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.
Alongside his time on the water, he built a long career in public service. 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 a deep 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.
Crab Island Captain Bill at a Glance
- On the water in Destin since 1975
- U.S. Coast Guard 100 Ton Master’s license since 1984
- Emerald Coast resident since 1968, in Destin since 1976
- More than 39 years with the U.S. Department of the Air Force
- B.S. in Applied Mathematics and M.S. in Computer Science
Why Guests Ride to Crab Island With Captain Bill
Bill knows how the tide moves across Crab Island, where the sandbar drops off into the channel, and where dolphins tend to show up near the East Pass. That knowledge is why our captains anchor in shallow, stable water so your group can stand, float and swim. Read about how deep the water is at Crab Island.
Meet the Rest of the Crew
Crab Island Tiki Tours is a family-owned business run by lifelong Emerald Coast locals. Read our story.
Book a Crab Island Trip
Every trip includes a USCG-licensed captain, a private tiki boat for up to 18 guests and a bathroom onboard. See our private Crab Island charters and the private sunset cruise. Captain licensing is issued by the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center.
