Early Roots and Education
Francis Mortimer grew up on the rugged coast of Maine, where salt-sprayed winds and lobster boats were woven into daily life. From a young age, he was drawn to the water not just the thrill of leaving the shore, but the quiet power of currents and changing tides. Although he never pursued a traditional college degree, he completed a vocational maritime program focused on seamanship and offshore navigation. His education was a mix of hands-on training aboard local charter boats and late-night readings in marine engineering and weather forecasting.
Professional Journey
After his maritime studies, Francis worked for several years as a deckhand and junior mate on a mix of small sailing charters and regional ferry routes. He later moved into roles with more responsibility first as a crew trainer on classic sailing schooners, then as a logistics coordinator for a boutique expedition tour operator. These experiences navigating everything from mechanical hiccups to passenger comfort in rough seas taught him the art of both practical seamanship and clear communication.
Shift Toward Writing
While managing operations for the expedition company, Francis found himself drawn to the recurring questions from guests: How do currents form? What’s the best way to care for a kayak? How does boat maintenance differ across climates? He began drafting answers for internal guest guides simple, reassuring, and thoroughly practical.
Over time, he realized he wanted to reach a wider audience, offering the kind of straightforward, confidence-building knowledge that had helped even seasoned travelers.
Mission of the Blog
In early 2025, Francis launched ngcruise.com, a blog built around the spirit of accessible, accurate maritime insight. His posts explore a range of hands-on topics selecting the right kayak for coastal paddling. Even prepping a sailboat for extended trips, handling marine weather systems, and decoding boat terminology for curious beginners. Everything he writes is rooted in real-world experience and delivered in clear, friendly prose. His aim is to turn uncertainty into clarity and empower readers from landlubbers to seasoned hobbyists to enjoy and understand life on the water.
The Person Behind the Words
Francis now lives in a mid-sized coastal town half-urban, half-harbor where his mornings begin with a paddleboard glide across still water. He collects vintage nautical charts and maintains a small workshop where he restores old wooden kayaks. Outside of writing, he’s active in local maritime safety workshops and volunteers as a dockside mentor. Guiding newcomers through basic boating safety and etiquette. His blog is not just a repository of advice it reflects a lived ethos, where clarity, connection, and calm on the water go hand in hand.