Our Story
It was a sunny summer morning in 2021, and I was craving a surf sesh, but the waves were flat as pancakes. BUMMER. I started looking into other ways to catch a wave. I grew up surfing off the back of my dad's boat wake, and figured I'd find a charter around for an experience like that. To my surprise, there were NO watersport charters available in the Jersey Shore area. (Cue lightbulb moment).
Well, if I couldn't find a wave, I'd make one! I quickly got to work finding the best wake boat on the market, and Salty Dog was quickly born. My childhood was filled with amazing memories boating with my family, and I'm so stoked I can now share that passion and experience into this business. We are now the first and only wakesurfing charter on the Jersey Shore, and it's been nothing but fun since. There's truly no better way to spend a summer day than out on the water, and we love being able to give that experience.
Our Mission
We are here to share the joy of watersports and love for the outdoors to shredders of all ages! Join us for wake surfing, wakeboarding, water skiing and tubing sessions at both beginner and advanced levels. Combining our crew’s years of experience and world class equipment, your group is sure to have a safe and epic day on the water.
Safety
Your safety is our highest priority. Everything from our procedures to equipment has been thought through with your safety in mind.
Respect
We strive to navigate our business with respect for our passengers, riders, crew, the environment, wildlife and all others sharing the rivers and oceans.
Fun
Whether you want to relax with friends or learn to wake surf, we want you to have the best time ever! At the end of the day, having fun is what we're all about.
The Boat
The Salty Dog is a sea blue 2023 Axis T250, one of the most premier vessels in the industry for watersports and one of the cleanest for emissions (rated “Level Five Extremely Clean” by the state of California). The 25' boat can seat up to 18 (but only 6 are allowed on a charter per NJ Coast Guard Regulations). It includes cupholders, storage, blue tooth speakers, a shaded canopy, and makes waves that will have you frothing!
Meet The Crew
The Salty Dog Crew are like-minded friends who have love for the ocean, fun, and adventure. We are all New Jersey locals and grew up enjoying the beauty of our beaches and rivers. We each have our own set of skills and experience to offer guidance to ensure you have the time of your life. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, we deliver personalized service, tailored to your skill level and preferences.
Ryan
Founder & Captain
Ryan grew up water skiing and surfing the greater Sandy Hook Bay area. His passion for watersports and love for the Jersey Shore inspired him to share the experience with others through Salty Dog Charters. Ryan is a 6 year US Veteran.
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Certified US Coast Guard Captain
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Certified in CPR/AED basic life support through the AHA
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Boat License
Stance: Goofy
Favorite Hobby: Surfing
Body of Water: Ocean
Meal: Catch of the Day
Local Restaurant: 2nd Jetty
Surf Playlist: Sugar Shack
Favorite Trip: Caribbean Islands
Sea Animal: Dolphin
Day Job: Powerwash Company Owner & Vacation Home Renter
Sean
Co-Captain
Sean is an officer in the US Navy Reserves with experience navigating massive ships. He spends several months of the year voyaging across the seas, but when he's on land he enjoys anything that gets him outdoors: skiing, hiking, biking, etc.
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US Coast Guard Masters License
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Certified in CPR/AED basic life support through the AHA
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Boat License
Stance: Regular
Hobby: Mountain Biking
Body of Water: Lake
Meal: Steak
Local Restaurant: Off the Hook
Surf Playlist: Yacht Rock
Favorite Trip: Guatemala
Sea Animal: Shark
Day Job: Longshoreman
Emily
Mate & Marketing
A NJ local, Emily uses a Nikon D30200 to capture your day so you can spend less time on your screen and more time having fun and being present! She loves taking fun videos for Salty Dog's social media, so if you catch her filming, throw a shaka!
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Certified in CPR/AED basic life support through the AHA
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Boat License
Stance: Regular
Hobby: Travel
Body of Water: River
Meal: Sushi
Local Restaurant: One Willow
Surf Playlist: Taylor Swift
Favorite Trip: Japan
Sea Animal: Blue Whale
Day Job: Event Manager
Chris
Co-Captain, Surf Coach
Chris is an experienced marina man who lives in his boat and school bus with his dog, Bear. Growing up surfing the Jersey Shore, he will be sure to reveal all the tips and tricks to get you shredding. When not in NJ, catch him skiing in the Tetons.
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Certified US Coast Guard Captain
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Certified in CPR/AED basic life support through the AHA
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Boat License
Stance: Goofy
Hobby: Skiing
Body of Water: Ocean
Meal: Burritos
Local Restaurant: Proving Ground
Surf Playlist: Grateful Dead
Favorite Trip: Hawaii
Sea Animal: Octopus
Day Job: Marina Manager
Drop us a Line
Salty Dog Watersports
1 Atlantic St, Highlands, NJ 07732
+1 732-614-9813