What does it look like when you refuse to choose between career and adventure? Casey and Steve have found that sweet spot—spending half the year aboard their 50-foot aluminum sailboat and the other half working as expedition leaders on ships traveling to Antarctica and the Arctic.
Their story begins at a whale research station in British Columbia, where marine biologist Casey met Steve, who was leading paddleboard expeditions through the Great Bear Rainforest. Their shared passion for the ocean quickly evolved into a relationship and eventually led them to purchase their first boat together. After outgrowing their 30-footer, they set their sights on finding an expedition vessel capable of high-latitude sailing.
Through an unexpected connection, they discovered their current boat before it was even officially for sale. What followed was a six-month refit that transformed the vessel from a solo sailor's minimalist setup to their dream home. They converted storage space into a comfortable V-berth cabin, completely refinished the interior with two-part epoxy paint, added a hard aluminum dodger for protection and rainwater collection, and prepared the boat for challenging conditions.
Their sailing adventures have already been impressive, including a figure-eight circumnavigation of New Zealand that took them through the notorious Roaring 40s, facing 42-knot winds and challenging sea states. Between sailing journeys, they work on expedition ships and in the film industry, supporting survival reality shows in remote locations—careers that complement their passion for exploration.
Casey and Steve offer a refreshing perspective on the cruising lifestyle—one that doesn't require abandoning professional ambitions. Their balanced approach provides financial stability while still allowing them to pursue their dream of eventually sailing to Antarctica and through the Northwest Passage.
Ready to reimagine what your sailing life could look like? Listen now to discover how these two adventurers have crafted a life that truly offers the best of both worlds.
SALTY ABANDON: Cap'n Tinsley, Orange Beach, AL:
Oct 2020 to Present - 1998 Island Packet 320;
Nov 2015-Oct 2020; 1988 Island Packet 27
Feb-Oct 2015 - 1982 Catalina 25
SALTY PODCAST is LIVE every Wed at 6pm Central and is all about the love of sailing!
YOUTUBE PLAYLIST: https://tinyurl.com/SaltyPodcastPlaylist
PODCAST TOOLS:
Livestream: Https://streamyard.com/pal/d/5430067749060608
Create AI Clips: https://klap.app/?via=SaltyAbandon
Podchaser is the ultimate destination for podcast data, search, and discovery. Learn More