Meet the dedicated crew who make your St Pete Sails experience unforgettable

Captain Richard Darling and Mate Suzanne Schindler

Fun, not formal! — that’s the way we sail.

Together, Richard and Suzanne bring thousands of sea miles, years of charter experience, and an easy-going island attitude to every trip aboard Althea. Long before anchoring in sunny St. Petersburg, they spent several seasons working side-by-side in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands aboard a 58-foot catamaran, hosting families and adventure-seekers on unforgettable Caribbean getaways. There, Suzanne filled the dual role of Mate and Chef, while Richard captained the vessel with guest safety and comfort always top priorities.

Richard holds a 200-ton USCG Master’s License, backed by nearly 20 years of yacht chartering in waters from Maine to the lower Caribbean Islands. His passion for all-things sailing runs deep — you’ll feel it the moment the sails fill and the boat heels gently into the breeze.

Suzanne, a 50-ton USCG Master, brings equal heart and energy to every charter. St. Pete is home, but adventure carried her away for a five-year sabbatical sailing from the Sunshine City down the Caribbean chain and back up to St. Thomas — where she crossed paths with Richard, began crewing, and found a shared love for life on the water. When she’s not trimming sails, you’ll find her in the galley creating fresh, flavorful meals or staying active on and off the boat.

Now settled happily in downtown St. Petersburg, Richard and Suzanne are thrilled to welcome guests aboard and share the beauty of Tampa Bay — the skyline, the sea breeze, the dolphins, the sunsets… all the things that made them fall in love with this city.

Whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned salt, they’ll make sure you feel right at home.

Come sail with us — the sun is bright, the vibe is light, and with St Pete Sails, it’s always Fun, not formal!