GEM Yacht Charter

Captain Gordon Henderson's journey in the maritime world started in Newport, RI, where he fell in love with sailing as a kid. His parents, both avid sailors, influenced his lifelong passion for the sea. As a child, Gordon was an enthusiastic surfer, skateboarder, and snowboarder, while also excelling in competitive sports. He captained his high school varsity soccer team during his junior and senior years and achieved a ranking of third in the state for freestyle swimming. His summers were spent at the Ida Lewis Yacht Club, where he honed his sailing skills, further cementing his love for boating.
Gordon's professional journey into yachting began in earnest during his college years, working as a mate on yachts each summer. After earning a BS in Business Management from Plymouth State University, he committed to a full-time yachting career at age 22. By 25, Gordon had obtained his 100-ton USCG Captain's License and was captaining sailing yachts. His certifications, including a 200-ton RYA Yachtmaster, MCA Approved Engine Course (A.E.C.), First Aid CPR, and PADI Open Water Diver, perfectly reflect his motto, “Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn”. Over the past 21 years, he's sailed far and wide, gaining tons of experience along the way. From steering both motor and sailing yachts to leading trips across the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, Gordon's done it all. He's racked up over 140,000 miles at sea, becoming a pro at navigating through any conditions.
Whether he's captaining motor or sailing yachts, Gordon's known for keeping things ship-shape and safe. Gordon prefers an interactive charter style, enjoying guest engagement, excursions, and watersports, while also understanding the need for tranquility. His favorite destinations include the Galapagos for its unique wildlife, New Zealand for its diverse landscapes and welcoming people, and the British Virgin Islands for their vibrant atmosphere. His extensive experience, combined with his passion for yachting, and positivity, ensures that he creates unforgettable charter experiences for his guests.