VAUGHN S. JOHNSON, JR.
Key Largo,FL
Summary
Seasoned USCG-licensed Master Captain with extensive experience commanding vessels up to 100GT across South Florida and the Florida Keys. Proven record of safely operating high-speed jet boats, glass-bottom tour vessels, and luxury yachts through challenging nearshore and reef environments. U.S. Navy veteran with cross-trained shipboard systems expertise. Known for reliability, exceptional seamanship, and the ability to thrive under pressure in fast-paced maritime operations.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Speedboat Captain
Thriller Miami
Miami, FL
04.2023 - 11.2025
- Command 65 ft. jet boat (80-passenger) and 55 ft. catamaran speedboat through Biscayne Bay and offshore Miami Beach
- Ensure passenger safety during high-speed operations while delivering an engaging excursion experience
- Conduct pre-departure vessel inspections, safety briefings, and compliance checks per USCG regulations
Glass Bottom Boat Captain
Key Largo Princess II
Key Largo, FL
03.2022 - Current
- Pilot 75 ft. glass bottom vessel through narrow Key Largo harbor channels to Molasses Reef and return
- Navigate sensitive coral reef environments requiring precise maneuvering and environmental awareness
- Deliver narrated reef tours, coordinating with crew to ensure a safe and educational passenger experience
- Conducted pre-departure inspections to maintain equipment functionality and safety compliance.
- Provided leadership and training to junior crew members, fostering teamwork and operational efficiency.
Fill-In Captain – Independent Contractor
Various Operators
Miami & Upper Keys, FL
- Provide on-call captain services across multiple charter and tour operations throughout South Florida
- Adapt quickly to unfamiliar vessels and operational procedures, demonstrating versatile seamanship
Jet Engine Mechanic
United States Navy
- Served aboard aircraft carrier maintaining and troubleshooting jet propulsion systems
- Cross-trained on shipboard systems including damage control, navigation, and vessel operations
- Developed foundational mechanical aptitude and disciplined safety culture carried forward into maritime career
Yacht Captain
Private Owner
Miami Beach, FL
05.2024 - 02.2025
- Navigated Miami waterways and crossings to Bimini Per owner-directed routes and itineraries
- Supervised crew training programs to enhance operational efficiency and safety awareness.
- Maintained accurate records of vessel logs, inventory control, maintenance schedules, and regulatory documentation for audits or inspections.
Jet Boat Captain
Jet Boat Miami
Miami, FL
04.2021 - 11.2024
- Navigated high-speed vessels through challenging waterways to ensure passenger safety and satisfaction.
- Conducted pre-trip inspections to maintain vessel integrity and operational compliance with safety regulations.
- Monitored weather conditions to adapt routes, ensuring safe and timely voyages for all passengers.
- Trained new crew members on safety protocols, boat handling, and customer service best practices.
Education
Associate of Arts - Hospitality Administration And Management
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WI05.1997
Skills
- Nearshore & Reef Navigation
- Radar & Electronic Navigation
- Teamwork and collaboration
- USCG Regulatory Compliance
- Passenger Safety Management
- Crew Leadership & Training
- Vessel Inspection & Maintenance
- High-Speed Vessel Operations
- Emergency Response & First Aid
- Customer Service Excellence
- Problem-solving
Affiliations
USCG Auxiliary
Certification
- USCG Master Captain, 100GT, Near Coastal
- STCW Basic Training
- Security Awareness
- Assistance Towing Endorsement
- Radar Observer (Unlimited)
- STCW Advanced Fire Fighting
- FCC Marine Radio Operator Permit
- Valid TWIC Card
- CPR, AED & Basic First Aid Certified
- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary — Active Member
- PADI/SSI Open Water Scuba Certified
Timeline
Yacht Captain
Private Owner
05.2024 - 02.2025
Speedboat Captain
Thriller Miami
04.2023 - 11.2025
Glass Bottom Boat Captain
Key Largo Princess II
03.2022 - Current
Jet Boat Captain
Jet Boat Miami
04.2021 - 11.2024
Fill-In Captain – Independent Contractor
Various Operators
Jet Engine Mechanic
United States Navy
Associate of Arts - Hospitality Administration And Management
Milwaukee Area Technical College
ACTIVITIES & COMMUNITY
- River & Drag Jet Boat Racing
- U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
- Scuba Diving
- Animal Shelter Volunteer
- Dog Rescue & Therapy Dog Training
- Big Cat Rescue Volunteer
- Yoga & Fitness
VESSEL EXPERIENCE
- Lazzara 84’
- Pluckebaum 75’
- Sunseeker 68’
- Ocean Rocket 65’
- Chris Craft 20–57’
- Thriller Racing 55’
- Sea Ray 24–55’
- Numerous boats under 30’