OUR SERVICES
Vessel Delivery
Whether you're moving a newly purchased vessel to its home port, relocating between your summer and winter slips, or simply need your boat repositioned without the miles of road travel, Offshore Captain Services provides safe, professional over-water delivery on the Great Lakes and inland waters.
— WHAT'S INCLUDED
Your boat. Your destination.
In the hands of a licensed professional.
Every delivery is handled with the full weight of professional mariner credentials behind it — not a favor, not a hobbyist, but a licensed captain operating under a formal agreement that protects you, your vessel, and your insurance coverage.
Vessel Delivery
Professional over-water delivery of your vessel between any two points on the Great Lakes or inland waters. Your boat arrives safely, handled by a USCG-licensed captain, documented from departure to arrival.
Seasonal Relocation
Moving your boat between your summer and winter home doesn't have to be a logistical headache. Captain Tom handles the transit professionally so you can focus on the season ahead.
Spring Launch & Fall Haul-Out Support
The start and end of every boating season come with a long list of details… Let an experienced captain make sure nothing gets missed. From pre-cruise checks to proper lay-up, your vessel is in good hands.
Coordination with your marina and third parties
Every delivery includes the documentation and communication your marina and insurer require; including a credential submission package built specifically for insurance underwriting departments.
EXCLUSIVE PROGRAM
Add Coaching to Your Delivery
If you're new to the vessel, moving up to a larger boat, or simply want to sharpen your skills, Captain Tom can integrate on-water coaching into the delivery itself; covering docking, boat handling, anchoring, trip planning, or any combination of the Captain's Coaching modules. First Mate Coaching is also available for a spouse, partner, or regular crew member who wants to take a more active and confident role on board.
HOW IT WORKS
The Delivery Process
Our delivery process is simple and transparent:
Plan
We start with a conversation about your vessel, your timeline, and your destination, then put everything in writing with a formal Vessel Delivery Agreement before anyone sets foot on deck.
Prepare
You'll complete a Vessel Readiness Checklist covering safety equipment, mechanical condition, and documentation so the boat is ready to go when Captain Ketelhut arrives.
Depart
Captain Tom takes command and executes the delivery with professional judgment at every turn, managing weather, conditions, and any unexpected developments along the way.
Arrive
Your vessel reaches its destination safely, with the full delivery documented from start to finish. If you've added coaching, you step off the boat a more capable captain than when you stepped on.
If conditions change underway (weather, mechanical issues, unforeseen delay) Captain Tom handles them with professional judgment. His sole obligation is getting your vessel to its destination safely. He reserves the right to halt a delivery if, in his professional assessment, the vessel or conditions present unacceptable risk. That's not a hedge — it's what you're paying for.