Happy Sailing Academy

Our Team

The people behind every course, every experience, and every smile on the water.

Happy Sailing is built on a shared love of the water and a commitment to teaching. Our team brings together decades of sailing experience, professional certifications, and a genuine passion for helping people find their sea legs — whether it's a first afternoon sail or an offshore passage.

Suzie McGovern — Enrollment Specialist and Strategy
Enrollment Specialist & Strategy

Suzie McGovern

Suzie supports student onboarding, scheduling, and program planning, helping sailors find the right pathway through courses and experiences while supporting the long-term growth of Happy Sailing.

Student Onboarding Program Planning
Ken Bourne — Instructor
Instructor

Ken Bourne

Instructor for Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Cruising. Ken holds a Catamaran Endorsement and ASA certifications 101–104. He brings extensive experience across monohulls and catamarans, with a strong emphasis on seamanship, systems knowledge, and offshore preparation.

Catamaran Endorsed ASA 101–104 3,000+ NM Inland, Coastal & Offshore
Hilary Crist — Instructor
Instructor

Hilary Crist

Instructor for Intro and Start Keelboat programs. Hilary focuses on building confidence and comfort on the water, creating a supportive learning environment for new sailors taking their first steps into sailing.

Intro Programs Start Keelboat

Ready to Sail With Us?

Whether you're brand new to sailing or ready for your next certification, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.