honeywell, No Name Harbor- great Cuban restaurant and beach, Hurricane Harbor, great homes, Marine Stadium rock and roll ghosts of the 70’s and Miami skyline, and last, but not least- Jimbo’s. Thanks for arranging the fun and we will not forget, like previous students, “stay in the damn channel” and “which yellow boat to head for?” Thankfull, Don docked the boat successfully at Jimbo’s without destroying boat or dock. This course was a test to see if we liked “trawlering.” We are still on course to find “our own” trawler. Thanks for everything Capt. Bob.

Don & Charlene, Guelph, Ontario, CANADA

3/31 – 4/3/2008

“Sacrifice, sacrifice, sacrifice” that was our fist lesson! What sacrifice? We wined and dined, cruised and camped in wonderful surroundings, with great meals, no cooking, no cleaning, for the three plus full days. If that’s sacrifice, then we want more! After all these lessons, nearly running aground (our fault), bouncing off the dock (our fault), not keeping to the center (our fault), we finally feel we can handle, and make plans to purchase, our own trawler. Thanks, Bob

Pauline & Rod, Perth, Australia

We Learned, We Laughed, and Now and Then We Cowered (and other highlights from 2006 – 2007)

Dennis & Jennifer

12/05/05 – 12/10/05

We had a great time! The charming personality and good looks of our captain will be remembered until infinity! I learned more about GPS this week than 15 years with my boat! Thanks to Capt. Bob we will charter with confidence!

Bernard & Cecile

12/26/2005

Learned a lot on this 4 day trip. Will feel more confident when hubby will decide to charter a trawler on our next vacation! Relaxing, taking our mind off of difficult issues. Doing team work! Thanks Captain Bob.

Susan & Ed

We actually felt we can drive a trawler and plan to go shopping for one soon! Capt. Bob is terrific and we had a blast! Even learned a few cooking pointers, not to mention fish jokes and funny dances. What a terrific adventure!!

Bob & June

January 2006

While switching gas tanks Capt. Bob was nearly eaten by the engine! His prized shirt from Christmas was destroyed- not fun! Lobstering along the banks at Boca Chita – got 2! Ed was fondly known as “Capt. Coco” as he drank coco for breakfast; Susan known as “Sunshine” we actually feel we can drive a trawler and plan to go shopping for one soon. Capt. Bob is terrific, and we have had a blast, even learned a few cooking pointers not to mention fish jokes and funky dance. What a terrific adventure!

Susan & Ed, Charleston, SC

2/4/06 – 2/8/06

Hurricane harbor, very calm. Superbowl party at the Caribbean Club, the locals are wonderful! The food was great too! Boca Chita Key – what a fantastic place, the water was so clear and Capt. Bob fishing, swimming, and looking for lobsters right next to the sign. So many fish jokes. Bob woke up trying to think of more! Don’t ask questions that might get ahead of Capt. Bob, you could get demerits. Capt Bob … we need a trawler NOW!! We loved this! Capt. Bob – you totally ROCK!

2/ 13 – 2/18/2006

We learned, we laughed, and now and then we cowered – “what do you mean you don’t know? Pay attention! You’re not making efficient use of your platter! We won’t soon forget our mistakes. Capt. Bob is a great teacher, albeit unconventional. The Mermaid, the scenery, the fod, cocktail hour, what a ball we had! Good job and thanks, Captain Bob!

Joseph & Anne, Massachusetts

4/4/2006

Capt. Bob’s knowledge- he’ll save us bucks when we come to buy a trawler. A  great day of learning from a knowledgeable guy!

John & rose

3/20/2006

Every day, every anchorage was a new experience. Capt. Bob does a nice job of filling every day with meaningful “but fun!” events. All the local stops with good local food, shopping & views. Captain Bob delivered on his commitment. He made us believe that we really can have “the great life” – the easy, simple way. Thanks to Capt. Bob, a year from now Judy can also say she is retired and living aboard with her mate! We think that Capt. Bob could start a whole new fashion trend with his shorts!

Dick & Judy

4/9/2006

Events to remember: Capt. Bob parting the sea and calming the waves! The walking on water trick was kind of coold too. Dinners at Capt. Bob’s world famous restaurants all the way to the Keys & back. Capt. Bob, you are one of a kind … you will always be our captain! Thank you for a wonderful time! You guys are great!

Capt. Back Packer and Sandi Storm

4/24/2006

Boating can be as simple as it sounds – it just takes caution and common sense. And there is such a thing as the “perfect storm” and if you look for things long enough you will find them. We will remember mosquitoes at Boca Chita, grouper sandwiches, snorkeling on the reef, happy hour at the Marriott, topped off by a midnight swim and the longest 10 second storm of our lives. It was so exhilarating. In short, the most action packed 5 days ever – thanks Capt. Bob!

Gail & Gabe – Toronto, Canada

5/1 – 5/5/2006

As sailors, we’ve learned you can “keep it simple” and have a wonderful time. Following Capt. Bob’s sage advice, the KISS rule, common sense and a GPS make cruising on a trawler nirvana. His knowledge and experience will be put to good use as wel sell our 31’ Irwin and buy our 36’ – 40’ trawler. Thanks Capt. Bob for a great 4 days.

Mike & Kathy, San Antonio, TX

5/24 – 5/27/2006

Swimming! Greek restaurant! Dolphins singing Happy Birthday! Capt. Bob’s birthday cake with candle! Sunset! Waking up! Receiving certificate! Wow, such fun, learned a lot … we even know what boat is our next step … Capt. Bob, what can we say? Great cook, unorthodox but perfect teacher, funny & fun. Thank you for a great & true adventure!

Dennis & Terri Ann, Napa Valley, CA

5/30/2006

Perfect in every way except Thursday (rain). The wittiness of Capt. Bob always a laugh. We learned a lot from him. The salads and dinner were delicious. First night the beautiful lightning off Miami, and everything along the way, coming and going. Bob gives real good advice and suggestions regarding Trawlers. It’s good to talk to someone who knows his business.

Clarence & Rita

8/22 – 8/26/2006

Capt. Bob is unconventional and somewhat unorthodox, cuts out the fluff and gets right to the meat of things. “Bad to the bone.” Great advice on buying a boat to suit our needs and selling our boat.

Vicky & Brian

7/22/2006

Capt. Bob, wow, what can we say? A pirate, a cook, the master of ceremonies, a runner, a renegade, a financial advisor, a caring man, but above all- a captain extraordinaire!!!

Regarding the Trawler School Charters classes- they were presented in a simplistic, yet complete manner. The information about trawlers or trawlering will set us up to now feel confident to choose and commandeer our own trawler. Capt. Bob was informed about all types of trawlers and when we told him the boat we were looking at- he saved us $50 – 60,000 when we negotiate. Oh and lest I forget a new record on the Miami Mermaid, 7 bottles of wine in 1 evening.

Linda & Larry, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

9/11/2006

Absolutely 4 perfect days fun in the sun and learned how to drive a trawler. Perfect Capt. Fabulous experience. Would highly recommend.

Miranda, Goldsboro, NC

9/25/2006

Captain Bob is a no nonsense instructor intent on teaching us what we need to know, and in the simplest manner. How to operate, maintain, and purchase a trawler.

His demeanor is that of a high seas pirate and we told him so, he seemed surprised that we had discovered something , and then he revealed the most wonderous, fascinating adventure from his past. I’ll let him tell his future charter clients or maybe he’ll just wait for you to notice you’re with a pirate. Capt. Bob promised to teach us everything about trawlers and he did that. Thank you Capt. Bob, we got our money’s worth. The food alone may have been worth it or maybe our favorite anchorage, No Name Harbor. We’ll cherish our memories of Pirate Bob and our high seas adventure. God Bless!

Margarita & Ken, Ohio

11/5 – 11/9/2006

Everything was an event and memorable with our unique and unforgettable Capt. Bob! We’ll be trawlering now with confidence thanks to Capt. Bob!!

Marianne & Dick, Falls Church, VA

11/10 – 11/11/2006

Capt. Bob, thank you for a great learning experience and fun too. It’s going to help a lot in looking for our boat.

Bud & Carol, Bradenton, FL

12/18 – 12/21/2006

Places to remember: Boca Chita Key- gorgeous! Marine Stadium at night with Miami’s lights.

Thanks Capt. Bob, for an unforgettable experience aboard the Miami Mermaid! I (Beth) appreciated the simplicity of your instructions. We had a memorable experience!!

Bart & Beth, Granville, Ohio

January 2007

Capt. Bob, thank you for taking some of my fear of the water away. You have been very sensitive to our needs. You have been very sensitive to our needs. Your variety of dinner with the touch of candles every night added a lot to the ambiance. Your laughs made us feel at home. Figure 8 I will never forget, and your eagerness to teach us everything you can made you a very special man. What else can I say? Great dancer, great chef, very clean, funny, and real human being. I’ll miss the bag lady, so sure of herself. You made Leah smile and enjoy herself – wow!

Leah & Chuck, Tucson, AZ

1/25 – 1/28/2007

Two sailors contemplating treason – buying a trawler, rather than a sailboat – yikes!

Fun birthday trip! We felt we were in capable hands. Loved the Garmin- I do have navigating confidence now. Thanks!

Paul & Lisa

2/12 – 2/15/2007

The most important thing I (Betty) learned “We’ve gotta have a cabin boy!” Doug: “Sacrifice, sacrifice, sacrifice.” Time spent on the water is not deducted from one’s lifespan.

Betty & Doug

3/19 – 3/22/2007

What a hoot! We actually learned something (a lot) and enjoyed every moment. Even changing oil was fun (as fun as that can be). Thanks to the great Galley Wench/Cabin Boy/Capt. Bob now we know we are not crazy for wanting a trawler and we really did learn a lot from you.

Mark & Genifer

5/21 – 5/24/2007

We are trying to decide whether to become “trawlers” so this was a great help. Under Capt. Bob’s guidance we feel confident to now charter a trawler. Keeping it simple – we learned a tremendous amount.

Susan & Carolyn, Lexington, KY