Pelagic Blue Cruising Services

Gio and Julie Cappelli took a “seabattical” from their careers as marine biologists in 2021 and opted not to return to terrestrial life. They’ve since graduated from Skagit Valley College’s Marine Maintenance Technology program, earned ABYC and NMEA certifications, and are USCG Masters. They’ve sailed 30,000 miles through the Pacific, plus 10,000 miles as expedition staff on National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions ships in Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. They lead sail training expeditions in their favorite places across the globe that focus on preparing students for safe and comfortable bluewater cruising on their own boats. In addition to running Pelagic Blue, they teach offshore cruising workshops and classes with John Neal of Mahina Offshore Services and the American Sailing Association (ASA). When not at sea they enjoy hiking, fishing, planning their next cruise, and helping their clients prepare to set sail.

Gio Cappelli is an ABYC certified Marine Diesel Engines and Marine Systems Technician. He’s been working on cars, boats, and houses for decades and previously worked as a fish biologist and motorboat operator instructor for the Department of Interior. He loves a good mechanical or electrical challenge and is a champion spearfisherman. His life goal is to spearfish in every ocean on the planet. Brrr!

Julie Cappelli used to be terrified of electricity but is now ABYC certified in Marine Electrical and a NMEA certified Electronics and Advanced NMEA2000 Installer. She’s been trying to grow a set of gills her entire life, and has worked as a marine biologist, scuba instructor, and expedition leader. She loves a good electrical or cruising logistics challenge and is an absolute genius when it comes to tracking down the gremlins hiding in your boat’s networks. Her life goal is to meet every species of whale in every ocean on the planet. There are about 94 currently recognized species and so far, she's got 18!