Dockhand Don to the rescue!
At St. Augustine Sailing, Don plays an essential role as our trusted dockhand. He ensures every vessel in our fleet is kept in impeccable condition and ready to deliver the exceptional experiences our guests expect. Don’s responsibilities span both the exterior and interior upkeep of our luxury yachts, as well as assisting with docking, guest services, and daily operations on the waterfront. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for maritime care, he’s perfect for the job!
One of Don’s primary duties is maintaining the pristine appearance of each vessel. This includes routine washing of hulls and topsides, ensuring every yacht shines from stem to stern. He carefully removes salt spray and buildup from daily charters, preventing long-term wear and preserving the vessels’ polished finish. In addition to washing, Don performs regular waxing of fiberglass surfaces to protect the boats from UV damage and to maintain the high-gloss aesthetic that St. Augustine Sailing is known for.
Dockhand duties – Inside the vessels:
Inside the vessels, Don takes great care to ensure every cabin, galley, and head is spotless before and after each charter. He sanitizes surfaces, vacuums, restocks supplies, and performs detailed cleaning to uphold the highest standards of hospitality. From scrubbing decks to polishing stainless steel, no detail is too small for Don’s attention. His efforts directly support our promise to provide a luxury sailing experience with immaculate vessels that feel fresh and welcoming every time a guest steps aboard.
Dockhand duties – On the Dock:
Beyond maintenance, as a dockhand, Don is a vital part of our dockside team. He assists with docking and undocking procedures, working closely with our captains to ensure safety and smooth operations. Whether securing lines, handling fenders, or guiding vessels into their slips, Don’s experience and steady hands are invaluable—especially when navigating the busy marina or during windy conditions. His support ensures our guests feel safe and confident as they begin or conclude their sailing adventure.
Behind the scenes:
Don also contributes to inventory control and monitoring equipment needs. He helps identify when cleaning or maintenance supplies are running low and communicates with the service team to keep operations seamless. He works closely with our Service Manager and Operations team to report any maintenance issues that may need addressing, whether it’s a torn cushion, a faulty bilge pump, or a lightbulb that needs replacing.
Perhaps most importantly, Don brings a helpful, can-do attitude and warm presence to the docks every day. He greets guests with a smile, offers assistance with boarding. Oftentimes sharing helpful tips about the vessels or sailing in the local area. His behind-the-scenes work and consistent presence help create a smooth and welcoming environment for both our staff and visitors.
Whether he’s buffing a hull to a mirror shine, coiling lines with precision, or lending a hand to a captain bringing a boat in from a sunset cruise, Don’s contributions are crucial to the exceptional quality and professionalism at St. Augustine Sailing. His dedication reflects our standard of excellence and our commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences on the water. Next time you see Dockhand Don on the dock, give him a high five!
