VERIFICATION & Credentials
Captain Tom's Credentials
For insurance carriers, brokers, and vessel owners doing due diligence: this page contains my full USCG Merchant Mariner Credential details, professional background, and verification documents. Anything an underwriter needs to add me as a named captain to your policy is available here or in the downloadable submission form below.
If your underwriter needs anything beyond what's on the form, contact me directly at tom@captainoffshore.com or 248.497.5791.
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Any active U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential can be verified directly with the USCG National Maritime Center. Use the Mariner Reference Number above to confirm my credentials independently.
Most marine insurance policies require a named-captain rider when an owner engages a professional mariner for vessel delivery or instructional services. The submission form below is formatted for direct use by your underwriting department — it includes my full credential details, the Mariner Reference Number, and an Owner's Affirmation section for the vessel owner to complete and sign.
If your underwriter needs anything beyond what's on the form, contact me directly at tom@captainoffshore.com or 248.497.5791.
ABOUT
Professional Background
Engineering and industry experience B.S. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan Dearborn, 1993.
Thirty-six years in the automotive, commercial truck, and marine supply industry before retiring to operate Offshore Captain Services full-time. The engineering background changes how I read an engine room and how I prepare for a delivery — I treat every vessel like a system, because that's what it is.
A life on the water Raised on the Great Lakes. Six years working in a marina. Operated a boat cleaning and detailing company. Experience operating all types of power boats on the Great Lakes and Near Coastal waters.
MARITIME LEADERSHIP
Ford Yacht Club
Leadership at a yacht club isn't ceremonial — it's operational. The Commodore role and years on the Board taught me to think about boating from the perspective of the membership, the dock crew, and the safety of every boat in the harbor. That perspective travels with me onto every vessel I run.
Past Commodore, 2004–2006
Board of Directors, three years
President, Ford Yacht Club Past Commodores, 2022–present
WHAT DO THESE MEAN?
What These Credentials Mean in Practice
100 GT Master, Great Lakes and Inland Waters authorizes me to command vessels up to 100 Gross Register Tons on the Great Lakes and U.S. inland waters. That covers the full range of recreational power vessels — from the boat you just upgraded to, on up to the larger yachts cruising the Great Lakes recreationally.
50 GT Master, Near Coastal extends my authorization to coastal waters within 200 nautical miles of shore. Relevant if you're planning to take a vessel south to the Atlantic or Gulf, or transiting near-coastal waters for any leg of a longer voyage.
Commercial Assistance Towing endorsement authorizes me to perform commercial towing operations — relevant for owners who may need underway assistance during a delivery, and a credential that insurance carriers specifically look for.
READY TO GET STARTED?
Working with Captain Tom
If you're ready to discuss a delivery, coaching package, or consulting engagement, get in touch below.
If you're an insurance broker, agent, or yacht club referrer who'd like to add Offshore Captain Services to your preferred-captain list, I'd welcome the conversation.
Or give me a call at (248)-497-5791. If I'm on the water, I'll call you back same day.