Hi, I'm Mike, and I'm studying for the USCG OUPV License. This campaign is to raise the funds to cover my remaining requirements so I can take the examination and start a new job as a USCG Licensed Charter Captain.

Why fundraise?

I've been out of work since 2020 following the Covid pandemic, and while I have continued looking for a job, I have so far been unable to find one. I have been interviewed several times without a response and a few more where I was told why I was turned down. It's often disheartening, but I haven't let it keep me from moving forward.

Unfortunately it has made it difficult to keep my bills paid, and my family is no longer able to help out as they have been over the last few years. Recently I learned that I have already met some of the requirements to take the USCG OUPV examination, and considering my time around boats and the gulf coast, I found a renewed desire to get back on the water. A Private Charter would allow me to work for myself without having to rely on application after application and interview after interview.

The certification alone might even open doors to work for hire on other vessels, as many bareboat charters exist all along the US Coast line.

Fundraising will allow me to pay for what I need to finish the requirements and take the examination.

Why Charter Captain?

I gained my State Vessel Operators license at 12, after taking the US Power Squadron's ABCs of boating course with my late grandfather. He taught me to sail, and instilled a love of the water in me from a very young age. As a teenager I even learned to navigate on his boat, and cruised from Mississippi's Bay St. Louis to Alabama's Dauphine Island. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my childhood, and I wouldn't trade a thing for that time.

I've been on and around boats most of my life, and I would love the chance to spend more time doing what I love, and making a real living at it.

You can help me get there by joining the campaign, spreading the word, and buying your own Royal Lupalian Yacht Club T-shirt.

What even is the Royal Lupalian Yacht Club?

The RLYC is a bit of an in-gag of my friends. Royal is an online persona of mine in the Furry community, and Lupalia is the fictional nation he comes from, thus the RLYC is the group of folks who have chipped in to help make my dream come true. We're happy to see as many people join us in this endeavor as possible.

With that in mind, I'm happy to be the first to welcome you to the RLYC. Please, bring your friends and family!

What's this about lionfish?

In the waters of Florida, the lionfish is an invasive species, and there are ongoing efforts to eradicate them and protect the native marine life. As a result, Florida wants you to know that the lionfish are in fact free. Please take them!

Lionfish Art by the ever wonderful @TattaDoodles on Telegram.