Maryline O'Shea

Sailboat Skipper
Chanceuse

A smile from ear to ear adorned Maryline’s face when she first saw her boat. Working for a yachting company, she recognized the value in the boat when she saw it for sale, and purchased it without hesitation from a continent away. With the support of coworkers and friends, she brought the boat to Annapolis after refitting it to match her needs. Maryline’s quick confidence, a trait with her since childhood, enables her to fill the dream of being a captain. She excitedly entered as a skipper/owner for the Women’s Regatta within a year of being a boat captain. She gathered mentors and crew then prepared for the regatta as though she’s been planning races for decades. Off-shore races have only added to her enthusiasm for sailing. Her boat now hosts charters while she logs hours to get her captain’s license. This is all from a girl who grew up on a farm in France and who, years ago, found her boater girlfriends intimidating. After making the decision to learn, she took sailing classes on the side to start. This gave her the skillset to feel that she belonged on the water. Pride in her ability, an eagerness to learn, and quick decision-making ability all mean that Maryline can reach the ends of the Earth if she wishes. With the freedom of the water, there are no limits.