Jon Henry - Pacific Cruising Coach

‘Here to help you make good cruising decisions’

Heading offshore this season or sometime in the future? Feeling overwhelmed with the preparations or need some extra support?

My name is Jon Henry.

I have over 60,000nm of sailing experience.  Racing both shorthanded and crewed as skipper in major offshore and coastal yacht races in all types of vessels. 

Cruising from Europe to New Zealand, plus throughout the South Pacific, both as skipper and crew assisting others.

I am currently a Yachting New Zealand Safety inspector and have assisted many sailors with preparing their vessels for their offshore voyages.

 In 2020 I was awarded the “YNZ Official of the Year” for services to sailing.

I can assist in many ways. From selecting the perfect boat, or setting up of your existing vessel. I have many contacts within the NZ marine industry that I can provide to arrange work on your boat, plus contacts that have sailed Asia if that’s your next challenge.  All to help you to plan your next adventure.

I charge $1600.00 NZ + GST (if applicable) for up to 12 hours face to face (Auckland region) or online assistance in negotiated sessions.

Other areas and further assistance by negotiation.

Island Cruising members get a 10% discount.

My services include, but are not limited to:

1. Initial consultation

I will learn more about your vessel, your sailing experience and your sailing goals for the future. We will discuss your timeline, whether your vessel is suitable for your needs and create a plan to prepare you, your crew and the vessel for the adventures ahead.

2. Vessel Assessment

I will spend time on board going through all your systems and making suggestions on ways you can make the passage easier & safer and all the safety equipment required to meet the IVC standard.

3. Communication

Advice on setting up your onboard communication systems - Starlink, IridiumGO, SSB, Spot tracker, InReach, Datahub, Cellular Router.

4. Documentation

Guidance for vessel registration and inward/outward paperwork along the way & Insurance,

5. Navigation

I can help you formulate a passage plan and give you tips on an itinerary while in the Islands.

6. Provisioning

I can create a plan for your meals on the initial voyage, and what to stock your boat with prior to departure.

7. Weather Routing

I can also assist with weather routing and departure planning

Optional extras

8. Crew Training

I can spend 24 hours (minimum) sailing on board with you and your crew to formulate safe procedures for watch keeping, man overboard, firefighting, helming, sail handling, reefing & all the drills as required in the IVC.

9. Coaching

I can provide coaching sessions on a casual basis on your boat to help build up knowledge and experience.

Or, I can either help you skipper the boat on the passage, or arrange to have it delivered to your destination