Sailboat

Captain

Trevor Searns

USCG Captain

ASA Instructor

Professional

Experience

From discovering sailing at age 12 to becoming a licensed captain

with extensive offshore and international experience

Early Start

I began sailing at age 12 at Sail Buffalo during the school’s early years. By 14, I was teaching sailing at the same program, discovering that I enjoyed sharing knowledge and helping others learn to sail safely and confidently. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to the growth of Sail Buffalo’s programs alongside many dedicated instructors and staff.

Age 12-14

From student to instructor at Sail Buffalo

Professional Credentials

At 18, I earned my USCG Captain’s License and ASA 201 Instructor’s License. These certifications represent a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism on the water.

USCG

Captain’s License

ASA 201

Instructor License

Ocean Experience

At 19, I completed a 9,000 nautical mile transpacific sailing trip lasting 4 months. This voyage provided valuable offshore experience and included completion of IYT Yachtmaster 200 Ton theory and practical assessments. The certificate was not issued due to ENG-1 medical timing.

9,000

Nautical Miles

4

Months

IYT 200 Ton Yacht Master

Theory & Practical Completed

International Waters

Experience throughout the Caribbean and some experience in the Mediterranean

Teaching Experience

For 11 years, I’ve been actively sailing and teaching. I spend my summers (May through September) in Buffalo, New York, continuing my work with Sail Buffalo to provide sailing instruction and charters. The school has grown into a highly sought-after program, and I’ve had the opportunity to teach thousands of students ranging from age 7 to their late 80s.

Summer Base

Buffalo, NY • May – September

Sail Buffalo

Advanced Instructor Certifications

In October 2025, I completed an intensive week of advanced training in San Diego, California, earning six new ASA certifications including multiple instructor-level credentials. This significantly expanded my teaching capabilities across coastal navigation, bareboat operations, and multihull vessels.

October 2025 • San Diego, CA

6 New Certifications

ASA 105

Coastal Navigation

ASA 114

Cruising Catamaran

ASA 203

Advanced Coastal

Instructor

ASA 204

Cruising Endorsement

Instructor

ASA 205

Offshore Passages

Instructor

ASA 214

Catamaran Cruising

Instructor

The Next Chapter

Currently, I’m transitioning towards full-time sailing and planning an ambitious goal: completing a full circumnavigation before I turn 30. This journey represents the culmination of years of preparation, training, and offshore experience.

~95,000

Nautical Miles Planned

Full Circumnavigation Route

Pursuing Full-Time Sailing

Preparing for extended offshore passages and building towards a complete voyage around the world

30K+

Nautical Miles

12

Years Sailing

10

Years Teaching

1000+

Students Taught

Professional Certifications

USCG Captain’s License

Professional Maritime Authority

IYT 200 Ton Yacht Master

Theory & Practical Completed

ASA Instructor

Multiple Disciplines

ASA Instructor Certifications

ASA 201

Instructor

ASA 203

Instructor

ASA 204

Instructor

ASA 205

Instructor

ASA 214

Instructor

Professional

Services

Comprehensive sailing services tailored to your needs and experience level

Daytime Charters

Personalized sailing experiences along the beautiful coastline. Default 3-hour duration, customizable to your needs.

Duration: 3 hours (adjustable)

Rate: $75/person/hour

Minimum: $250

Sunset Cruises

Experience the magic of sailing as the sun sets over the water. Perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.

Duration: 2-3 hours

Rate: $100/person/hour

Minimum: $350

ASA Sailing Classes*

Professional sailing instruction through Sail Buffalo. Offering ASA 101, 103, 104, and 105. Each course runs for 3 days with hours varying by curriculum.

Duration: Course dependent

Rate: See Sail Buffalo

Website: sail-buffalo.org

Private Lessons

One-on-one sailing instruction tailored to your skill level and goals. Pricing varies based on curriculum.

Duration: Flexible

Rate: ~$75/person/hour

Notes: Varies by curriculum

Maritime Consulting

Expert advice on boat purchasing, maintenance planning, safety preparation, etc. Remote consultations via email or phone are available.

Duration: As needed

Rate: Project Dependent

Notes: No cost for remote

Currently Unavailable

Boat Deliveries

Professional vessel delivery services with complete care and attention to your boat’s safe transport.

Duration: Passage dependent

Rate: Custom Quote

Price: Vessel & Distance dependent

*

ASA Sailing Courses (101, 103, 104, and 105) are booked through Sail Buffalo. While I serve as the primary instructor, courses may occasionally be taught by other qualified instructors.

To guarantee instruction with me personally, please book a private lesson.

Booking Information

Charter Details

  • All charters include professional captain and safety equipment
  • Flexible scheduling based on weather and availability
  • Food and beverages available upon request**
  • Custom itineraries can be arranged

Booking Process

  • Contact for availability and custom quotes
  • 50% deposit required to secure booking
  • Weather-dependent rescheduling available
  • Full terms provided upon booking confirmation

Cancellation Policy

  • 48+ hours: Full deposit refund
  • Under 48 hours: No refund
  • Weather cancellations: Full refund or reschedule

** Food and beverage service is available upon request and will be quoted separately based on your preferences and group size.

Client

Testimonials

Real feedback from students and clients

Share Your Experience

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Let's Set

Sail

Ready for a sailing adventure? Get in touch to discuss your needs.

Phone

Base Port

Buffalo, NY

Quick Response

I typically respond to all inquiries within a week. For urgent requests, please call or text directly.