About Us

My first experience of sailing was on 505 dinghies in South African inland waters when I was seventeen. We entered many competitions and even did some offshore racing. Once in Durban we all had our spinnakers up and a gale came from nowhere and almost the whole fleet was rolled over, damaging many masts and boats. This didn't deter me and I still loved being on the ocean. Then I met someone who needed a captain for his 50-ton fishing boat. I did the necessary courses and skippered his boat on many weekends, also helping him maintain it.

Later I got my own small fishing boat and had many adventures with it. We had to launch from the beach in Durban and I have a sequence of photos showing us launching into a twenty-five foot back line.

For a while we moved inland but the ocean was calling and my family and I moved to Cape Town. It was there that we made the momentous decision to buy a cruising sailboat, a 37' catamaran that had only been partially completed internally. I set about making her seaworthy and learnt a lot very quickly. We even had a lightning strike and I had a quick lesson in AC and DC electricity when I had to re-wire the boat. I fitted all the electronic equipment. I did the plumbing, fitting all the seacocks, two new heads and fresh and salt-water hoses and faucets.

My family and I set sail from South Africa in 2001. This first offshore voyage to St Helena took 18 days and we were very happy to find the tiny island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. We sailed on to Brazil and the Caribbean. We really enjoyed life on the boat but after a few years made the decision to sell her and went to live in England.

We bought another catamaran in 2007 and this one needed a complete refit. What a sucker for punishment! I replaced the engine and stern drive myself. I replaced all the windows and hatches. I did the carpentry, replacing bulkheads, fitting doors and converting part of the saloon into a double cabin with lots of storage. I insulated the boat with a two-part spray-on high-density foam and fitted head lining throughout. I redid all the electrics, fitted the electronics and solar panels and two wind generators. I also did the plumbing and propane fitting.

Finally she was ready and we sailed from England in 2014 across the Atlantic to Antigua via Madeira and Gran Canaria. We spent time revisiting the Caribbean before arriving in the USA a year later. Sailing and boats are a way of life for me. This fits well with another one of my hobbies, fishing. If I'm not working on a boat I’m fishing from one!

William Pregliasco or Will as he prefers, learned to sail in the boy scouts at a young age and was hooked. First introduced to racing on the lakes and rivers back in Kentucky, Will knew staying landlocked wasn't an option. Moving to Florida four years ago, Will has immersed himself into the sailing culture here in St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas. Participating in everything from Thursday night beer can racing at Davis Island Yacht club to the boat of the year series, several Noods regattas, two years at Charleston race week and the SORC island series. Starting at Island Nautical (formerly JSI), a short stint at Mauripro, Will has landed with us here at The Yacht Rigger where he hope's to grow his knowledge of all things sailing. Will is a floater, just like his position on the boats and crews he sails with; primarily part of the store and office staff, parts research, you can also find him in the boatyard and out on jobs helping the mobile rigging teams as needed. Will has big plans for the future with the largest goal being the Pacific Cup. He and three friends are currently rebuilding a Hobie 33 to make the journey to Hawaii. When not sailing, you can usually find Will and his fiancé working on their new house or at the local bar enjoying a nice IPA.

Frank grew up in inland Alabama where he spent a decade working in river conservation patrolling the waters of the Coosa River. After giving an educational presentation to the Birmingham Sailing Club, he and his wife Misha were invited to learn to sail dinghies and small keelboats with the club which quickly led to a passion for sailing. After several years sailing their O’Day 23 around the lake and chartering bareboats in the Caribbean, they spent 4 seasons cruising the Bahamas and Caribbean on their Leopard 46 “Galatea.” Frank met The Yacht Rigger team when Stephen performed a rig inspection during the pre-purchase survey which led to completely new standing rigging and a long relationship as customer and friend. Still living aboard but currently on a cruising break, Frank now comes to The Yacht Rigger every day as a member of the team, eager to fix all your boat’s problems and get you back out there.

Glenn R. Mooney was born in New England in 1953. (Yes, that was a real year.) He attended Northeastern University in Boston for a few years but dropped out to move to Florida in 1973 where he could ride his motorcycle year round.

In 1980 Glenn accomplished two life goals:
He received his 50-Ton Master's License for both power boats and auxiliary sail.
He was also accepted as a member in Mensa.

He has sailed to five foreign countries including a paid delivery of a 36-foot Pearson ketch to Columbia. (No, it wasn't a drug run.)

Glenn has been a professional sailboat rigger for over 20 years and hates computers.

Always take the sea-nic route.

...

Carrie is a true adventurer at heart, whose journey has taken her from the serene lake shores of Ohio to the exhilarating slopes of a Colorado ski town, and finally to the tranquil waters of Florida's coastline. Raised in Ohio, Carrie's love for sailing blossomed as she spent her formative years navigating the picturesque lakes of her hometown.
After college, Carrie's passion for exploration led her to the breathtaking mountains of Colorado. There, she immersed herself in the vibrant restaurant and bar scene, gradually carving her niche and eventually realizing her dream of owning her own bar. The bustling atmosphere of the ski town resonated with her love for social interactions, making her establishment not just a place to enjoy a drink, but a hub of camaraderie and warmth.
Carrie's zest for life wasn't confined to her professional pursuits – she and her family embraced the outdoor paradise that surrounded them. Skiing down powdery slopes, hiking through pristine wilderness, and camping under starlit skies became their cherished weekend rituals. For two decades, they reveled in the rugged beauty of the mountains, forging memories that would last a lifetime.
As life's chapters unfolded, Carrie, her husband and their two children decided to embark on a new odyssey. They followed their hearts to the sun-kissed shores of Florida, where they exchanged skis for sails. The call of the sea became their new anthem, and they now spend their days navigating the azure waters and gentle breezes, pursuing the thrill of sailing year-round. Their decision wasn't just about adventure; it was also driven by the desire to be closer to family, cherishing every moment spent with loved ones.
Carrie's story is a testament to her unwavering spirit of exploration, adaptability, and the pursuit of what truly brings joy. Whether tacking on the open water, crafting delightful drinks, or cultivating connections, she embodies a life well-lived, filled with passion and the courage to embrace new horizons.

Otis is a cheery chap who instantly brightens the day of everyone he encounters around the office. With his boundless energy and huge smile, Otis is the epitome of "just super excited to be here".

Where do you take a sick boat? To the dock.

JC Klipp is a multifaceted individual with a rich background in military aircraft engineering. Originally from California, JC's formative years were spent riding waves and carving paths on skateboards along the sun-kissed shores of the Golden State. In 1989, he made the move to Florida, where he continued to pursue his passion for adventure and exploration.

When he's not immersed in his professional endeavors, JC finds solace and excitement in the depths of the ocean. An avid spearfisherman and free diver, he spends his leisure time navigating the azure waters on his boat, seeking out the bounty of the sea. JC's love for the ocean extends beyond mere recreation; it's a way of life that fuels his spirit and ignites his sense of adventure.

Amidst his oceanic pursuits, JC harbors a deep-seated fascination with sailing. Eager to expand his knowledge and expertise, he dedicates himself to learning the intricacies of the craft, eagerly anticipating the day when he can assume the role of lead production rigger at The Yacht Rigger. With a keen eye on the future, JC looks forward to the day when he can carry on the legacy established by Glenn, his mentor and inspiration.

Outside of his maritime pursuits, JC finds his greatest joy in spending quality time with his family. Whether it's exploring the wonders of the sea or simply enjoying each other's company, JC cherishes every moment spent with his loved ones, knowing that they are the true anchors in his life's journey.

Jeremiah, a skilled yacht rigger hailing from the picturesque shores of Canada, is a true enthusiast of all things maritime. With a passion for sailing deeply rooted in his heart, he has spent countless hours navigating the waters on small dinghies, feeling the wind's embrace and the ocean's pulse. His connection with the sea has shaped his career, as he pursued the art of yacht rigging with unwavering dedication.

Beyond his maritime pursuits, Jeremiah's interests extend to the realm of land-based machines. When he's not meticulously crafting and perfecting sail rigging, you can find him immersed in the world of motorcycles and cars. Whether tinkering with engines, fine-tuning mechanics, or appreciating the intricacies of design, Jeremiah's mechanical prowess knows no bounds.

Jeremiah's life journey has been one of balancing the open water's call with the roar of engines on land. His story serves as an inspiration to those who seek harmony between their passions, embracing the thrill of sailing while nurturing his love for the mechanics that power our world.

Born and raised on the shimmering waves, Courtney's affinity for the ocean is a defining aspect of her life. Growing up on a boat, she cultivated an unparalleled connection to maritime life that would later shape her career choices. Her love for the sea became the driving force behind her decision to transition from nursing to the marine industry, a shift that allowed her to fully immerse herself in her true passion.

After making the bold career move, Courtney pursued her education at the University of Tampa, where she honed her skills and acquired the knowledge needed to excel in her newfound path. Graduating with a degree that fused her maritime enthusiasm with business acumen, she embarked on a voyage with The Yacht Rigger.

Courtney's transition into the role of company purchaser was seamless, thanks to her innate knack for understanding the intricate needs of the business. Her magnetic personality, characterized by an ever-present willingness to help and a genuine charm, quickly made her an indispensable member of the team. Colleagues often find themselves drawn to her warmth and approachability, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie that contributes to the company's success.

One of Courtney's most remarkable achievements was her recent purchase of a boat to call home in downtown St. Pete. This decision brought her journey full circle, returning to the waters she adores in a way that resonates deeply with her roots. In her free time, she enjoys harnessing her culinary prowess, turning the galley of her boat into a hub of delectable creations that reflect her love for cooking.

Courtney's trajectory from a nursing career to becoming The Yacht Rigger's adept company purchaser showcases her resilience and determination in carving her own path. Her biography stands as a testament to the power of pursuing one's passions and embracing new horizons, a journey defined by the tides of ambition and the unwavering compass of her heart.

He is a “Seafaring Renaissance Man” who loves to race and cruise his 1968 Morgan 30, along with racing on other peoples boats within the West Florida Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (WFPHRF). He has done many Bone Island Regatta races to Key West. If you cannot have fun in Key West he says you must be dead. His Moto “sail as fast as you can to get to the happy hour on time.”

He has had a long career as an electrical design engineer working for General Electric, Lockheed Martin, and Jabil. He helped run a national CT and MRI medical company, taught high school math, and is a thespian whose latest show “Crimson Sails” was with the Gulfport Community Players. Known for his love of improv and all comedy he
keeps people laughing.

On a serious side his passion is designing electronic circuitry that works the first time and is dependable. His early career was designing hydrophone preamp circuit testing equipment for the Navy Seawolf AN/BSY-2 combat system, for a wide aperture array (WAA) and a towed-array sonar. Following up with surface ship system development and then the airborne Low Altitude Navigation and Targeting Infrared for Night (LANTIRN) system. He’s a USAF veteran Non Commission Officer that worked as a Sensor System Specialist in the 1st Special Operations Wing with many worldwide deployments.

He left the service and soon after wanted to follow the Jimmy Buffett lifestyle. An Air Force buddy had turned him onto the parrot-head culture and he was hooked. Bought a big ass boat with little knowledge of sailing, sailed many times to the Bahamas, got blown up on a deserted island and handed the nickname Capt. Sandbar. He is especially proud of his membership in the Boca Ciega Yacht Club in Gulfport Florida. As past Commodore, Vice Commodore, Rear Commodore, Board Member, and many other hats he continues to
fight for sailor’s rights. He maintains a Masters Captain’s License for over twenty years.

There is not much on a boat that he has not had his hands into. He prides himself on knowing how to fix pretty much anything on a vessel. He says “when you’re three hundred miles offshore Sea Tow or Tow Boat US isn’t coming to get you.” Whether it be working with
fiberglass, rigging, stainless steel, diesel engines, electrical, electronic systems, you need to know every square inch of your boat.

He is delighted to be a part of The Yacht Rigger Family and currently helping to design their first electric propulsion dive boat for Eckerd College. He has found that every member of this team is truly awesome in their level of knowledge and dedication to doing the job the best it can be. You’re in good hands at TYR.

This pudgy prince loves fuss and attention, which he gets plenty of because everyone in his workplace adores him. Just look at those ears!

Meet Grommet, the vibrant heart and soul behind The Yacht Rigger, a premier yacht rigging company that infuses passion and energy into every maritime endeavor. Where Rigging Meets Wagging, led by the dynamic and spirited golden retriever, Grommet.

Grommet, the youngest and most paw-some addition to our team, brings a burst of enthusiasm to every rigging project. A true aficionado of adventure, Grommet's affinity for tennis balls and his unwavering love for the water are matched only by his zest for boat rides, where his ears flap joyfully in the breeze.

But Grommet's passion extends beyond rigging – he's also a connoisseur of the finer things in life. Bubble wrap? He's got it covered with a popping expertise that can turn any day into a celebration. Shredding paper and exploring boxes? Grommet's investigative skills are second to none, bringing an element of playful curiosity to the workplace.

With Grommet by your side, work at The Yacht Rigger is anything but ordinary. His boundless energy, combined with an innate desire to learn, brings a fresh perspective to yacht rigging. He's not just an employee; he's a loyal friend and teammate who thrives on collaboration and cherishes every wag-filled moment.

Outside of work, Grommet's puppyish charm shines as he frolics in the water, chases after tennis balls, and delights in the simplest of joys. His infectious spirit brings a smile to the faces of colleagues and clients alike. And when it comes to camaraderie, Grommet's social nature and love for his furends create an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.

Grommet's presence at The Yacht Rigger embodies the company's commitment to excellence and innovation. With Grommet as its steadfast ambassador, The Yacht Rigger sails forward, setting new standards in yacht rigging while embracing the joyous spirit that Grommet brings to every endeavor.

Chris Wilcher is a dynamic individual whose life weaves together a tapestry of diverse passions and achievements. With an extensive background in sales and an innate passion for sailing, Chris has found his niche as the Sales Director at The Yacht Rigger.
Beyond his professional prowess, Chris is an avid practitioner of jiu-jitsu, channeling his determination and discipline from the mat to his professional endeavors. A devoted family man, he cherishes his role as a husband and father to two daughters, finding balance between his demanding career and the warmth of his family life.

Chris's love for the open waters is not confined to his professional involvement alone. A former liveaboard on a Leopard 43, he once sold his cherished vessel to Stephen, igniting a friendship that eventually led to his current role as Sales Director. This journey was driven by Chris's unwavering passion for sailing and his extensive sales acumen, traits that caught Stephen's attention and inspired him to create a new avenue for Chris within the company.

Deeply rooted in his Christian faith, Chris finds meaning in his life's pursuits through the lens of his spirituality. But his spiritual values don't just inform his personal life; they also guide his commitment to growing the Blue Wave brand in the US and elevating The Yacht Rigger's reputation across the nation. Chris's dedication is not only to his career, but also to a broader mission of excellence and integrity in the marine, architectural, safety, and rigging sectors.

As Chris steers the ship of his professional journey, he continues to meld his passions, experiences, and values into a remarkable narrative that inspires those around him, making waves both in the business world and in his personal pursuits

Growing up in Lake County Florida, my home was on a 32-acre lakefront citrus grove. I have spent a lot of my time fishing, camping and swimming near the many spring-fed lakes and rivers. My uncle owned a 19ft sailboat that was kept on our main dock and we would cruise Little Lake Harris.
After graduation I studied Aeronautics at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, where I learned to pilot single engine aircraft. Then 2008 happened, blah blah blah…

After moving back home and working for a year, I met the love of my life, Megan. I saved some money and bought a vintage school bus that had been converted into a RV. Together we lived in the RV with our small dog and moved around Florida a bit. After living in Jacksonville in 2011, we decided to return to the Tampa Bay area.

After relocating to Tampa, I earned an AS in Aquaculture and a professional certificate in Brewing Arts. I have had the privilege to work with The Florida Aquarium, Uriah’s Urban Farms, and Coppertail Brewing Co.

I have passion for the outdoors and fine woodworking. I most enjoy designing, building, and playing my electric guitars.

Finally, I have a strange addiction to working on sailing boats and a naïve dream of owning one myself.

A native of St. Petersburg, since around 8-10 years old, I've spent many personal and professional hours on and around both salt and fresh water. After simultaneously co-owning a family business with my spouse, during careers with the US Public Health Service and being active in, consulting with, and instructing Public Safety, I retired to run my own consulting business.

Wanting to dedicate more time to family and sailing, I semi-retired from my own business, only to meet and start to work with Gulf Nautical in the marine electronics business. After the Gulf Nautical and The Yacht Rigger merger, I semi-retired again, moonlighting with the Port of Tampa, only to be invited back out of semi-retirement, back to The Yacht Rigger.
My friends and co-workers inform me that I have failed at retiring. I'm just keeping busy until my wife retires...

Chris Mulone is a seasoned sailor and expert rigger, whose love for the sea was ignited in the coastal town of Duxbury, MA. Born and raised in this picturesque maritime community, Chris embarked on his sailing journey at the tender age of 7. He spent his youth honing his skills on the waves, participating in sailing races and youth regattas, which laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for the sea.

After years of youth sailing and racing, Chris found himself drawn to the nomadic lifestyle of living aboard a Watkins 36 sailboat. For a significant period of his life, he called the vast expanse of the ocean his home, navigating its waters with the expertise of a seasoned mariner.

In addition to his maritime pursuits, Chris has made significant contributions to the sailing community as an independent rigger. His keen eye for detail and unparalleled craftsmanship have earned him a stellar reputation among fellow sailors. After a brief hiatus, during which he pursued other endeavors, Chris returned to his roots at The Yacht Rigger, where he continues to ply his trade with unwavering dedication and skill.

Beyond his maritime endeavors, Chris is a multifaceted individual with a penchant for adventure. In his spare time, he channels his creativity and energy into the mesmerizing art of fire spinning. A familiar presence at music festivals, Chris captivates audiences with his dazzling displays of skill and artistry, adding a touch of magic to every event he attends.
Chris Mulone's life is a testament to the transformative power of the sea and the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the horizon. Whether he's sailing the open waters, rigging sails with precision, or mesmerizing crowds with his fire-spinning performances, Chris continues to inspire others with his unwavering passion and adventurous spirit.

Over 60 days at sea aboard marine Research Vessels in the Gulf of Mexico to support geophysical science efforts in the US Geological Survey Seafloor Mapping Program.
Over 45 days of small boat operations and formal federal safety and navigation training at sea.

Liveaboard at the Harborage Marina St Petersburg FL for over 3 years on an Irwin Citation Sloop rigged sailing vessel.

100s of hours sailing throughout Tampa Bay and offshore of Florida.

As a St Pete native I have lived with a love for life in and around the water. A day out boating, fishing, diving or just cruising always hits my reset button. Nothin like a little salt in your eye!

Another passion I have developed is custom metal fabrication/welding. With 23 years experience under my belt upon joining The Yacht Rigger, I aim to be a valuable asset to this team and to help make costumers visions a reality.

Nicole's passion for sailing ignited on the Gulf Coast at a young age, where she began racing sailboats at just 11 years old. This early experience kindled her deep love for both sailing and competitive racing. Nowadays, weekends find her immersed in the exhilarating world of PHRF fleet racing, navigating various boats with skill and determination.

Prior to joining The Yacht Rigger, Nicole dedicated a decade to coaching youth sailing, crisscrossing the nation with competitive teams. At The Yacht Rigger, she continues to embrace her maritime enthusiasm, truly "seas-ing" each day with unwavering dedication and expertise.