Mariner, World Explorer, Boat Builder & Pilot
As a licensed electrical mechanic and marine electronics specialist, Ric has over three decades of experience in the marine industry. Prior to launching his own business in 2002, Ric managed a busy Seattle shipyard where he gained a reputation for developing strong teams that worked effectively, on time and within budget. In 2010, he launched a specialized division Northwest Nav, offering design and installation services for marine electronics.
Born and raised in Bendigo, Australia, Ric has lived and worked near the sea for most of his life. As an avid sailor, he was a member of the Sydney to Hobart race in 1986 and completed two trans-atlantic races.
Working as a private captain and engineer aboard a 65’ Swan, Ric eventually found his way to the waters of the Pacific North West via a 110,000 nautical mile journey over 7 years. After visiting countless countries and coastlines, crossing many paths with like-minded mariners and a few ‘close encounters’ on the high seas, the coastline of the Pacific North West captured his heart.
Ric received his pilots license for Australia and the United States and his sea plane endorsement from Kenmore Air. While harbored in Alaska during his last voyage, he gained additional training with a seasoned bush pilot.
Ric’s love for wooden boats has been with him since he designed his first racing boat as a young man. In his spare time, he builds fine wooden kayaks and can be found racing his FINN around the waters of the Puget Sound and San Francisco. His future plans include restoring The Lone Wolf, a 1929 runabout. Website Designed by Hope Rocks.
