Jeff Watt
US Sailing Instructor
On Board Since September 2011
Why do you sail?
Sailing gives me a break from the stress of everyday life. It feels natural to me. The wind, waves, smells, sounds and wildlife engage all my senses. If you’re lucky, I’ll tell you about my very special personal shark story.
What do you enjoy about working at OCSC?
The people. I have a list of five goals pinned to my office wall that I try to embrace on a daily basis; connect with others, be active, be curious, learn and give. Is there a better way to describe what it’s like to work with students and staff at OCSC? They’re the best!
What's your sailing background?
I learned to sail from my Dad on the East coast, mostly lake sailing. I refined my abilities in college, teaching and racing. I’ve taught sailing at San Francisco State University, for the United States Coast Guard, the Inverness Yacht Club and at OCSC in the 1980’s. I’ve owned numerous boats and both raced and cruised extensively on the San Francisco Bay and California coast.
When you're not sailing, what can we find you doing?
Managing my plumbing company. I enjoy travel, fishing, skiing, camping, and spending time with friends and family. I’m fascinated by and love to read about high altitude mountaineering. I love to watch Deadliest Catch.
What are your favorite sailing books of all time?
- The Custom of the Sea by Neil Hanson
- The Last Grain Race by Eric Newby
- In Hazard by Richard Hughes
- Nelson’s Trafalgar: The Battle That Changed the World by Roy Adkins
- and In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick