At Outside Hilton Head, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. All of our captains are U.S. Coast Guard licensed and bring proven, certified experience in operating commercial vessels. In addition, Outside captains are more than just skilled boat operators; they’re also local experts and naturalists who love sharing their knowledge of the Lowcountry’s unique environment. Our limited capacity allows each passenger the opportunity to speak one-on-one with our knowledgeable captains and we encourage all guests to ask questions of their own.
Name:
Patrick Vereen
Hometown:
Camilla, GA
How long have you been a captain?
2 years, I’ve been operating boats since I was 9-years old
How long have you been with Outside?
1 year
What type of work did you do before becoming a captain at Outside?
Dog breeding. Hunting land management. Landscaping. Flooring.
What you like best about the job of being an Outside captain?
The wonderful staff.
What are some of your go-to area recommendations for guests asking your advice?
Lincon & South Brewery, Tacos las Brisas, River Street in Savannah
What are your favorite things about living in the Lowcountry?
Good neighbors and a great church
Anything else fun or interesting about you that you’d like to add?
My dog “Champ” rides with me on almost all my trips and guests love him. He’s a yellow lab that’s skilled in paddleboarding and retrieving just about anything from the water including people! If your hat blows off, he’ll get it back for you.
Name:
Bayard Huggins
Hometown:
Bishopville, SC
How long have you been a captain?
3 years.
How long have you been with Outside?
Two years.
What type of work did you do before becoming a captain at Outside?
I’ve managed different aspects in the Food and Beverage Industries from 5 diamond to dive bars.
What you like best about the job of being an Outside captain?
Every day I’m on the water it’s like church with Mother Nature. The camaraderie with my colleagues is like no other.
What are some of your go-to area recommendations for guests asking your advice?
The true essence of the Lowcountry is taking a boat ride through a tidal creek. It’s ok to get lost. Make a stop on Daufuskie Island for its character and charm. Try some Devil Crabs and May River Oysters. You must check out Shark Tooth Island to chase the adrenaline high of finding a Megalodon Tooth. The best place to have a picnic is on Page Island.
What are your favorite things about living in the Lowcountry?
Mother Nature carved out a slice of heaven when she created the Lowcountry. The history and cuisine are amazing. You just cannot beat good olde southern hospitality.
Anything else fun or interesting about you that you’d like to add?
I’m a resident of Daufuskie Island. You’ll most likely catch me on my days off on the water, either I’m heading over to Daufuskie Island or Shark Tooth Island.
Name:
Dean Hager
Hometown:
Haddon Township, NJ
How long have you been a captain?
Boating since I was 12 years old, now doing it professionally since 2024.
How long have you been with Outside?
Since 2024
What type of work did you do before becoming a captain at Outside?
I was a Business General Manager working for a large international business.
What you like best about the job of being an Outside captain?
I love the people. After retiring early I realized the one thing I really missed about work was the interaction with people and being a captain gives me a chance to meet and entertain new people every day. It’s also great to work with a close-knit group of like-minded and outdoorsy people!
What are some of your go-to area recommendations for guests asking your advice?
Mitchelville Freedom Park / Fish Haul Beach is an amazing gem for any history or nature lover. Birding at the Ibis Pond Rookery (Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge) in spring is an amazing experience.
What are your favorite things about living in the Lowcountry?
The Salt Marsh!
Anything else fun or interesting about you that you’d like to add?
Life is short, find a way to do what you love to do!
Our captains are passionate about showcasing the best of Hilton Head outdoor activities, ensuring you have a memorable and enriching experience. And with CPR and First Aid certifications, you can relax knowing your adventure is in the hands of a prepared and capable crew. Plus, our small group sizes ensure that every guest has a personalized experience, and your captain can customize the tour to fit the interests and preferences of the group on board.
Interested in learning more about who’ll be guiding you on your adventure through the Lowcountry? Reach out to Outside Hilton Head with questions.