Florette’s Owners

Captain Ron Haynes grew up on the ship, moving onboard at only six days old.  He learned everything from traditional seamanship, diving and engineering from his father.  Since 1999, he took over as sole Captain, making him the second-generation sailing the Florette. He has participated in high-profile races such as the Rolex Middle Sea race and St. Barth’s bucket race.  In his 22 years as Captain, Ron has been involved in sail training, kayaking, dive charters, and marine biology seminars (to name a few) and has taken over 10,000 people safely to sea. He is half Bavarian, half English and speaks fluent Italian.

Nicole Haynes, Ron’s wife, has sailed onboard since 1999.  She served seven years in the Canadian Navy training as an Officer of the Watch and as a rescue diver. Onboard Florette she runs the “ship” as mate and is known to be a fantastic cook.

Their daughters, Jaden 16, and Amber 14, live full time onboard. They are “ship” schooled with a tutor through an online school in the UK. They have the luxury of family, a simple ship’s life and travel all rolled into one.

The crew is made up of qualified and very experienced seaman. We also have a private tutor aboard and take volunteers.

Last is the ship’s dog Lucy –  a loveable Spanish water dog, a firm guest favourite.