For Rose Ann Points, sailing isn’t just a family activity – it’s a family business. That’s because when you book a luxury sailing experience with St. Augustine Sailing, you’re in the capable hands of a family that has lived and breathed the salt air for most of their lives.
After years of making her family at home living on boats, Points has built that strong family bond into her business.
“It wasn’t until my mid-20s that I started spending time on boats,” said Points, co-owner, captain and broker at St. Augustine Sailing. “At first, it was a 27-foot Bayliner Cabin Cruiser that my kids and I would take out on the weekends when we lived in Vancouver, Washington.”
Then, when Points was 30, the family decided to sell everything they owned and buy a sailboat to live the life of adventure. They purchased a 41 Morgan Out-Island ketch (a double-masted sailboat) named Tranquility and moved aboard for 13 years.
“They loved it,” she said. “It was just the most wonderful time, giving my kids that connection to the sea. And we’ve never looked back!”
Points’ children are all actively involved in the business. Her daughter Toste Munoz serves as the main point of contact for passengers looking to book an excursion. Her two sons also help man the helm, so to speak. Derk Burkin is a photographer and videographer who documents the myriad momentous occasions on board. Lance Burkin manages St. Augustine Sailing’s extensive fleet of sailing yachts, keeping them afloat and in tip-top shape.
Lance’s wife, Amberle, creates the delectable bites on-board, curating an extensive menu of options, including lush charcuterie boards and perfectly-paired beverages.
Rose Ann’s husband, Chuck Points, is not only the co-owner of St. Augustine Sailing. He’s a steady, solid presence, overseeing all sailing operations and serving as the business’s main delivery captain. He is also an award-winning ASA instructor who has guided numerous individuals on their path to becoming sailing instructors.
“Chuck actually came in to rent a boat, before I was involved with the business,” said Points. “He got to talking to the previous owners and it turned out he had a captain’s license and a whole lot of experience on the water. He’s sailed all over the world — the breadth of his knowledge is so impressive! So they hired him. And that’s how we met — I walked through the door and there he was. It makes this business even more meaningful for us because it’s part of our love story.”
St. Augustine Sailing Enterprises is a luxury adventure experience that offers a variety of sailing excursions to fit any occasion and budget. They offer private charters that can be customized to create a unique experience. Popular options include private chef-prepared meals, premium beer and wine upgrades and overnight adventures.
St. Augustine Sailing also offers sailing lessons and membership in SailTime, a club that allows members to rent a boat at franchises around the country. For more information on the programs, go to sta-sail.com.
