Women at the Helm: Inspiring Female Boaters You Should Know
Women at the Helm: Inspiring Female Boaters You Should Know
The marine industry has long been dominated by men, but tides are changing—and we’re proud to be part of that shift. As two women running Essential Marine Services, we know firsthand the challenges of carving out space in this world. But we also know the strength, grit, and grace women bring to the helm—whether behind the wheel of a business or a boat.
This post is a celebration of trailblazing female boaters—past and present—who inspire us to keep going, keep growing, and keep breaking waves.
1. Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz – The First Woman to Sail Solo Around the World
In 1978, Polish sailor Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz became the first woman to circumnavigate the globe solo. Her journey took 401 days and over 31,000 nautical miles—accomplished without the aid of GPS or satellite communications. She proved that courage, skill, and resilience know no gender.
2. Tracy Edwards – Breaking Barriers in Competitive Sailing
Tracy Edwards rewrote the rules in 1989 when she led the first all-female crew in the Whitbread Round the World Yacht Race. Despite widespread skepticism and sponsorship challenges, her team finished second in their class—and changed the face of professional sailing forever.
3. Tania Aebi – Youngest Woman to Sail Solo Around the World (At the Time)
At just 18, Tania Aebi set out to sail solo around the world. With minimal sailing experience, she completed the journey in 1987 after two and a half years at sea. Her memoir Maiden Voyage continues to inspire a new generation of adventurous women.
4. Liz Clark – Modern-Day Nomad and Ocean Advocate
Surfer and sailor Liz Clark has been living aboard her sailboat Swell since 2005, traveling the world while raising awareness about marine conservation. Her story reminds us that boating isn’t just about adventure—it’s about protecting what we love.
5. Nzingha Prescod – Championing Diversity on the Water
As a sailor and fencing Olympian, Nzingha Prescod advocates for diversity in both sports. Through initiatives like The Magenta Project, she helps mentor young women and women of color in sailing, ensuring the helm is open to everyone.
Why It Matters to Us
Reading these stories fuels our passion. We see ourselves in these women—the same determination, resourcefulness, and drive. Running a marine service business as women hasn’t always been easy. But with every engine we repair, every customer we help, and every wave we ride, we’re reminded that we belong here. Just like they do. Just like you do.
To every woman out there: chase your dreams boldly, no matter the industry, no matter the odds. You don’t have to fit into a specific box or follow a path someone else laid out for you. We can do it all. There is room for all of us to rise, to lead, to create, and to build lives—and businesses—that reflect our passions. Whatever your dream is, it’s valid, it’s possible, and it’s waiting for you to take the helm.
Inspired? Drop us a message or follow us on Instagram to share your story or shout out a female mariner who’s inspired you. Let’s keep lifting each other up, one wave at a time.
— The Women Behind Essential Marine Services