It takes a lot of work to keep things running smoothly at Olson's Classic Yachts. Come meet the crew!
Charlie
Charlie is never happier than when he’s on the water or fooling about in the boat yard. More importantly, he’s the logistical mind behind our scheduling system. He spent the past 18 years or so analyzing consumer usage of fractional leased sailboats and has gradually honed a system that makes the fractional sailing experience mimic that of the ownership experience--without, of course, the hassles of maintenance. It’s beautiful in its simplicity.
And if you ever want to get yourself into a long conversation just start talking to Charlie about boats. We guarantee that you will have a good and long conversation as there are not many boats or designers that Charlie is not more than familiar with.
And if you ever want to get yourself into a long conversation just start talking to Charlie about boats. We guarantee that you will have a good and long conversation as there are not many boats or designers that Charlie is not more than familiar with.
Marilyn
When you call, you’ll most often reach Marilyn, which is good as everyone seems to agree she’s about as pleasant as they come. She keeps the books, does the rigging and generally makes sure that the rest of us are where we should be, doing what needs doing. She’s usually the first to recommend that we take a break for a Southern Comfort manhattan, which – we all agree – is not a bad trait at all for a sailor.
Captain Gary
Gary, a licensed Captain, has been working with us since 2011 and is responsible for sailing instruction, checkouts and the maintenance and overall care of the fleet. A skilled ships mechanic and general boat work wizard, Gary keeps the boats ship shape and seaworthy as well as handling upgrades and improvements. He is also avid racer competing in the Chicago to Mackinac Race annually as well as Wednesday night beercan races and a host of other races on the great lakes. Gary has a passion for sailing and teaching and can often be seen taking out newcomers to the sport and leisure of sailing. Gary is a great resource to learn the finer points of sailing from getting the boat to perform to its highest potential to shorthanded sailing, safety at sea and navigation.
Captain Michelle
Michelle, also a licensed captain, has been with us for some years now and does a great job with customer check out sails and sailing instruction. Michelle has been in Monroe Harbor for well over a decade and got her start as a tender driver for the park district. Michelle is a valuable part of the team with a wealth of knowledge about sailing and the harbors here in Chicago. When she is not teaching or instructing you will often see her at Columbia Yacht Club or out sailing her Catalina "Spinx Jinx"
