American Sailing announces with great sadness the unexpected passing of its Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Payne, earlier this week. Jonathan was not only a guiding force within the organization but also a mentor, collaborator, and friend to many across the sailing and boating communities.
Peter Isler, two-time America’s Cup winner and ASA Chairman of the Board, said, “Jonathan came to the ASA in 2020 during a period of significant growth and change. Working as Chief Marketing Officer under the tutelage of CEO and ASA Founder Lenny Shabes, Jonathan gained a strong understanding of the company’s foundation – the ASA Educational System and network of sailing schools and sailing instructors. He also applied his unique skills in his areas of expertise, helping expand ASA’s visibility and online presence through new educational tools, industry partnerships, and marketing and membership programs. After Lenny’s unexpected passing in 2023, Jonathan stepped up, capably taking the helm – continuing our course and working with the Board to develop significant new programs like our new powerboat education division – American Boating. He was an inspiring presence to all who knew him and swiftly became a respected and loved leader with our staff. Words cannot express how much we will miss him as a friend and as the man who held the helm of ASA so competently – providing inspiration and respect to all of us who had the honor to work with him.“
Jonathan led American Sailing with a rare combination of creativity, strategic insight, and genuine compassion. His background as an artist, musician, writer, and comedian brought a unique warmth and humanity to his leadership. A big personality with a gentle demeanor, Jonathan supported the people around him wholeheartedly—always ready with encouragement, a shared laugh, or a thoughtful perspective that helped others see new possibilities.
“Sailing lost a champion and a fan this week. At American Sailing, we lost a little bit of our soul,” said Cindy Shabes, President, American Sailing. “Jonathan’s smile lit up our screens. His voice steadied us. His presence lifted us. While we mourn, we will continue to work to support the sport and the community which he loved so much.
A sailor at heart, Jonathan discovered sailing in 2011 and earned certifications through ASA 104 Bareboat Cruising. His personal connection to the water infused his leadership with authenticity and intention. This year, as he oversaw the rollout of American Boating, he earned his AB 101 and AB 103 Powerboating Certifications —continuing to deepen his understanding of the community he served.
American Sailing remains committed to its mission and to the work Jonathan championed. The organization has implemented an interim leadership structure to ensure continuity during this transition, and will share additional updates in the coming weeks.
In maritime tradition, eight bells mark the end of a watch. Today, American Sailing strikes eight bells for Jonathan Payne—a leader, a mentor, a sailor, and a friend whose watch ended far too soon.
Our hearts are with Jonathan’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those across the boating world whose lives he touched.
