Our Team

Captains You Can Trust

Meet Our Elite Captains

Masters of the Water and Safety!

Master Captain Aaron

Master Captain Aaron

Captain Aaron is a South Haven native raised on boats and in the water. As a 100-ton master captain and National Safe Boat Council instructor, ...

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he has always worked in the marine industry, emphasizing boat safety training for all levels.

Waterway Experience

His experience spans from navigating inland lakes and river waterways to the Great Lakes, handling various vessel sizes and types. Captain Aaron has been a member of several professional fishing teams and enjoys fishing recreationally on both Lake Michigan and inland lakes during his free time.

Charter Experience

With previous work experience as a professional charter captain, he has managed yacht fleets for private families, including chartering, delivering, and ensuring care and maintenance.

Safety & Licensing

Captain Aaron's steady hand and calm presence make him an excellent choice for anyone seeking to learn how to navigate the marine industry safely or for those wanting to be entertained on the water while prioritizing safe boating practices. Additionally, he can assist anyone looking to obtain an Illinois boating license.

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Master Captain Arlo

Master Captain Arlo

Water covers 3/4 of our blue planet, and Arlo believes Chicago has some of the best water in the world! Captain Arlo K. has lived most of his life ...

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near the waters of Lake Michigan. Introducing clients to the spectacular Chicago skyline via luxury powerboats is his specialty.

Chicago By Water

Racing sailboats, kayaking the rivers, and salmon fishing are some of the boating activities Captain Arlo enjoys. Experiencing Chicago by water is truly an experience that creates lasting memories.

Life in Chicago

Captain Arlo has traveled the world, including South America, Africa, and Europe. He calls Chicago home because summer in Chicago offers many choices to get outdoors and enjoy life!

Let’s enjoy the water together soon!

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Master Captain Ben

Master Captain Ben

Captain Ben holds a USCG Second Mate Unlimited (an advanced credential that authorizes an officer to serve as a key navigating officer on virtually any size vessel, anywhere in the world, without restrictions on ...

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the ship's size) and a Great Lakes Pilotage license. He’s worked aboard yachts and ships ranging from 30 ft. recreational boats to 600 ft. commercial vessels in the Great Lakes, Florida, and the Caribbean.

Safety First

Safety is Capt. Ben’s top priority. As a captain for hire, he combines professionalism with a friendly demeanor to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

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Master Captain Brady

Master Captain Brady

Brady is a USCG-licensed 100-ton master captain and a National Safe Boating Council instructor with over 25 years of experience commanding yachts in Chicago and the Great Lakes region.

Beyond Boating

Brady also has over a decade of law enforcement experience and is a certified drone pilot. When not on the water, you can find Brady on the golf course!

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Master Captain Charlie

Master Captain Charlie

Meet Captain Charlie—a sailor, financial planner, motorcycle enthusiast, and lifelong Chicagoan with a ...

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passion for adventure. As a 2013 Sea Scout of the Year, Charlie embodies the values of leadership, responsibility, and resourcefulness—essential qualities for any captain. He is also a competitive sailor and coach for the 2024 Olympic women's Laser sailboat trials, bringing a competitive edge to everything he does.

Chicago Waterways

With a lifetime of experience navigating Chicago's waterways, Charlie knows these routes like the back of his hand. Whether it's guiding you to hidden gems or navigating through challenging conditions, you can rest assured that you're in secure and comfortable hands. And if you're in Florida, he's ready to travel to captain your best dolphin tour ever!

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Dani

Dani: Ringmaster of Charters, Captains, and Education

Danica, a nurse and founding partner of Boat Safe Chicago, spent much of her career tirelessly caring ...

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for patients and their families. She attributes her success in connecting captains with students and charter guests to her extensive hospital experience juggling patients and procedures.

Safety & Success

With a strong interest in vessel and water safety, Dani was integral to Boat Safe Chicago’s success. Her submissions to the Sea Tow Foundation locked in Boat Safe Chicago as the winner of TWO 2023 National Safe Boating Awards. Additionally, Danica has written for Lakeland Boating Magazine and numerous other publications as a freelance writer.

Personal Life

Dani is a mother to two daughters. She has a mean cat named Boo Boo Kitty.

Life on the Water

Since 2020, Danica has been a member of the Freedom Boat Club, which gives her access to brand-new boats worldwide, and she enjoys spending her free time pursuing this hobby.

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Master Captain Deborah

Master Captain Deborah

For over 10 years, Captain Deborah has navigated the waters of Lake Michigan, evolving from dockhand to skipper while nurturing a profound ...

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commitment to responsible boating. As a USCG Master Captain, a National Safe Boating Council Instructor, and an active member of the esteemed USCG Auxiliary, her dedication to the Great Lakes runs deep.

Her Philosophy

“I'm not just a captain; I'm your guide to safe boating, creating a world where learning meets excitement!"

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Master Captain Emanuele

Captain Emanuele is a distinguished maritime professional who brings a rare blend of executive leadership...

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and elite nautical expertise to the helm. A United States Coast Guard-licensed master captain holding a 200-ton license, he possesses extensive experience commanding large passenger vessels, luxury yachts, and international charters. His approach to navigation and vessel management is defined by an unwavering commitment to safety oversight, comprehensive operational responsibility, and exceptional crew leadership.

Beyond his impressive maritime credentials, Captain Emanuele draws upon a robust prior career as an international CEO, business founder, and global sourcing expert. Having operated successfully across the United States, Europe, Asia, Russia, and Latin America, he brings a sophisticated, globally minded perspective to the maritime industry. Fluent in multiple languages, he effortlessly connects with a diverse clientele.

Driven by a profound passion for customer service, Captain Emanuele ensures that every voyage aboard Boat Safe Chicago not only meets the highest standards of safety and maritime excellence but also delivers an unforgettable, personalized luxury experience.

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Master Captain Joseph

Captain Joseph, a lifelong resident of Chicago's Near West Side, has been passionate about the water for as long as he can remember.

Maritime Career

Captain Joseph began his maritime career in 2010 as a deckhand at Shoreline Sightseeing in Chicago. He quickly advanced with a natural aptitude for everything marine-related, earning his 500-ton Master's License & 2nd Mate unlimited and becoming a National Safe Boating Council Instructor.

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Master Captain Kyle

Master Captain Kyle

Captain Kyle has been working on boats since he was a teenager, earning his 100-ton master license in 2006.

Mackinac Island

For over 20 years, Kyle has been driving a ferry to Michigan's Mackinac Island and currently serves as the ferry's Lead Fleet Captain.

Additional Experience

Interestingly, Kyle is one of Boat Safe Chicago's young captains—under age 40! He also trains members for our friends at Freedom Boat Club and has experience running a cycleboat in St. Joseph, Michigan.

Safety Training

Captain Kyle enjoys being on the water and allowing people to enjoy their time on the water without the hassle of vessel operations. As a National Safe Boating Council instructor, he is passionate about providing boat safety training and teaching anyone interested in obtaining their Illinois boating license, vessel handling, and safety.

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Master Captain Lisa

Master Captain Lisa

Captain Lisa is a dynamic force in the maritime world, navigating the Great Lakes from her base at Diversey Harbor in Chicago. A licensed 100-ton master, ...

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Lisa's connection to the water runs deep, carrying on a proud family tradition started by her father and grandfather, both of whom were captains.

Maritime Education

Captain Lisa is passionately dedicated to maritime education. She teaches highly sought-after, in-person 100-Ton Master License classes right in Chicago.

Diversity & Inclusion

Captain Lisa is a tireless advocate for diversity and inclusion in the industry. She spearheads numerous "Women on the Water" outreach events and actively supports projects that help young people (especially girls) discover exciting careers in the maritime industry. Her efforts help to break down barriers and inspire future generations of mariners.

Off-Season Work

In the off-season, she uses her skills to repair boats and does web design contract work.

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Master Captain Mat

Master Captain Mat

Master Captain Mat offers his skills as an experienced mariner and a National Safe Boating Council instructor to provide a perfect day on the water.

Professional Experience

As a former paramedic, law enforcement professional, and towboat operator, Mat shines as an invaluable member of the Boat Safe Chicago team.

Boat Knowledge

In addition, Mat’s intimate knowledge of boats allows him to diagnose and repair vessels! He even accidentally sells his favorite boats at boat shows by honestly sharing his knowledge with shoppers. We need to get him a commission!

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Master Captain Rick

Master Captain Rick

Captain Rick is a retired international pilot with United Airlines and holds a US Coast Guard 100-ton licensed master captain certification. He is also an instructor trainer with the National Safe Boating Council.

Group Training

In South Haven, Michigan, Captain Rick leads our on-water group training classes. In his leisure time, you can find him piloting the Star of Saugatuck Riverboat in Saugatuck, MI.

Life Beyond The Water

When Captain Rick is not on the water, you can find him riding a tractor or enjoying other activities on his Southwest Michigan hobby farm.

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Master Captain Todd

Captain Todd is a USCG-certified instructor and 100-ton captain with over 18 years of experience working off the US East Coast, the Gulf of Maine, the Gulf of Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Great Lakes.

Vessel Experience

Captain Todd pilots many different vessels, including traditionally rigged tall ships, oceanographic research vessels, sailing/power yachts, and steel passenger vessels.

Safety & Adventure

Most of all, Captain Todd enjoys adventure while ensuring safety and a one-of-a-kind experience on the water.

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Master Captain William

Army veteran William Shehan overcame challenges after sustaining injuries in the line of duty. Traditional therapies offered little relief, but sailing provided ...

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a sense of peace and control. This inspired him to found No Salt Sailing, a nonprofit that helps other veterans heal through sailing.

Diverse Experience

William's background is rich with diverse experiences. He is a US Sailing Instructor, a USCG-licensed Master Captain, a National Safe Boating Council Instructor, and Shehan Sensei, a published haiku poet. Boat Safe Chicago is proud to have Captain William on their team.

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What We Do

Services for Every Boating Need

Mariner's Learning Academy

Captain School

  • Fully Remote Learning
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Boat Safe Great Lakes

Our Holland, MI-based parent organization is dedicated to fostering a culture of safety, education, and awareness on the water.

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We partner with communities, businesses, and organizations throughout the Great Lakes region and beyond to deliver impactful safety initiatives, including:

  • Public Awareness & Outreach: High-impact regional campaigns that promote responsible boating and environmental stewardship.
  • Tailored Education: Customized training and classes designed specifically for boat clubs, yacht clubs, marinas, and boat dealerships.
  • Corporate & Municipal Partnerships: Comprehensive safety campaigns tailored to the unique needs of local governments and corporate organizations.

Whether you're looking to educate your members, certify your team, or launch a regional safety initiative, we provide the expertise to keep your waters secure.

Contact Dani at Dani@boatsafegl.com to discuss how we can partner with your organization.

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National Safe Boating Council

The National Safe Boating Council recommends that all boaters participate in proper instruction and education before ever casting off. We make it easy to follow that best practice with our comprehensive, hands-on training program.

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We teach a proven, structured curriculum divided into four progressive modules designed for every skill level:

  1. Introduction to Powerboating: Master the fundamentals, boat handling basics, and safety gear.
  2. Docking and Close-Quarter Maneuvers: Gain complete control in tight spaces, slips, and marinas.
  3. Open Water: Build confidence navigating at speed, handling wakes, and rules of the road.
  4. Advanced Open Water: Tackle complex conditions, navigation, and advanced handling techniques.

Whether you're a first-time boat owner or looking to sharpen your skills, invest in your safety before your next launch.

Sign Up for a Class Today

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Boat Safe Texas

Our sister organization at Boat Safe Texas provides comprehensive boat safety training and NSBC on-water training, along with captain services, in the Lone Star State. 

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The Sea Tow Foundation

The Sea Tow Foundation's Sober Skipper program and Lifejacket Loaner Station program truly enhance boat safety training in our communities, helping to ensure that everyone can boat safely.

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Wear It!

We can help you determine which type and size of life jacket you need to ensure you stay safe on the boat while enjoying your time on the water. This is an essential part of boat safety.

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No Salt Sailing

No Salt Sailing provides unique wellness opportunities for veterans. If you are a veteran, you can learn sailing and other maritime skills with the team at No Salt Sailing, all while gaining valuable boat safety training to ensure you are safe on the water. 

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LifeRaft Professionals

We are dedicated to providing education and top-quality products that promote maritime safety, helping ensure that everyone who ventures out to sea is boat safe.

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UIC School of Public Health

Through a vital partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) School of Public Health—specifically collaborating with their Community Outreach Interventions Project (COIP)—we are taking a proactive stance on the water against the opioid epidemic. By integrating comprehensive overdose recognition and response training into our maritime education, our shared mission is to equip local captains, crews, and boaters with the knowledge and resources to save lives. Together, we are working toward a powerful goal: putting a box of Narcan on every boat in Chicago, ensuring that our harbors and shoreline remain safe, prepared, and supportive communities for everyone.

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Google Reviews

Read Our Reviews
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Boat Safe Chicago
5.0
Based on 72 reviews
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William Shehan profile picture
William Shehan
2 weeks ago
Fantastic group. Safety and training is a priority. Highly recommend and they are amazing people.
S A profile picture
S A
1 month ago
A really great experience through and through! Dani responded quickly to my inquiry (which I can’t say was my experience with other captaining services) and was very communicative over text getting things set up for us. She managed to find us a captain fairly last minute for one of the busiest weekends of the summer (air and water show), as well as a second weekend later in the month. We were paired with captain Brady who was excellent. He was clearly highly qualified and made our afternoon seamless. We all felt super safe in his hands and he took excellent care of our family’s boat. We will for sure be using their services anytime we need a captain for the rest of the season and for future summers as well!
Kirsten Melling profile picture
Kirsten Melling
2 months ago
Boat Safe Chicago helped us feel truly confident handling our boat in the marina! We had previously taken our ASA 101 and 103 with another company, and did not feel comfortable moving our 26ft sailboat around under power. Captain Arlo from Boat Safe Chicago came down and taught us on our own boat, helping us get a feel for the outboard and practicing various maneuvers – he’s the instructor we wish we had for our ASA course! Friendly, experienced, calm and collected. We felt like we were in good hands the entire time! We’ve been out by ourselves several times since and feel so much more confident. Thank you!
Julian Travis profile picture
Julian Travis
3 months ago
The training was fantastic!! Captain Arlo was exactly what we were looking for. He was attentive and walked us through the entire process. He went through the safety and operating instruction of the boat from A through Z. We all left the training with him confident and ready to operate our boat consistently and safely. Needless to say the entire family was happy with the experience. Captain Arlo was an excellent instructor. I highly recommend Boat Safe Chicago if you’re looking for boat training.
Gavin Doucette profile picture
Gavin Doucette
3 months ago
Dani and Todd were absolutely amazing. Wonderful crew.
Evan Ski profile picture
Evan Ski
4 months ago
The boat training was super helpful and even though I knew quite a few things already, I did learn a lot. Captain Brady was great with us and very knowledgeable. We did do docking and it was super windy that day so I’m glad he had patience with us in high winds. What a blast it was and I would definitely recommend this course to anyone getting into boating or already has boat knowledge because you never know what you’ll pick up to help you out. Safety is a must and I’m glad we touched a lot on that!
Mary Peterson profile picture
Mary Peterson
4 months ago
Great experience with Boat Safe Chicago! Their detailed website makes it easy to see the training programs offered, prices and book on-line. They responded quickly to my request for training with a Master Captain. Captain Aaron was knowledgeable, calm and didn't overwhelm with information. His tips and guidance were invaluable. I'm a hands on learner and got plenty of time at the wheel to better learn my boat. I now feel confident docking in a slip/approaching fuel docks taking all the stress out of time on the water!
Chris Macklin profile picture
Chris Macklin
4 months ago
Captain Aaron was exactly what I needed to feel confident about taking my boat out for the first time. We discussed techniques, docking, some general safety advice and he gave me some very useful tips for docking and loading/unloading the boat from the trailer. Definitely a good investment!!
Raf GR profile picture
Raf GR
4 months ago
Fantastic experience from start to finish! We rented a boat with a captain for a bachelor party, and it was one of the highlights of the weekend. The captain was professional, fun, and made sure everyone had a great time while keeping things safe. The boat was clean, comfortable, and perfect for our group. Highly recommend for anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion on the water. Thanks for helping us create some great memories!