Our Story

Sailing runs in the blood...literally. At the tender age of eight years old, Phinehas set sail with his family of seven. They had just sold their home in Washington, D.C., and now welcomed their new life of living on a catamaran. For over three years they sailed up and down the East Coast, from Maryland down to the Bahamas. Phin and his four siblings homeschooled on the boat, learned to master the skill of sailing, and adventured around the Abacos. 

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These three years marked Phin. They were some of the most precious days of his childhood. Learning to live ashore was doable, yet he yearned for the ability to live back on the catamaran with his family.

 

The Abacos, Bahamas remained a common thread throughout the rest of his adolescence and into adulthood. Every year his family's business, The Sailing Academy, would take a catamaran down for their Floatilla for two weeks. It kept the heartbeat of the Bahamas alive in Phinehas, as well as maintaining special relationships with those on the island who have watched him grow up.

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Things unexpectedly changed during hurricane Dorian, the destructive hurricane that decimated a majority of the island in 2019. Phinehas felt a conviction to travel down and help the people that he loves so dearly. For four months he lived on their family's yacht, helping rebuild homes and churches. One thing that really marked that time was the absolute hope and joy the Bahamians had. Even in a time of such devastation, the Lord was so present. 

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Shortly after moving back to the States, he began dating his now wife, Elizabeth. The first place he wanted to take her was the anchor location of his heart: the Abacos. So, for their honeymoon, she was able to visit every shop, person, and place that was special to Phinehas. During their honeymoon, it seemed clear that there was more for their family on this island. 

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Fast forward to 2026, the birth of Ecco Family Charters! Ecco is short for "Ecclesia", which in Greek means "assembly" or "called out ones". This term is used in the Scriptures as the assembling of believers. Phinehas and his wife believe that the Lord will use Ecco Family Charters to gather believers, and specifically families, to bring connection and refreshment through these vacations. 

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With over two decades of history in the Abacos and over a decade of Captain experience, this Bahamas charter is unique among the rest. Phin desires to provide the same experiences to families that is etched in his heart from childhood. Plus, he knows the island like the back of his hand, so the week truly feels like you are a local.