Bitter End Yacht Club - Nick Putman

Nick Putman

Marina Manager, Bitter End Yacht Club, Virgin Gorda, BVI

‍

How long have you been at the marina, and what brought you here?

I initially came to work for Bitter End in 2013 as a sailing/windsurf instructor within the watersports team. In 2016, the marina manager asked me to be her assistant, and I jumped at the opportunity.

What in life prepared you for this job?

My parents always hosted parties and get-togethers with family or friends. They were my first great examples of what hospitality looks like. I then worked eight summers as a sailing instructor, where I put my own hospitality and customer service skills to the test. I found out through the summer seasons that I enjoyed working in the industry, which made me pursue opportunities in the warmer Caribbean climate. I knew the marine industry in Michigan would only support me for half of the year!

If you could walk in anyone’s shoes for a day, who would it be?

John Frusciante shredding guitar for a sold-out Red Hot Chili Peppers concert. To be clear — I am no good, but I would love to know what it feels like to play like that in front of thousands of people!

You work in paradise. Where do you go on vacation?

I love to travel, so I take vacations to new places as much as possible. This summer, I visited Costa Rica, Hawaii and Thailand. Because I live far from my home in Michigan, I also go back to see family and friends for part of my annual vacation.

Name the top three favorite boating songs on your playlist.

“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass, “Southern Cross” by Crosby, Stills & Nash and “Set Sail” by The Movement.

Describe the perfect meal. What would you eat, and where would you go?

Marinated flank steak, rice pilaf and asparagus made by my mom and dad, enjoyed together on our back porch.

What is the most important item to always keep on a boat?

Rum!

What is the one thing everyone should do or see at your marina?

Tie off in the marina and hop in your dinghy to cruise the entire North Sound/ Eustatia Sound for snorkeling, bars, restaurants and secluded beaches. I’ve been here for 10 years and am still exploring and discovering. There is so much to see and do for a relatively small area.

Describe yourself in three words.

Living The Dream.

What makes your marina special or different than other destinations?

It’s naturally protected by land and reef with no break walls to take away from the view, so you can see crystal clear water all the way to the bottom. Plus, we have the friendliest and most fun marina staff on the planet.