I’ve been coming to cape every summer for as long as I can remember. When it’s not summer, I am in New York City studying musical theatre at Marymount Manhattan College. I have been a camp counselor, and have served at restaurants for multiple summers on the Cape. But this summer I wanted to try something completely different.
Rewinding back to summer ‘25, my family and I went on a sunset sail with the Hindu crew. I have always loved the ocean so the idea of being on a sailboat sounded like heaven. Stepping onto this beautiful one hundred year old boat, I noticed there was an all female crew. When the crew asked for volunteers to hoist up the sails, I felt inspired to assist these strong women with this task. As I sat back down, I realized how strong, personable, and quick paced you have to be to sail. In my other jobs, I certainly had to master customer service, but this job had another layer of challenges and excitements. So when I saw they were looking for crew for Hindu Charters, I jumped at the opportunity.
Learning to sail with no prior knowledge or experience was one of the most challenging, yet rewarding experiences. I had to learn a whole new set of terminology and vocabulary. I had to apply that vocabulary to the actual actions of sailing. I was terrified, not only of messing up but of the amount I had to pick up quickly. But once I ripped the bandaid off and sailed for the first time, I knew I would be able to improve.
At school, I do ballet, tap and jazz every morning, which has given me strength and balance. Very important for sailing. My dancing background has made it easier for me to sweat lines and raise the sails. My ability to perform in front of an audience has helped me with the conversation part of the sail. Being personable and friendly is just as important as knowing how to sail. My crew mates and captain have been incredibly encouraging throughout this process. The Hindu does truly feel like a family. I am honored to be working on such a historical boat this summer season!