About Captain
“Meet Captain Andy, (Owner of Empire Yacht Charters), — an absolute veteran in the world of sailing whose passion for the water began long before the New York Harbor. Growing up, Andy fell in love with the sea while fishing alongside his grandfather in Louisiana, where he first developed a deep respect for nature and a fascination with maritime life. Inspired by those early adventures, he turned that passion into a career — and over the past 25 years, it’s taken him all over the world. With over 200,000 professional nautical miles under his belt spanning over the last three decades, Andy has captained vessels up to 95 feet sailing everywhere from Europe’s North Sea to the Bay of Biscay, and throughout both Northern and Southern America. His experience is extensive but his approach is always easygoing, thoughtful, and guest-focused. Andy is the perfect balance of seasoned professional and natural entertainer — the kind of captain who can read the room, keep the energy high, and still run a flawless, safety-first natural operation. He’s often the life of the party with a million stories from his years at sea, but always grounded in experience, precision, and genuine care for others. In 2023, Andy fulfilled a lifelong dream of acquiring a hand-crafted Hinckley Bermuda 40, which he lovingly restored and named Nanette Marie after his mother. Today, he brings that same care and pride to every charter, sharing a truly special vessel with any guests who steps aboard. Known for his warm personality, adventurous spirit, and unmistakable Southern charm, Captain Andy creates an experience that’s both exciting and unforgettable — full of great stories, genuine hospitality, and a remarkably smooth sail from start to finish.”
Aboard since 2024
From New York, NY
Reviews of Captain (19)
- damidami★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Aug. 20th
Absolutely fantastic time on the Hudson. Boat was way cooler than we were expecting. Captain was so warm and accommodating I think we made a friend! Ps fantastic sound system!!
- DanielleDanielle★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)May. 26th
We had the best experience with Captain Andy this Memorial Day! He was professional, easygoing, and made the whole day feel effortless. We were having such a great time, we even extended our trip by an extra hour. Highly recommend, will definitely be booking again!
- SandraSandra★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Aug. 30th
Excellent experience all around.
- SanikaSanika★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Sep. 22nd
Captain was super kind and professional! Very informative tour and highly recommend
- RhodaRhoda★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jun. 05th
Captain Andy is completely chill and was ready for us w speakers, ice and a fridge and glasses and blankets if it got cold. (It didn’t.) It was a balmy June night; and since we opted to skip going up to the Statue of Liberty, we got to see much more of the harbor and around Manhattan’s tip to the east side. Relaxing and beautiful. Even though I’ve lived in NYC for 45 years, I loved the ride as much as my Houston and Long Island guests. Book him now!
- DalalDalal★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jul. 02nd
What an amazing experience with Captain Randy! It was my husband’s 40th birthday and he truly made it a memorable one. On top of him being a super nice person he made sure that we got everything we needed during the trip to be comfortable. I can’t thank him enough and we will sure be back!
- MichaelMichael★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)May. 11th
Amazing trip. Andy is a great captain and made our group feel really comfortable.
Would recommend
- ElizabethElizabeth★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Aug. 24th
It’s amazing 🤩
- MalteMalte★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jul. 05th
Beautiful sail!
- MominaMomina★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Sep. 04th
Captain Andy was a very welcoming and gracious host. He accommodated my guests and I on such short notice, with full preparations of everything we could have needed and more. His boat is probably the best I’ve ever been on - it has so much character, personality and warmth, and Captain Andy has set it up so very beautifully.
To say it was a joy to sail with him is an understatement. My friends and I cannot wait to return.
- KelseyKelsey★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jul. 28th
We had a fabulous time on the boat. Everything was customized, and my family really enjoyed the day. We will absolutely be booking again!
- ArmancArmanc★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jun. 01st
- MariyaMariya★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jul. 27th
Was incredible experience! Captain Andy was so accommodating and gave exceptional service! Boat was so beautiful and overall it just perfect celebration of birthday! Highly recommend for any occasion or just have fun time!
- JoanneJoanne★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Aug. 17th
Fantastic night! Could not have asked for a better boat, captain/crew. It was a perfect experience and loved every minute of it. We will definitely be back for another sail with Captain Andy and his beautiful boat.
- ChelseaChelsea★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Oct. 11th
We booked a 2 hour sunset cruise with Captain Andy for a bachelorette party. Everything was absolutely perfect! The boat was beautiful, clean and extremely comfortable! We all had a great time and would 100% book with Captain Andy again. Great way to see the city! Hope to do it again soon!
- DeepaliDeepali★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Aug. 03rd
We had a fantastic time on the boat with Captain Andy! He was super hospitable and continually ensured we were comfortable and had everything we needed during our trip. A perfect boat for a group upto 6 people :)
- BrianaBriana★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jun. 21st
Andy and Anthony were excellent! Very accommodating for our mom’s birthday! Stopped so we could take pictures, gave knowledgeable facts about the sights, and made everyone feel safe and welcomed! Would highly recommend booking for a trip! Thank you both!
- lucas salomonlucas salomon★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)May. 29th
Awesome!!
- JosephJoseph★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 stars (5/5)Jun. 05th