The Captain
Captain Bob Griffith grew up in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, and acquired his love of the water while spending time at his grandfather's home on the Rappahannock River just off the Chesapeake Bay. His sailing experience began in earnest when he moved to the Carolina coast in 2000, first sailing his 23 foot O'Day, Ex Curia, in his introduction to the waters of the Cape Fear and Atlantic.
He is licensed by the United States Coast Guard as Master of Steam, Motor or Auxiliary Sail Vessels upon Inland Waters, and as Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels upon Near Coastal Waters.
A member of the Cape Fear Yacht Club and Southport Sailing and Boat Club, he also serves as Past Commander of the Southport Sail and Power Squadron, holding the grade of Advanced Pilot.
Serving upon the vessel for several years as Captain or Crew under the previous owner, Captain Bob acquired the vessel in 2006, continuing her standing as the longest serving sail charter in the area.
The Crew
Rick Johnstone ~ Our First Mate, Rick did not come to Southport voluntarily. We thank the US Coast Guard for first stationing him here forty years ago. While Rick didn't remain in the Coast Guard, he did stay in Southport. He fell in love - not just with the Cape Fear, but with a local girl who traces her family back to the blockade runners during the War of Northern Aggression.
Rick has been sailing the waters off Southport ever since, and is recognized as one of the most knowledgeable sailors in the area. He is particularly known for his ability to read the unusual patterns created when the currents that flow down the Cape Fear River meet the tidal currants of the Atlantic.
While sailing with Rick, you will hear stories of the River and the waters off Southport and those who have sailed her. Prepare yourself to be entertained, and educated about the area while sailing with Rick.
He has served as Mate on cruises from Southport for more than a dozen years aboard the 37 foot O'Day before she was christened the Kelly Allen.
