Captain Ben Reader
The water and wilderness have shaped much of my life and work.
I spent nearly two decades in the Alaskan commercial fishing industry, many of those years as a captain, where long hours, severe weather, mechanical failures, and high-stakes decisions required calm, competence, and sound judgment.
During that time, I also worked for the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) as a sailing, climbing, and back-country expedition instructor, leading month-long expeditions and teaching leadership through experience, challenge, and teamwork, while emphasizing both effective group function and the development of individual leadership, judgment and responsibility.
My instructional approach blends practical seamanship with a facilitative teaching style grounded in preparation, risk management, clear communication, and respect for both people and the natural environment.
I’m passionate about creating learning environments that foster growth, confidence, and responsibility, and about sharing wild places with small groups through the craft of sailing.
The Vessel
Blackfin is a 1981 Norseman 447, a classic, time-tested “blue water” design that has been extensively refitted and sailed across the Pacific, along the edges of the Southern Ocean, and throughout Southeast Asia. She is equipped and maintained with safety, reliability, and comfort as top priorities, making her exceptionally well suited for extended offshore passages.
The Norseman 447 is a truly special yacht, designed by Robert Perry, one of the finest offshore cruising yacht designers of his era. Perry reportedly dubbed the Norseman 447 his “masterpiece,” and it’s easy to see why. Boats of this era were built with a heavy fiberglass layup, creating a solid, long-lasting hull, while the interior showcases exquisite teak joinery that reflects a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in modern production yachts. Her striking lines draw admiration in nearly every anchorage or marina, and she delivers exceptional handling and balance offshore.
What sets the Norseman 447 apart is the complete package it offers: a harmonious blend of comfort, seaworthiness, and performance. She inspires confidence on any passage, built to handle serious conditions while still providing a functional and livable interior for extended cruising. Unlike many modern fiberglass production boats, this is a true “go anywhere” yacht. She is designed to carry you safely and comfortably across oceans, combining strength, handling, and timeless elegance in a way that makes her a real gem of classic yacht design.
Contact Us
Reach out to plan your next unforgettable sailing adventure with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join?
Individuals and small groups seeking deep, personal sailing adventures.
What types of sailing experiences are available?
The sailing program includes both long, offshore passages and coastal, island-hopping voyages. All trips are participatory and involve shared responsibility onboard - but they differ significantly in duration, daily rhythm and proximity to land.
Offshore Passages
An offshore passage involves extended time at sea, often sailing beyond sight of land for several days or weeks. These passages include night sailing, rotating watch systems and a continuous focus on operating the vessel.
Offshore passages suit people who are curious about ocean voyaging, comfortable with teamwork and routine, and open to physical and mental challenge. No prior offshore experience is required; interest, adaptability and engagement are far more important.
Who are offshore passages suited for?
What is daily life like during an offshore passage?
Daily life offshore is structured around watches, navigation, sail handling, meals and rest. Time ashore is minimal or non-existent, and attention remains on the boat, the crew and changing conditions.
How demanding are offshore passages?
Offshore sailing can be physically and mentally demanding. Interrupted sleep, contant motion and variable weather are part of the experience. A basic level of fitness and a willingness to adapt are helpful.
Coastal & Island-Hopping Voyages (e.g. Greece)
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Who are coastal voyages suited for?
Coastal voyages involve shorter sailing legs, daytime navigation and frequent stops in ports or anchorages. In regions such as Greece, these trips combine sailing with time ashore to explore local culture, food and landscapes.
What defines a coastal or island-hopping voyage?
Coastal trips are well suited to those new to sailing, travelers looking for a balance between sailing and exploring, and anyone who wants a mix of hands-on sailing with regular time ashore.
What is daily life like on a coastal voyage?
Days generally include a sail, followed by time ashore in the afternoon or evening, though time ashore is not always guaranteed. There is often time for swimming, snorkeling and fishing, conditions allowing. Sailing remains hands-on, but schedules are more flexible and nights are typically spent at anchor or in port.
How physically demanding are coastal voyages?
Coastal sailing is generally less demanding than offshore passages. Opportunities for rest are frequent, but participants should be prepared for active involvement onboard.
Experience & Participation
Is prior sailing experience required?
No. These voyages are designed to welcome participants from a wide range of backgrounds. Curiosity, willingness to participate and openness to learning are more important than previous sailing experience.
What type of learning takes place on board?
Learning occurs through direct participation in daily sailing activities. This may include navigation, sail handling, watch-keeping, anchoring, considerations when docking and general vessel operation, depending on the voyage.
What personal qualities contribute to a good experience?
Adaptability, patience and comfort with sharing space and responsibility contribute strongly to a positive onboard experience. A co-operative mindset is valued over technical skills.
Life On board
Life aboard is communal and task-oriented. Daily routines and responsibilities are shared among the crew. Conditions vary with weather and location, and the experience balances simplicity with challenge.
What is life like on board?
What is included in the voyage fee?
The cost of a Blackfin berth includes instruction, bedding, meals and provisions while at sea, fuel and moorage as well as access to shared onboard resources such as books and navigation tools. It does not include your airfare, visas, meals ashore or personal insurance. Guests are expected to bring their own personal safety equipment - either a sailing harness or personal flotation device ( PFD) with an attachment point, as well as their own foul-weather gear. Travel to and from the vessel, personal equipment and shore-side expenses are not included. It is strongly recommended that you obtain comprehensive travel and trip cancellation insurance through a reputable company such as Dan Boater Insurance.
What about sea sickness?
Sea sickness is common, particularly during the first days at sea, but most people adapt over time. Participants are encouraged to test any medication they plan to bring before the voyage to ensure there is no adverse reaction. Many have found Stugeron (cinnarizine), available in the UK, to be particularly effective.
Planning & Logistics
How predictable are arrival dates?
Arrival times depend on weather and sea conditions and may vary, particularly on offshore passages. Trips have built-in time for delays, and efforts are made to get guests into port at least 24 hours before departure to clear customs and sign off crew. We do ask that you not schedule your return flight earlier than 8am on the final day of the trip. Many Guests plan a day or two ashore before flying, to relax and explore - but also as a precaution in case unexpected delays arise. You are strongly advised to have flexible trip insurance in case of unexpected changes.
Is internet access available?
Connectivity varies by location and voyage type. Offshore passages may have limited or no access, while coastal voyages may allow more frequent communication. Periods without cell or WiFi (Starlink) connectivity are common.