Today we’d like to introduce you to EMILY GAMBOA.
EMILY, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My story did not begin at sea; it began in education.
I earned a degree in Education in Venezuela, where I developed skills that continue to shape my work today: communication, leadership, and the ability to understand people. Those skills have proven to be just as valuable on the water as they are in the classroom.
Over time, I felt drawn to a different path and made the decision to enter the yachting industry. I started in operational roles onboard, learning every aspect of how a yacht functions—from service and maintenance to logistics, coordination, and safety.
That hands-on experience gave me a complete understanding of yacht operations and taught me the importance of discipline, attention to detail, and teamwork.
I later pursued formal training, earned my certifications, and became a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain. Today, I operate private yachts and charter vessels throughout South Florida- Miami, with experience navigating to the Bahamas.
In addition to captaining vessels, I am expanding into yacht management, helping owners maintain their boats to the highest standards—operationally, aesthetically, and with a strong focus on reliability and professionalism.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all.
Yachting is a demanding and highly technical industry that requires constant learning and carries significant responsibility. It is also an environment where women sometimes have to work harder to establish their authority and credibility.
One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming assumptions and proving myself through consistent performance rather than words.
I built my reputation by making sound decisions, maintaining vessels to a high standard, prioritizing safety, and delivering exceptional experiences for owners and guests.
In this industry, credibility is not something you ask for—it is something you earn over time through competence, consistency, and trust.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a captain of private yachts and charter vessels, responsible for every aspect of the vessel’s operation and the overall guest experience.
My responsibilities include navigation and route planning, safety management, technical oversight, maintenance coordination, crew leadership, and direct communication with owners and clients.
I am also developing yacht management services, assisting owners with the complete care and administration of their vessels. This includes maintenance scheduling, detailing, coordinating service providers, and ensuring the yacht is always prepared and operating at its best.
In addition, I help clients source charter yachts and connect them with vessels that fit their specific needs and preferences.
What sets me apart is my commitment to high standards and attention to detail.
When an operation is truly well executed, everything feels seamless. The vessel is prepared, the crew is coordinated, the guests feel comfortable, and every detail has been anticipated.
That level of preparation and consistency is what builds trust, and it is what I am most proud of.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
In my profession, continuous learning is essential.
Much of my growth has come from real-world experience on the water, ongoing training, technical updates, and earning certifications. Every trip offers new lessons—not only about navigation and seamanship, but also about leadership, communication, and decision-making.
I was also fortunate to have the guidance of a dear friend and captain, Santiago Babun, who is no longer with us. He was an extraordinary mentor who taught me not only technical skills, but also judgment, respect for the sea, and the importance of doing things properly even when no one is watching. His influence continues to shape the way I work today.
On a practical level, I rely heavily on communication to coordinate with owners, clients, crew, and service providers. Clear and efficient communication is a critical part of yacht operations.
More than any specific tool, the most important resource in my life is discipline—being prepared, staying calm under pressure, and remembering that safety always comes first.
Pricing:
- My services are customized based on the type of vessel, the scope of work, and the level of support required. Services include: Captain services Private and charter yacht operations Yacht management Crew coordination and placement Charter yacht sourcing Operational consulting Each project is quoted individually to ensure the service is tailored to the specific needs of the owner and vessel.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://CaptainEmily.com
- Instagram: @captainemilyg
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/captainemilyg/
- Other: https://captainemily.com/links/
