Captain Bill

With more than 50 years on the water, Captain Bill brings a lifetime of boating experience, local knowledge, and a passion for sharing Destin with every guest.

His journey began in 1975 as a deckhand in Destin, and in 1984 he earned his U.S. Coast Guard 100 Ton Master’s Captain’s License. Since then, he has spent over five decades working as both a deckhand and captain, navigating the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast while helping guests create unforgettable memories.

Although he dedicated his professional career to serving our country, the water was never far away. In 1986, he began working for the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of the Air Force, where he built an impressive career spanning more than 39 years before retiring. Even while working full-time, he continued captaining boats on weekends, holidays, and even during his vacation time because his passion for being on the water never faded. Whether fishing, sharing local stories, or introducing visitors to the beauty of Crab Island, boating has always been more than a job—it has been a way of life.

His dedication to learning is just as impressive as his time on the water. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Computer Science, bringing a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to everything he does.

Originally born in Maryland in 1956, he moved to Fort Walton Beach in 1968 before settling in Destin in 1976. Having called the Emerald Coast home for nearly six decades, he has watched the area grow while developing an unmatched understanding of its waterways, wildlife, and hidden gems.

When you step aboard, you’re not just booking a boat tour—you’re exploring Crab Island with a captain whose lifetime of experience, commitment to safety, and genuine love for the Destin area help make every trip memorable.