Karen Holtan
Karen Holtan is a seasoned yacht captain with more than 20 years of maritime experience, holding a USCG 1600/3000 license and a proven record of managing vessels up to 160 feet. Beginning her career as a SCUBA Instructor and Deckhand, she steadily advanced through engineering and operational roles before taking command as Captain. Her background, rooted in the strong work ethic she developed growing up on a farm, has given her the ability to problem-solve in high-pressure environments while overseeing multi-million-dollar refits, managing budgets, and ensuring safe and seamless voyages for both owners and charter guests.
Throughout her career, Karen has successfully led crews ranging from 4 to 23 members, fostering a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and accountability on board. She has captained yachts throughout Florida, the Bahamas, New England, the Caribbean, Canada, and the Mediterranean, managing both private and charter operations with precision. Beyond her technical expertise in navigation, engineering, and safety compliance, she is recognized for her proactive leadership style and dedication to crew development, mentoring the next generation of maritime professionals.
Currently serving as Captain of the 120’ Gale Winds, Karen combines her operational knowledge with a passion for creating outstanding guest experiences and well-maintained yacht programs. Whether coordinating complex refits or ensuring smooth daily operations, she remains committed to delivering excellence at sea while bringing energy, adaptability, and a hands-on approach to every challenge.
• Scuba Certification
• Washington State University- B.S.
• Griffith University- Master's
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the strong work ethic I developed growing up on a farm, combined with my passion for teaching and leading—whether it’s guiding snorkel and scuba classes or managing a crew to ensure smooth yacht operations.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is, “If in doubt, there’s no doubt,” reminding me to trust my instincts and act with confidence.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are a passion for exploration and continuous learning—whether through scuba diving, growing my skills, or embracing new challenges both personally and professionally.